A Novice Writer’s Battle: How Writing Groups Can Help You Finish Your Manuscript by Iman Llompart
Let’s welcome back Iman Llompart as she shares with us “A Novice Writer’s Battle: How Writing Groups Can Help You Finish Your Manuscript.” Enjoy!
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Most of you are probably aware of Beth Barany and her newsletter, and if you’re reading this post on her page, you definitely should be.
I recently interviewed her. We talked about her background, why she writes, and what keeps her going even during times of confusion, which, believe it or not, still happens despite her long career in fiction writing.
This revelation should offer some comfort to new writers, especially during those moments of despair when you just want to rip your hair out and quit.
Beth Barany: A Creative Foundation
Iman Llompart: Thank you so much for meeting with me today, Beth. To start, could you share a little about your background?
Did you grow up in a family that encouraged reading and creativity?
Beth Barany: Absolutely. Reading was huge in my family from day one. My mom even tells the story of reading Mary Poppins while she was in labor with me!
Both my parents read to me and my siblings constantly. Creativity was a big deal–there were always arts and crafts, cooking projects, and a strong encouragement for imagination.
Iman Llompart: Do you still engage in those creative outlets today?
Beth Barany: Yes, though less frequently.
I still love to cook and I create art–doodles, collages, and paintings. My office is filled with pieces I’ve made.
These days, though, my main creative outlets are writing fiction and doodling.
Iman Llompart: When did you start writing?
Beth Barany: My first story was about our cats, co-written with my brother when I was around eight.
Later, I compiled a little anthology with my siblings and started journaling around age thirteen.
A wonderful creative writing teacher encouraged me early on.
I started my novel Henrietta the Dragon Slayer when I was nineteen–though I didn’t return to it seriously until my thirties.
Writing as a Lifelong Calling
Iman Llompart: Why do you write?
Beth Barany: Writing is how I understand myself and the world.
It’s like dreaming awake–an emotional outlet and a deep creative expression.
Fiction allows me to create worlds and characters that didn’t exist but that I needed to see, especially strong girls and women going on adventures.
Without writing, I honestly feel like half a person. It’s not just something I do–it’s part of who I am.
Dealing with Confusion and Doubt
Iman Llompart: How do you keep going when doubt creeps in?
Beth Barany: Community and accountability partners. I’ve never worked in isolation.
Even now, I rely on critique groups and writing buddies–including my husband–to keep me moving forward.
Having someone waiting for my work makes a huge difference, especially during those messy, confusing middle parts of writing when doubt really hits.
Iman Llompart: Did you ever think about quitting writing altogether?
Beth Barany: Never. I might step away when I’m tired or overwhelmed, but quitting has never crossed my mind.
I love my characters and their stories too much. When things get tough, I know it’s just time for a break–not to give up.
Iman Llompart: Have your fears changed over the years?
Beth Barany: Definitely.
Early on, it was wondering if I was even any good.
Winning an award for Henrietta the Dragon Slayer helped build my confidence.
Now my focus is on making sure the story connects with readers.
Doubts still show up, but they’re easier to manage because I know how to problem-solve my way through them.
Final Thoughts
Beth’s insights surprised and inspired me.
What really stood out was that even after all these years, she still leans on writing groups and accountability buddies to stay motivated.
She didn’t move on from that system–she stuck with it because it worked.
It just goes to show: we all have rituals that help silence the inner critic, that annoying voice telling us our ideas are trash.
And no matter how much experience we gain, finding and protecting those supportive practices is crucial.
When self-doubt creeps in (and it will), it’s those habits that can save your story and your sanity.
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About The Author
Iman Llompart is a Spanish American writer based in Dubai, raised in Mexico, and currently navigating the final stages of the rough draft of an epic fantasy romance novel. Passionate about storytelling and the writing process, Iman understands the struggles that many novice writers face—the self-doubt, the isolation, and the challenge of completing a book. Through blog posts, insights, and personal experiences, Iman seeks to remind fellow writers that they are not alone on this journey.
When not writing, Iman enjoys reading, deep-diving into writing sessions and lessons, and watching book-based shows and movies. Occasionally, she also braves the unpredictable world of dating—an adventure that sometimes feels more daunting than crafting an entire novel. With a love for words and a mission to inspire, Iman hopes to one day share her finished manuscript and continue helping others through the power of storytelling.
