Donna H.

I have to start this review by saying it's kind of impossible to parse a review of this site. Anybody who reviews it is naturally biased by their experience and their experience is shaped by their own abilities--and nobody believes their own abilities aren't at least good or they wouldn't be writing, right? Dunning Kruger is in full force when it comes to artistic endeavors, and CC is no exception.

That said, I'm a decent writer--as validated by many objective measures including making a living as a professional writer/editor my entire career--but I knew nothing about fiction. And I found people on CC who taught me SO MUCH. I promised to return a crit--at least once--but that I was ultimately looking for mutually beneficial critique partners. In that way, I was able to curate partners who knew more than I did. I finished my novel, which is much better because of these people. I think that writers will find their level; it's the natural way of things.

I will say, too, that I first joined this site in 2009 to put up some short plays. Up until I finished this novel, I never used the paid services because they weren't necessary. Once the novel was done and I had a date with an agent, I leveled up so I could get the most feedback possible before submitting to the agent.

Anyway, you'll get what you give, and you'll improve to the level of your abilities. If you don't have a thick skin, you haven't been writing and receiving feedback long enough. Also, the interface and credit system work amazing well compared to other sites; you can get feedback quickly and from many people, which allows you to find active users who best meet your needs.

I would like more ability to zoom in or out. The image selection is too static.