Beta readers should be used as supplementary feedback to self-editing. This is reader feedback at the story level, ideally from someone who represents your target readership.
Beta reading is perfect for writers who:
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have a finished manuscript
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aren't ready for the bigger financial commitment of developmental editing
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have trouble receiving actionable, timely feedback from their beta readers
My beta reading service includes a full read of your manuscript from my perspective as your reader. I compile a Reader's Report detailing my honest opinions and reactions to your manuscript. The report will include notes on the beginning and ending, plot and pacing, character development, and more.
A beta reader should ideally represent your target readership.
I have a wide range of literary tastes, but here are my
absolute favorite genres:
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historical fiction
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psychological thriller
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romance (any level of spice!)
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fantasy
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memoir
If you don't see your genre on that list, please reach out
and let me know a little about your manuscript.
I wasn't lying when I said I'd read almost anything!
Important Note: This is intended as a supplement to self-editing. No edits or in-manuscript comments are included with this service. Your manuscript will still require professional editing. When possible, I will include references to aid you on your writing journey and recommend next steps.
The Process
1
Discovery
Reach out to start chatting about your project!
2
Intake Form
I will ask you questions about your book and your intended audience to get to know you and your writing better.
3
Contract
We will both sign a contract and you will send your payment by our scheduled date. You will also send me your manuscript and beta reader questionnaire (if you already have one).
4
Beta Read + Reader Report
I will read through your manuscripts, taking notes while I read. I will then compile my notes into a Reader's Report and answer your beta questions.
5
Author Review
Upon receipt of your completed Reader's Report, you can review it and ask me for clarification
(if needed).
6
Follow-Up
We can talk about recommended next steps or any questions you still have.
FAQ
What is the difference between beta reading and developmental editing?
Beta reading is feedback from the perspective of your target readership. It involves gut reactions to the elements of your story.
Developmental editing is feedback at the story level from a professional editor. This type of editing is very detailed. Developmental editors might make a lot of suggestions for rewriting, but keep in mind that it is subjective.
Choosing between a beta reader and a developmental editor will often come down to price.
Why should I pay you if I can find free beta readers?
If you have a reliable circle of beta readers (friends who offer constructive criticism, critique partners or writer friends you swap manuscripts with, etc.) then by all means, please stick with them!
Unfortunately, many authors struggle to find beta readers who say more than "I don't like this character." Or, even worse, people who ghost them after agreeing to beta read.
Finding reliable beta readers can be a difficult task. I offer this service for writers who have not found a good group of beta readers or who have trouble getting their beta readers to provide timely actionable feedback. My time is valuable; paid beta reading secures a slot in my editorial calendar.
I already have a list of questions I want my beta readers to answer.
Perfect! Send me your list when you send me your manuscript. If I don't already address your questions in my Reader Report, I will answer them for you to the extent my answers would not cross over into editorial work.
How long does beta reading take?
Beta reading deadlines are usually set by you, the author. Specific dates for your next round of editing, for example, could dictate when you would need beta feedback to be completed.
Depending on my schedule and the length of your manuscript, I usually finish beta reads within 2 to 4 weeks.