PatternReview.com is wonderful. Before you sew a pattern, search and find reviews by other sewists who have made the same pattern. Also, they have great contests! It's free but you can buy a subscription if you want more benefits from the site.
i always look there before I buy anything sewing-related, like sewing machines or sergers, too to get opinions from others who have used that brand. I like this forum best though to spend my time!