Monday 12 January 2015

A request for beta readers ... NOT for me ;)

I am pretty sure I mentioned on this blog sometime recently that I've been beta reading a novel for someone. The writer doesn't currently have an online presence, but will be looking into that. For now, she is seeking a beta reader or two to feast their fresh eyeballs on her work in progress. :)

Her initial description of the book:

"I have either a romance with suspense elements or a thriller with romantic elements.  Kind of stuck in between."

So I wound up reading it, and became mildly addicted. She only sent me bits at a time as she edited a few steps ahead of my reading, so I was always eagerly awaiting the next installment. She is currently going through her next round of edits, and asked me if I knew anyone who might be interested in reading through the next incarnation of the book.

I thought I'd share some quotes from emails I sent her while reading, to give you an idea of whether the book might be your cup of tea or not:

"I'm reading [your chapters] now and enjoying them - already had a laugh out loud moment, and am intrigued. And also chilled by the 'bad guy' of the story!"

"I finished the chapters, and really enjoyed them! I definitely want to read more, if you're happy to send them over. :) I found myself laughing loudly at a lot of the scenes, but it's also scary and suspenseful with the <character name redacted> factor.
I also am *very* interested in the developing romance element."

"I have finished all your chapters & am really eager to read on ;)My feeling so far is you have a really great story, and the chapters can use polishing ... but otherwise the story is great."

"Hey, finished reading this as well - definitely a game changer!!"

"I got up to the bit where <character name redacted>'s being confronted by the psycho - you're killing me with the suspense!! LOL."

Soooo, all that said, if you'd be interested in reading the novel after the current round of edits, please let me know and I will get you in touch with the writer. :)

10 comments:

  1. I would offer my services because I know how it is when you're just starting out and don't have anyone to help (we all do), but I'm editing two of my own works. And I'll be searching for beta readers very soon for my novel. I'm sorry, but I wish your friend all the best!

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  2. Not my type of read, but I hope she gets a few more test readers. The IWSG Facebook Critique Circle might be a good place to look.

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  3. Good luck with the beta reader search. My plate is full at the moment. Can't wait to hear more about this mystery writer and her work. :)

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  4. Send my way! Let's see what I can do or if I can do!!! So sweet of you to help out a friend!!

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    1. Awesome! Thanks so much, Tammy! :) Will get her to get in touch with you :D

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  5. Suspense/thriller is my favourite genre, so maybe I can help...
    mish@writer-in-transit.co.za

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    1. Yay, thank you Michelle! :) I'll pass your email along.

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  6. So glad people have offered to help! I'm in two deep right now. I hate to say I'll do something and then take six months to get it done (I'm a slow reader!)

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  7. I wish I could help. I might look into manuscript exchanges and beta reading over the summer. When I'm working full-time, as I'm doing now, it's next to impossible.

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  8. Sounds like a fun read. Looks like you've got some interest, too. I'm sure the writer appreciates your help.

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Thanks for your words, me hearties! and don't forget to leave a link to your blog somewhere I can find it!