So I finally found a critical reading group.

[Squinch]

4. Part of what surprises me is that

the process of writing the first, um, thousand drafts was a lot of fun. And as I said I used to write professionally, and have had tons of criticism in that capacity. It never was anything more than part of the job.

But this is so much closer to the bone. It's exactly as you say, baring your soul. I never expected that.

The group is large-ish, and though some are more brutal than others, I think each has made suggestions that have been valuable. But I am not finding this part fun. I am hoping that after a few more critique sessions, I'll get used to it. I can see already that I just have to soldier through for the benefit of the story.

But thank you for the reassurance.

Good luck to you!