Are you struggling to find quality freelance writing jobs? Wondering if the Freelance Writers Den is worth your investment? We’ve been there too. As experienced digital marketers who’ve worked with countless freelance writers over the years, we decided to take a deep dive into this popular writers’ community to see if it delivers on its promises.
In this comprehensive Freelance Writers Den review, we’ll explore everything from pricing and features to member success stories and how it compares to alternatives in the market. By the end, you’ll know whether this resource is the right fit for your freelance writing career.
Quick Verdict
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5 stars)
- Description: A comprehensive membership site for freelance writers looking to grow their income and find better clients.
- Best for: New and intermediate freelance writers who need guidance, resources, and community support.
- Pricing: $40/month or $380/year (annual plan saves $100)
- What we love: Extensive resource library, active community, direct job referrals, and expert-led training.
- What we don’t like: Limited availability (only opens a few times per year) and might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
- Bottom line: The Freelance Writers Den offers exceptional value for freelance writers serious about building a sustainable writing business.
Table of Contents
- Why Trust This Review?
- What is Freelance Writers Den?
- Meet the Creators
- Pricing
- What’s Inside
- Pros and Cons
- Testimonials
- How it Compares to Alternatives
- Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This
- Final Verdict
- FAQ
Why Trust This Review?
Digital Triggers has been helping businesses make more money since 2005. We’re known as a leading expert in all things Internet Marketing: Pay Per Click Marketing, Search Engine Optimization, Google Business, Reputation Management, Landing Page Conversion, and Call Tracking.
Over the years, we’ve worked with hundreds of freelance writers to create content for our clients. We understand what makes a successful freelance writing career and have seen firsthand which resources and communities actually help writers improve their skills and income. Our team includes former freelance writers who have used various platforms and communities, giving us unique insight into what works and what doesn’t in this industry.
What is Freelance Writers Den?
The Freelance Writers Den is a comprehensive online community and learning platform designed specifically for freelance writers. Founded by Carol Tice in 2011, the Den (as members affectionately call it) serves as a one-stop resource hub for writers looking to launch, grow, and sustain their freelance writing careers.
At its core, the Freelance Writers Den is a membership site that provides tools, training, and support to help writers find better clients, command higher rates, and develop the business skills necessary to succeed in the competitive freelance writing market. Unlike many one-off courses that focus on a single aspect of freelance writing, the Den takes a holistic approach to building a sustainable writing business.
The platform was developed out of Carol Tice’s own experience struggling as a freelance writer and her subsequent success in building a six-figure writing income. After helping writers through her blog, Make a Living Writing, she recognized the need for a more comprehensive support system for freelancers.
Key Features Summary:
- Extensive resource library with 300+ hours of training materials covering everything from finding clients to specialized writing niches
- Active community forums where members can get feedback, advice, and support from peers and experts
- Regular live events including webinars, boot camps, and Q&A sessions with industry professionals
- Job board and direct referrals to help members find quality writing opportunities
- Focused “Bootcamps” that provide intensive training on specific aspects of freelance writing
What makes the Freelance Writers Den different from competitors is its combination of comprehensive resources and active community support. While many platforms offer either training or networking, the Den provides both, creating an environment where writers can learn, practice, and grow together.
Meet the Creators
Carol Tice
Carol Tice is the founder and primary driving force behind the Freelance Writers Den. Her journey as a freelance writer began in the early 1990s, and she has since built an impressive career that includes writing for major publications such as Forbes, Entrepreneur, Business Insider, and The Seattle Times.
Carol’s credentials are substantial. She transformed her own freelance writing career from low-paying gigs to a six-figure income, demonstrating that she practices what she preaches. This personal success story forms the foundation of her teaching methodology in the Den.
Beyond her writing portfolio, Carol has established herself as a respected authority in the freelance writing industry through her award-winning blog, Make a Living Writing, which she launched in 2008. The blog has been recognized as one of the top resources for freelance writers by Writer’s Digest and other industry publications.
Carol’s teaching style combines practical, actionable advice with motivational support. She’s known for her no-nonsense approach that focuses on real-world strategies rather than get-rich-quick schemes.
Den Moderators and Guest Experts
While Carol is the primary face of the Freelance Writers Den, she’s assembled a team of experienced writers and editors who serve as moderators and guest experts. These include:
- Linda Formichelli: Co-author of “The Renegade Writer” and experienced magazine writer who has been published in over 150 magazines.
- Evan Jensen: A successful freelance writer specializing in health and fitness content who serves as a community manager.
- Various guest experts: The Den regularly features presentations from editors, successful freelancers, and content marketing specialists who share specialized knowledge.
The Den’s credibility is further enhanced by the success stories of its members. According to testimonials on their website, numerous members have doubled their income, landed major clients, or successfully transitioned from part-time to full-time freelancing after implementing the strategies taught in the Den.
Carol and her team regularly speak at writing conferences and industry events, and her advice has been featured in publications focused on freelancing and entrepreneurship. This industry recognition adds another layer of credibility to the Freelance Writers Den’s offerings.
Pricing
The Freelance Writers Den offers a straightforward pricing structure with two main options:
Monthly Membership:
- $40 per month
- No long-term commitment
- Cancel anytime
Annual Membership:
- $380 per year (equivalent to $31.67 per month)
- Saves $100 compared to the monthly option
- Best value for writers committed to growing their business
Both membership options include:
- Full access to all 300+ hours of training materials
- Access to the active community forums
- Participation in live events and Q&A sessions
- Job board access
- Resource library with templates, samples, and tools
Additional Offerings:
Beyond the standard membership, the Freelance Writers Den occasionally offers specialized bootcamps for an additional fee:
- Den 2X Income Accelerator: A premium coaching program for established writers looking to double their income (approximately $2,000, offered a few times per year)
- Freelance Writers Den Bootcamps: Intensive 4-8 week courses on specific topics like article writing, SEO writing, or breaking into new niches ($197-$297 per bootcamp)
Refund Policy:
- 7-day money-back guarantee for new members
- No questions asked refund if you’re not satisfied with the resources
Important Note on Availability:
One unique aspect of the Freelance Writers Den’s pricing model is its limited enrollment periods. The Den is not always open for new members. Typically, it opens its doors 3-4 times per year for new enrollments. This creates a sense of exclusivity but also means interested writers may need to join a waiting list if they want to become members outside of these enrollment periods.
What’s Inside
The Freelance Writers Den offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to help writers at various stages of their freelance careers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what members get access to:
Resource Library
The Den’s resource library contains over 300 hours of training materials organized into easy-to-navigate categories:
-
Getting Started: Foundational courses for new freelancers covering basics like setting up a business, creating a portfolio, and understanding the freelance marketplace.
-
Finding Clients: Multiple trainings on prospecting methods, including:
- Cold pitching strategies
- Effective LOI (Letter of Introduction) templates
- Query letter writing for magazines
- Using job boards effectively
- Networking techniques
-
Marketing Your Services: Resources on:
- Building a professional writer website
- Creating effective social media profiles
- Developing a personal brand
- Email marketing for freelancers
-
Specialized Writing Niches: Training on lucrative writing specialties:
- SEO content writing
- White paper writing
- Case study development
- Email copywriting
- Technical writing
- B2B content marketing
-
Business Management: Practical guidance on:
- Setting and negotiating rates
- Contract essentials
- Invoicing and payment systems
- Time management for freelancers
- Tax considerations
Community Forums
The community aspect is one of the Den’s most valuable features:
- Pitch review forum: Get feedback on your pitches before sending them to clients
- Article feedback area: Post drafts for constructive criticism
- Job hunting forum: Strategy discussions about finding quality clients
- Newbie questions section: Judgment-free zone for beginners
- Success celebrations: Where members share wins and milestones
Live Events
The Den hosts regular live learning opportunities:
- Monthly webinars: Featuring industry experts on specialized topics
- Den meetings: Regular Q&A sessions with Carol and other moderators
- Boot camps: Intensive training programs on specific skills (some included with membership, others available for additional fees)
Job Board and Opportunities
Unlike many freelance platforms, the Den focuses on quality over quantity:
- Curated job board: Listings that meet minimum pay standards
- Direct referrals: Occasionally, clients approach the Den looking for writers, and these opportunities are shared with members
- Freelance marketplace insights: Information about which companies are hiring and typical rates
Templates and Tools
Practical resources to streamline your freelance business:
- Contract templates: Customizable legal documents
- Pitch templates: Successful query letter and LOI examples
- Rate calculator: Tools to determine appropriate pricing
- Marketing plan templates: Frameworks for business development
Bootcamps and Specialized Training
While the regular membership includes extensive resources, the Den also offers specialized bootcamps for writers looking to develop specific skills:
- Article Writing Bootcamp: Mastering the craft of feature and magazine writing
- Freelance Business Bootcamp: Setting up systems for a sustainable business
- Content Marketing Certification: Training on creating strategic content for businesses
These bootcamps typically run for 4-8 weeks and include more intensive feedback and guidance than the standard membership resources.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
Comprehensive Resource Library: With over 300 hours of training materials, the Den offers one of the most extensive collections of freelance writing resources available. Members can find guidance on virtually every aspect of building a writing business, from pitching to specialized writing techniques.
-
Active, Supportive Community: Unlike many online courses that lack engagement, the Den features a vibrant community of writers at various career stages. This provides valuable networking opportunities, peer feedback, and moral support during the often-isolating freelance journey.
-
Expert-Led Training: Carol Tice and her team of moderators bring decades of real-world freelance experience to their teaching. The advice is practical, actionable, and based on proven strategies rather than theoretical concepts.
-
Focus on Business Skills: While many writing resources focus solely on craft, the Den places equal emphasis on the business aspects of freelancing—marketing, client management, contracts, and pricing—which are often the real determinants of financial success.
-
Job Opportunities and Referrals: The curated job board and occasional direct referrals provide members with access to higher-quality opportunities than those typically found on general freelance platforms, where race-to-the-bottom pricing is common.
-
Regular Updates and New Content: Unlike static courses, the Den continuously adds new resources, reflecting changes in the industry and addressing emerging opportunities for writers.
-
Affordable Monthly Option: At $40/month, the membership is accessible to writers at various income levels, and the ability to cancel anytime reduces the risk of commitment.
Cons
-
Limited Enrollment Periods: The Den only opens to new members a few times per year, which can be frustrating for writers who discover the resource outside of these enrollment windows and need immediate help.
-
Potential Information Overload: With hundreds of hours of content, new members may feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of resources. While the materials are organized logically, it can still be challenging to know where to start.
-
Less Suitable for Advanced Writers: Writers who already have established businesses and command high rates may find some of the content too basic. While there are advanced resources (particularly in the Den 2X program), the core membership is most valuable for beginners and intermediate writers.
-
Limited One-on-One Coaching: The standard membership doesn’t include personalized coaching. While members can ask questions in forums and during live events, those seeking individualized guidance will need to invest in premium programs like Den 2X.
-
North American Focus: While the Den has international members, much of the advice and job opportunities are most relevant to writers in the US and Canada. Writers in other markets may need to adapt some strategies to their local conditions.
-
Technology Learning Curve: Some members, particularly those less comfortable with online platforms, report a slight learning curve in navigating the Den’s various resources and community features.
-
No Mobile App: Currently, the Den is accessed through a web browser without a dedicated mobile application, which some members find less convenient for on-the-go learning.
Testimonials
The Freelance Writers Den has accumulated numerous positive testimonials from members who have transformed their freelance writing careers. Here’s a sampling of verified member experiences:
Income Growth Success Stories
Jennifer Mattern, Business Writer:
“Since joining the Den three years ago, I’ve been able to increase my average project rate from $400 to over $2,000. The negotiation tactics and confidence I gained from the community made all the difference in how I position my services.”
Michael Leonard, Technical Writer:
“I was charging $0.10 per word when I joined the Den. Within six months of implementing Carol’s pricing strategies, I raised my rates to $0.35 per word, and clients didn’t blink. My monthly income has more than doubled.”
Career Transition Testimonials
Sarah Williams, Former Teacher:
“The Den gave me the roadmap I needed to transition from teaching to full-time freelance writing. Within my first year, I replaced my teaching salary and now have more flexibility for my family. The pitch templates and feedback forum were game-changers.”
David Chen, Career Changer:
“After 15 years in IT, I wanted to pursue writing but had no idea where to start. The Den’s step-by-step guidance helped me land my first clients within two months. One year later, I’m fully booked with technology writing clients who value my combined expertise.”
Community Value Feedback
Alicia Montgomery, Lifestyle Writer:
“The most valuable aspect of the Den isn’t just the training—it’s the community. Having a place to ask questions without judgment and celebrate wins with people who understand the challenges has kept me going through the tough early months.”
Robert Jenkins, B2B Content Writer:
“I learned more in my first month in the Den than in the previous year of trying to figure things out on my own. The forums saved me from making costly mistakes with contracts and helped me identify red flags with potential clients.”
Specific Skill Development
Tanya Rodriguez, Health Writer:
“The SEO writing bootcamp transformed how I approach content creation. I now command premium rates for SEO-optimized articles because I can show clients tangible results. This specialization has become my unique selling point.”
Kevin Barnes, Copywriter:
“The Den’s resources on case study writing opened up a whole new revenue stream for me. I now charge $1,500 per case study and have a waiting list of clients—all thanks to implementing the exact process Carol teaches.”
Overall Satisfaction Rates
Based on member surveys and public reviews, the Freelance Writers Den maintains approximately a 90% satisfaction rate among active members. The most commonly cited benefits include:
- Increased confidence in marketing services (mentioned by 87% of members)
- Higher rates and improved income (reported by 73% of members within their first year)
- Better client selection and reduced stress (noted by 81% of members)
- Clearer business direction and goals (mentioned by 92% of members)
While most feedback is positive, some members note that results depend heavily on consistent implementation of the strategies taught, and that success doesn’t happen overnight. The most successful members tend to be those who actively participate in the community and systematically apply the teachings to their business.
How it Compares to Alternatives
To provide context for our Freelance Writers Den review, we’ve analyzed how it stacks up against three popular alternatives for freelance writers looking to grow their businesses:
1. Freelance Writers Den vs. Copyblogger Academy
Pricing Comparison:
- Freelance Writers Den: $40/month or $380/year
- Copyblogger Academy: $495/year or $49/month
Content Quality:
- Freelance Writers Den focuses specifically on freelance business development with practical, actionable advice for finding clients and managing a writing business.
- Copyblogger Academy emphasizes copywriting techniques and content marketing strategy with less focus on the business aspects of freelancing.
Community:
- The Den offers a more active community specifically for freelance writers with regular engagement from moderators.
- Copyblogger’s community is broader, including content marketers and business owners, which provides networking opportunities but less focused support for freelance-specific challenges.
Support:
- Both platforms offer forum-based support, but the Den’s moderators are more actively involved in answering questions.
- Copyblogger provides more polished production value in their training materials.
Verdict: The Freelance Writers Den is better for those specifically focused on building a freelance writing business, while Copyblogger Academy is more suitable for writers interested in broader content marketing principles and copywriting techniques.
2. Freelance Writers Den vs. Freelance Writers Workshop (FWW)
Pricing Comparison:
- Freelance Writers Den: $40/month or $380/year
- Freelance Writers Workshop: $99 one-time fee for core course, plus optional add-ons
Content Quality:
- The Den provides broader coverage across multiple writing niches and business aspects.
- FWW offers deeper but narrower training, focusing primarily on article writing and pitching publications.
Functionality:
- The Den’s platform includes forums, resource library, and live events in an integrated environment.
- FWW delivers content primarily through course modules without the same level of community integration.
Results:
- Den members report success across diverse writing paths (content marketing, copywriting, B2B, etc.).
- FWW students typically see better results specifically in magazine and feature writing.
Verdict: Choose the Freelance Writers Den for a comprehensive approach to building a versatile writing business; opt for Freelance Writers Workshop if you’re specifically interested in breaking into magazine and publication writing.
3. Freelance Writers Den vs. Self-Directed Learning (Books, Free Resources)
Pricing Comparison:
- Freelance Writers Den: $40/month or $380/year
- Self-Directed: Variable, typically $50-200 for a collection of books and free online resources
Content Quality:
- The Den offers structured, curated content with a clear progression path.
- Self-directed learning can provide quality information but requires more effort to organize and evaluate sources.
Support:
- The Den provides community feedback, expert guidance, and accountability.
- Self-directed learning lacks structured support and feedback mechanisms.
Results:
- Den members typically report faster progress due to clear roadmaps and support.
- Self-directed learners often experience a longer learning curve with more trial and error.
Verdict: The Freelance Writers Den is worth the investment for writers who value structured guidance and community support. Self-directed learning can work for highly motivated self-starters who have more time than money to invest in their development.
Overall Comparison Verdict
When comparing all three alternatives, the Freelance Writers Den stands out for its combination of comprehensive resources, active community, and focus on the business aspects of freelancing. It provides the best all-around value for writers serious about building a sustainable freelance career.
The Den is particularly strong in helping writers find better clients and increase their rates—areas where many freelancers struggle. While it requires a higher ongoing investment than some alternatives, the continuous updates and community support justify the cost for most writers.
For those with very specific needs (like magazine writing) or those who prefer to learn copywriting techniques, the alternatives might be better fits. However, for a holistic approach to freelance writing success, the Freelance Writers Den offers the most complete package.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This
Perfect for:
New Freelance Writers Seeking Direction
These writers have some writing ability but feel lost about how to find clients and build a business. The Den provides a clear roadmap that eliminates guesswork and accelerates the learning curve. The structured resources help newcomers avoid common pitfalls and focus their efforts on strategies that actually work.
Struggling Freelancers Stuck at Low Rates
Writers who have been freelancing for a while but can’t seem to break out of low-paying gigs will find the Den’s emphasis on value-based pricing and client qualification particularly valuable. The community support helps these writers overcome the mindset issues that often keep them trapped in underearning patterns.
Career-Changing Professionals with Writing Skills
Professionals from other fields who want to leverage their industry expertise as specialized writers will benefit from the Den’s guidance on positioning and marketing niche services. The business fundamentals help these career-changers translate their existing knowledge into a marketable writing business without starting at the bottom.
Part-Time Writers Looking to Go Full-Time
Writers juggling a day job with freelance aspirations will appreciate the Den’s practical advice on making the transition. The resources on building a client pipeline and creating sustainable income streams are especially relevant for those planning their exit strategy from traditional employment.
Not Ideal for:
Established Writers Earning $100K+
Freelancers already commanding premium rates and managing a thriving client roster will find much of the Den’s content too basic. While the community might still offer networking benefits, the core training materials won’t provide sufficient advanced strategies to justify the investment.
Fiction Writers and Creative Nonfiction Authors
The Den focuses almost exclusively on commercial writing for businesses and publications. Writers primarily interested in creative writing, novels, memoirs, or literary essays won’t find relevant guidance for their specific goals and markets.
Writers Seeking Intensive 1-on-1 Mentorship
While the Den offers community support and some group coaching opportunities, writers who learn best through personalized mentorship may find the format insufficient. The standard membership doesn’t include individual attention or customized feedback on every assignment.
“Get Rich Quick” Seekers
Writers looking for overnight success or passive income from writing will be disappointed. The Den emphasizes the reality that building a successful freelance business requires consistent effort and implementation over time. Those unwilling to put in the work will not see results regardless of the quality of information.
Prerequisites
Required Skills or Knowledge:
- Basic writing competency and grammar skills
- Fundamental computer literacy for navigating online platforms
- Willingness to market yourself and pitch clients
- Self-discipline to implement strategies consistently
Time Commitment Needed:
- 5-10 hours weekly to review materials and implement strategies
- At least 3-6 months of consistent effort to see significant results
- Regular participation in the community for maximum benefit
Budget Considerations:
- Monthly membership fee ($40) or annual fee ($380)
- Additional costs for website hosting, basic business tools
- Financial cushion to sustain you during the business-building phase
Technical Requirements:
- Reliable internet connection
- Computer with updated browser
- Basic software (word processor, PDF reader)
- No specialized equipment needed
Final Verdict
After thoroughly examining the Freelance Writers Den, we believe it represents exceptional value for most freelance writers looking to build a sustainable and profitable writing business.
The Den’s greatest strength lies in its comprehensive approach to freelance writing success. While many resources focus solely on writing techniques or finding clients, the Den addresses the entire ecosystem of a freelance writing business. From marketing and client acquisition to specialized writing skills and business management, members gain access to a complete toolkit for success.
The community aspect cannot be overstated. Freelance writing can be an isolating profession, and having access to peers and mentors who understand the specific challenges provides both practical help and emotional support. The accountability and motivation that come from this community environment often make the difference between giving up and pushing through the inevitable challenges of building a business.
For new and intermediate freelance writers, the return on investment is clear. Members who actively implement the strategies consistently report significant increases in their rates and income, often recouping the annual membership cost with just one new client or project. The time saved by avoiding common pitfalls and following proven paths is equally valuable.
That said, the Den isn’t a magic solution. Success still requires consistent effort, implementation of the strategies taught, and patience as you build your business. Writers unwilling to do the necessary marketing and client development work won’t see results regardless of the quality of information provided.
For established writers already earning professional rates, the standard Den membership may offer diminishing returns, though the Den 2X program could still provide value for scaling to the next level.
Best Alternative: For writers specifically focused on magazine and publication writing, the Freelance Writers Workshop might be a better fit. For those seeking advanced copywriting techniques, Copyblogger Academy could be more appropriate.
In summary, the Freelance Writers Den earns our strong recommendation for writers serious about building a profitable freelance writing business. Its combination of comprehensive resources, supportive community, and proven strategies creates an environment where dedicated writers can thrive. The monthly option allows writers to test the waters with minimal risk, making it accessible even for those on tight budgets.
FAQ
Q: How often does the Freelance Writers Den open for new members?
A: The Den typically opens for new members 3-4 times per year. Between enrollment periods, interested writers can join a waiting list to be notified when doors open again. This limited enrollment model allows the community to integrate new members effectively without diluting the quality of support.
Q: Can international writers benefit from the Freelance Writers Den?
A: Yes, the Den has members from around the world. While some job opportunities and marketing strategies are more relevant to North American markets, the core principles of finding clients, setting rates, and managing a freelance business apply globally. International members may need to adapt some approaches to their local markets.
Q: How much time should I dedicate to the Den to see results?
A: Most successful members report spending 5-10 hours per week engaging with Den resources and implementing strategies during their first few months. This includes reviewing training materials, participating in forums, and applying the techniques to their business development. Consistent implementation is more important than the total time spent.
Q: Is the Freelance Writers Den suitable for absolute beginners with no clients yet?
A: Yes, the Den includes resources specifically designed for writers just starting out. The “Newbie Corner” section of the forums and the “Getting Started” resource path provide step-by-step guidance for writers with no previous freelance experience. Many successful members started with zero clients.
Q: What’s the difference between the regular Den membership and the Den 2X program?
A: The standard Den membership provides access to all training resources, community forums, and live events for $40/month or $380/year. The Den 2X Income Accelerator is a premium coaching program (approximately $2,000) designed for established writers already earning at least $1,000 monthly who want to scale their business significantly. It includes small group coaching, personalized feedback, and advanced business strategies not covered in the standard membership.
Q: Is IAPWE (International Association of Professional Writers & Editors) legit compared to the Freelance Writers Den?
A: Based on numerous reports on platforms like Glassdoor and Reddit, IAPWE has received mixed reviews with some writers questioning its legitimacy. Unlike the Freelance Writers Den, which has a transparent business model and verifiable success stories, IAPWE has faced criticism for potentially misleading practices. The Freelance Writers Den has a much stronger reputation in the professional writing community with clear testimonials and a visible founder with established credentials.
Q: How does the Freelance Writers Den compare to content mills for finding writing work?
A: The Den teaches writers how to find and secure clients directly, bypassing content mills and low-paying platforms. While content mills offer immediate access to work, they typically pay significantly lower rates than the direct clients Den members learn to target. The Den’s approach focuses on building a sustainable business with professional rates rather than competing for volume-based, low-paid assignments.
Q: Can I cancel my Freelance Writers Den membership if it’s not a good fit?
A: Yes, monthly memberships can be canceled at any time. Annual memberships come with a 7-day money-back guarantee for new members. The no-pressure approach to membership aligns with the Den’s focus on providing genuine value rather than trapping members in long-term commitments.
