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Even if you are creative, you may be afraid to test the waters for a story idea. It is usually prudent to feel out your audience before you invest a considerable amount of time and money. This will also make the process less intimidating over time.

There are many writing and general websites that will give you honest opinions of others. They need not be dedicated writing only websites, but it does help to congregate with other writers and get their opinions. After all, writers are some of the most avid readers found anywhere on the planet.

Other writers on websites can also answer questions like, "would you buy this book?" "Were you hooked right away?" "How can I word this better?" "What is a better title?" "What was your overall impression, how did the story flow?" They can also help you proofread and let you know if your writing is "tight" and "smooth."

Some writing websites that will give you peer reviews and ratings are: www.writing.com - you may be pleasantly surprised at how they help along their newbies. Lots of contests, which is also a great way to test the waters for your idea. You can also earn your memberships by reviewing others and entering contests.

www.gather.com - very broad and comprehensive site with many groups. Not just for writers. Not as kind as some other sites.

www.storywrite.com - this is a smaller website so it may take longer to gain interaction.

Any site or program where you have to plunk down a substantial amount of money to join is probably not worth the cost. Try the freebies and low cost sites first. These sites are just the tip of the iceberg. Consult writing magazines for contests, as these are often low cost and there is nothing like a contest to tell you if you have a winning story!

Perform an Internet search for writing websites, as there are literally hundreds of them. You can try them on for size and see what type of interaction they provide. I have only listed the ones that are safer to try out story ideas.

You may also want to try blogging at www.myspace.com or Google's www.blogspot.com and put your idea out there. Ask for comments and suggestions. Do not worry about others stealing your ideas as this is a rarity, and you could also look into a blanket copyright on the "really good ideas" if it will provide more security for you.

Try out your idea on family and friends or also attend some writing conferences and groups in your area. The local university also may have writers workshops and classes. Do not limit yourself in ideas, as the sky is the limit!

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