I've read all the posts on this subject so far and, sorry, Sol, but I don't see the need for this shred group. If an author can't take the heat of unfavorable critiques, they can leave. If reviewers are mean-spirited and vitriolic, they can be removed from the site. And we already have a Fight Club group for members who like to duke it out. As far as I know, the Premium Group does not require "niceties" and "encouragement" from reviewers, though most reviewers will try to find something positive in their critiques. They chose to review it after all when they could have passed on it. Finally, I wouldn't want the Premium Group to get the reputation of the place where reviews aren't "honest."
I don't think anyone is saying the Premium Group's reviews aren't "honest". There are however different ways of stating an honest opinion. If someone says, "Your plot could use some work, but it has potential" or conversely says, "Your plot stinks and you should buy a grammar book and study it before trying to write" they both could be honest opinions, but one might be more readily acceptable for someone new to the game depending on the thickness of their skin so to speak. You currently have all kinds of different groups available and people may join or not join depending upon their preferences. The Shred Group is no different. Just as you say, if an author can't take the heat, they don't have to participate any more than they do in any other group. You in essence argue against your own argument.
Yes, there is the Fight Club and we've had the Shred forum for ages and guess what, they have not significantly impacted the Premium Group in any way as far as I can tell, and certainly not as much as say The Basic Group or other groups which are a part of the site. Personally I don't see any need for any group other than the Premium Group, but as long as we're going to have them (and Sol says we are) then one more which will probably be more useful than most of the others and no one has to join any more than any of the others, then it appears to be a good idea to move the reviewing process to a more thought provoking level for a certain segment of the site. Don't know if I will or not, but no one has to use it just as with any other group. Take care. Vern