When I first decided that I wanted to try my hand at freelance writing, I thought my only option was querying major magazines in bulk until I got my “big break”. After a lot of research, I found out freelancing could be about so much more than that and I got excited about building my freelancing business. With the help of some fantastic blogs, I’m making my way along this twisted path toward a freelance life. Since I know I’m not the only one to go through this (the blogs I list below are proof of that), I thought I’d share a few of my favorite resources with you. In no particular order, here are eight blogs that I think every freelance writer should have in her reader.

The Freelance Writing Jobs Network
Founded by Deborah Ng, this popular website has grown in leaps and bounds since I first started reading it. You’ll find several blogs that address the different aspects of the freelance writing life, and you don’t want to miss the daily job leads post. Check in every day for invaluable freelance writing information.

Freelance Writerville
This blog is written by several freelancers, including founder and editor Yolander Prinzel. Each writer shares insight on the freelance writing life including topics ranging from getting started and writing well to building your business and staying motivated. [NOTE: Each writer also writes for his or her own blog, and I'd highly recommend you visit each and every one of them.]

The Renegade Writer Blog
From Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell, the authors of The Renegade Writer and The Renegade Writer’s Query Letters that Rock, this blog not only provides regular tips and tricks of the trade, but also offers e-courses, e-books, and other excellent writing resources.

The Well-Fed Writer
While this blog is updated less often than some of the others I’ve listed here, you’ll find excellent advice on building your freelance business and making more money from the author of the popular Well-Fed Writer books, Peter Bowerman.

The Life and Times of a Freelance Writer
I may have only recently discovered Jenn Escalona, but her blog feed was quickly added to my Daily Reads folder. She offers helpful information in every post and in my favorite series, “Specialty Buzz”, Jenn interviews fellow freelancers about their specialties, how they got started, and their advice for others on getting in on the action.

Quips and Tips for Successful Writers
While this blog isn’t solely for writers, Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen offers up her favorite inspirational quotes along with advice on how to reach your goals, whatever they may be. As the tag line says, Quips and Tips is “Where inspirational quotations meet practical life tips, and live happily ever after.” Follow some of the advice on this blog and you’ll be meeting your word count goals in no time!

Writing Roads
Based on her own freelance experience, Julie Roads shares “Thoughts & actions about writing, blogging, social media & marketing – stirred vigorously with dashes of this freelancer’s life.” There’s a lot to be learned from someone who’s “been there and done that”.

There Are No Rules
Brought to you by Jane Friedman, publisher and editorial director of the Writer’s Digest community, you’ll find information on the publishing community and tips for reaching publishing success. [NOTE: Writer's Digest also offers several other blogs that you might find useful. Check them out.]

Whether you’re currently a freelance writer or you’re thinking about taking the leap into the freelance life, there are plenty of blogs out there with advice and information to help you build your business, find clients and improve your freelancing skills. These are just a few of my favorites. If you have any you’d like to share, please leave links to them in the comments. I’m looking forward to discovering more freelance writing blogs!