Spectrum Writers
London Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers’ Group
Spectrum: the London Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers’ Group is a hybrid online/in-person critique group for writers of speculative fiction, ranging from high fantasy to hard science fiction—and everything in between. We welcome aspiring and published authors working in short story, novel and similar formats.
Established in 2015, Spectrum is a volunteer run, non-profit community group, part of a long tradition of speculative fiction writers in the UK’s capital. We are here to provide a space for science fiction and fantasy authors to find support, build on their skills, and advance in their publishing journey.
Come and workshop your story with us! Improve your craft and build confidence in your work through meeting friendly, diverse writers who cheer each other on with every written word.
What We Do
Critique Meetings
We meet for short story or chapter critiques either in person or on Discord, (usually) once or twice a month. Any Spectrum member can attend, but only full members can submit.
Find out more »
Novel Track Groups
Full Spectrum members can work together in small, curated groups that meet regularly to workshop each others’ novels and help each other improve our craft. Currently accepting applications for the next cohort.
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Annual Contest
Every year, eligible Spectrum members can take part in our short story contest. Half the fun is guessing who wrote which story! (The other half is the actual writing, of course.)
Find out more »
Discord Community
On a day-to-day basis, we chat about writing, events and publishing opportunities on our Discord server—or simply to nerd out about SFF books and media. This is also where our online activities like critiques and other meetings take place.
Write-Togethers
We arrange in-person Write-Togethers in cafés or pubs in London, sometimes with a workshop component for the first hour. We also have an ad-hoc online channel on Discord where we hang out while we work on our writing projects. Find out more »
Events & Opportunities
We organise special speaker events with authors, editors, and agents, both in person and online. Find out more »
Spectrum members also regularly share links to publishing and networking events as well as calls for anthologies and other fiction markets on Discord.
Join Spectrum Writers
Does all of this sound of interest? Come along to a first critique session and see if we’re the right fit for you!
Or if you still have questions, head over to the FAQ page.
Spectrum London News
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Fancy stopping by for a festive drink? Event details inside!
Neither quite one thing or another, the time between Christmas and New Year is a fine opportunity to draw the thoughts of a busy year to a close, and look towards a new year ahead with fresh eyes, new optimism and the up-bubbling of wonderful creative ideas. Spectrum would like to invite those who can…
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2025 Short Story Contest Results
Find out who wrote each story this year, and the top-placing stories in each category (and overall).
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October 2025 Bulletin
Updates from our annual Short Story Contest, welcoming new organisers, and sharing recent news from our members!