While I appreciate this site is only in Beta, am I the only one who's frustrated that we can't create an author's profile or search properly or message each other? And there's no way to raise problems, questions or suggestions with Fictish, no 'Contact Us' and, in fact, no info about who/what Fictish really at all.

So, in the meanwhile, shall I start a thread?

I'm ShortAndSweet. I came upon Fictish by accident as it's not really promoted. I'm female, an early-retired Computer Specialist, an ex-carer and from England - which you may have noticed from my British spelling and my iffy American dialogue - specifically the North-East, Geordieland as we call it.

A decade ago I used to write a lot of fan fiction, so I've done my apprenticeship, but I'm strictly in this for fun only so I don't need any literary criticism just the occasional enthusiastic encouragement if you can manage it. Currently I find I have a lot of time on my hands so I thought I'd give the creative writing another try.

Please feel free to comment. Please also feel free to add your self-introduction to this thread. I don't know whether this sort of 'story' is allowed on this platform but, hey, I might get to hear from a monitor (if there are any).

So I saw this thread and knew I had to join in. My name is Chris and I am an aspiring author but unfortunately for me I am still in highschool working a part time with barely any time to write. Writing has always been a passion of mine and I hope to one day publish a book of my own.

I came here for a few reasons.

1. I want to enhance my writing skills
2. I hope to help someone in the way that others may help me
3. I just so happened to see an opportunity to win a gift card

While the possibility of money is a plus that is not the entire reason. I have always hoped for a platform where I can meet other authors and grow as a person and an author.

As far as me I enjoy writing all kinds of stories. Sci Fi, Fantasy, Romance, you name it. However I have always had that flaw where the main character of every story I write is based off of me for the most part. I always envision I am there doing what I am writing because that's how I imagine it and it is easy for me to write that way. I use writing as a way to escape reality and I hope that even if it is only slightly that I can help out or inspire other writers.