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.
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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.)
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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. This is also where our online activities like critiques and other meetings take place.
Write Togethers
Currently, we have an ad-hoc online channel on Discord where we hang out while we work on our writing projects. Occasionally, members will arrange in-person Write Togethers in cafés or pubs in London.
Events & Opportunities
We organise special speaker events with authors, editors, and agents, both in person and online. Spectrum members also regularly share links to publishing and networking events as well as calls for anthologies and other fiction markets.
Spectrum London News
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2024 Short Story Contest Now Open!
Hear ye, hear ye! The 2024 edition of our Annual Short Story Contest is now declared open! A big thank you to Alex Forbes, winner of last year’s contest, for […]
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!