"I had taken every writing class I could find both online and in-person for over three years, yet I was still floundering around with an unwritten novel in my head. Frustrated and skeptical, I went to yet another class and met Nicole Criona - and everything changed. First Draft Incubator was different. And her one-one-one personal attention was just what I needed. With her kindness and gentle encouragement, before I knew it I had an outline. She was so generous with her ideas and so sure of my ability and our way forward that I believed her. And it worked. Three months later, I had sixty written pages with a clear idea of where I was going. Every week, she helped me hurdle stumbling blocks and climb out of writing bogs that threatened to stop me in my tracks. Now, here I am, sixteen months later with a finished first draft. It is the single biggest personal accomplishment of my life and she is the reason I got here. The joy is real! I cannot thank her enough. Nicole, you were the flashlight in my darkest forest. We did it!!"

Carrie T. - Fledgling Author, soon to be hopefully be published.

If you are a writer who feels discouraged, uninspired, unproductive, and unmotivated, I cannot recommend this challenge enough. Before I took the 15-day challenge I felt crippled by writer's block and disappointed in myself for my lack of productivity. But through a series of relaxing and explorative prompts, the 15-day challenge allowed me to gradually untangle my writer's block, clear my mind, and remember why I love writing. Since I finished it, I now complete a writing prompt almost every day on my own. And instead of looking at that first blank page with dread and doubt, I now see it as an adventure. This challenge will change your attitude about writing for the better and rekindle your passion for the craft. It's more than worth the money. Don't hesitate!

Kaitlyn M.

This is the best writing organization you will find!! I'm from Michigan and contacted Nicole about private coaching in 2015. Our first meeting/consultation was incredible. I felt like we had been friends in a past life. Nicole is genuine and is truly an expert in the craft.

We met via "Zoom" during our sessions, and she allowed me enough time to finish my edits and set up a meeting when I was ready. In terms of experience, she meets you where you are. She listens and edits carefully to fully understand what you need to do in order to move forward. In the sessions, we had a dialogue. She was not preaching to me or lecturing. Her unique ability to explain and teach helped me retain the information she gave me.

I was self-taught until I met Nicole. She helped transform my writing in ways I cannot describe. I am proud to say that in 2016 I published a chapter Nicole helped me edit from my upcoming novel for an impromptu reading. The feedback I received from the audience was magical. Word has spread, and friends are still asking for copies.

As writers, it is up to us to put our best foot forward and own our craft. Nicole helped me find that confidence and own it. Not only does she teach, she believes in you. And to me, that is greater than any lesson someone can offer.

I would recommend LA Writers Group to any writer serious about the art. (I brag about the organization every chance I get)

Nicole S.

Sharing a new testimonial from a First Draft Incubator workshop attendee:

I came to this course with 20-odd pages of tired material, a clichéd main character, and no idea how to map out my novel. Despite having two decades of experience as a magazine features writer, I was stumped on how to organize and sustain compelling long form fiction. Less than six weeks later, I have a complete outline and a solid second take on several important scenes.
If you’re serious about finishing your first draft, sign up for this class. Nicole will be a generous advocate for your work. She'll honor your personal creative process and she will ask you all the hard questions at just the right time.

D.M.

I came to this course with 20-odd pages of tired material, a clichéd main character, and no idea how to map out my novel. Despite having two decades of experience as a magazine features writer, I was stumped on how to organize and sustain compelling long form fiction. Less than six weeks later, I have a complete outline and a solid second take on several important scenes.
If you’re serious about finishing your first draft, sign up for this class. Nicole will be a generous advocate for your work. She’ll honor your personal creative process and she will ask you all the hard questions at just the right time.

D.M.

I’m new to creative writing, and the 15 Day Challenge taught me so much! The daily prompts provided a journey of self exploration, and insight into new ways of bringing a story to life. Having the on-line community was invaluable. Seeing how others handled an exercise, helped me grow even more. I feel inspired to continue writing everyday. Thank you Nicole, for a wonderful experience!!

Frances S.