You'll have the opportunity to learn from informative presentations by experts in the publishing industry, such as editors and agents. A good variety of choices can be found within the States and also in other countries. Types of groups range from very structured to flexible, and the input can be as critical or purely supportive as you can stand. Shop carefully depending on your needs. If you basically want to test a potential audience for your work, you may try a group that is supportive, offering criticism only as you request it.
Check classifieds, and bulletin boards in cafes and at colleges.
The Complete Guide to Writers Groups, Conferences, and Workshops by Eileen Malone may also be helpful. In order to suspend your audience's disbelief that they are reading fiction, it's wise to draw on personal authority. This practice makes your work credible. Sometimes, research is a good substitute for experience. Identify your favorite authors and try to understand fully what qualities of their work appeal to you most.