Note to moderators/readers: I attempted to post this in "Applied Writing ->Collaboration" but it says that I don't have the permission to do so (a new member?), thus posting it here with hopes it will be moved if needed. Thanks. I'm defining a “beta reader” as follows (copied and condensed from Wikipedia): An alpha reader or beta reader is a non-professional reader who reads a written work, generally fiction, with the intent of looking over the material to find and improve elements such as grammar and spelling, as well as suggestions to improve the story, its characters, or its setting. Beta reading is typically done before the story is released for public consumption. Beta readers are not explicitly proofreaders or editors, but can serve in that context. Elements highlighted by beta readers encompass things such as plot holes, problems with continuity, characterisation or believability; in fiction and non-fiction, the beta might also assist the author with fact-checking. That being said, I’m available for free and with no reciprocation asked for (not needed as I don’t have any writing available that I need help with). To be honest: I would like to read works from ‘mature’ authors, not teenagers, who have given the character arcs, plot lines, and settings, a considerable amount of thought and work. What I won’t read: Fantasy, science fiction, Gothic, other worlds, war/military (past, present, or future), children’s, young adult, transformation (man becomes a wolf), erotica, and things of that nature. What I’m excited to read: Romance (gay male or straight), historical drama, family drama/saga, western, gay, men’s, outdoor life, nature, action/adventure, contemporary fiction, mainstream fiction, and things of that nature. If you’re not sure if the content is something I’d like to read, just ask! Length: I’m not a fan of short stories. I like novellas, novels, and sagas. If you’ve written your heart out over 400,000 words and could really use someone to give it a glance then let’s give it a shot. What to expect: I am a medical/surgical editor by day so editing is second nature to me. I would prefer not to edit stories (don’t want to do my job in my down time!) but it will probably happen in limited ways. I will do my best to be involved in your story and be as proactive as I can without writing an actual “critique”. To accomplish that for you, I will need to read your work thus far (if you’ve only written 1 or 2 chapters then you don’t need a beta reader – most mature writers will understand). Time factor: I have lots of free time (and the winter is coming – yuck!) and will do my best to provide timely feedback so that you are not left hanging. If I am unable, I will let you know in advance and the reasons why. Communication & copyright: We can communicate by most means via internet. I can only give you my word that your work will be seen/read by only myself and that your copyright will be protected (I work in the medical field with sensitive patient information – I’m damn good with confidentiality!). If you have a work in mind that you think I might be able to help with by beta reading . . . drop me a line. Please don’t hesitate to inquire! I'm new to the ‘beta reader’ idea but not new to writing. Cheers, Jeff
You need to have been here 30 days and made 100 posts before you can post in the Collaboration forum. If this thread stays, I think you may want to say what's in this for you? Not that I doubt your intentions, just that it's unusual to offer this service without wanting reciprocation, so people may wonder.
Thanks, Tenderiser. One hundred posts would be a huge quota for me to attain LOL . . . I don't think I talk that much. I understand and accept the reason, though. My motivation is strictly volunteer. Winter is coming . . . I've got nothing to read around home that I haven't re-read a hundred times . . . not interested in television . . . . would enjoy helping out . . . love reading . . . Good will is my only motivation.
Hi Jeff! Wondering if you'd be interested in beta reading a 90K novel. Genre is hard to peg. Commercial fiction with humor and absurdity. Happy to give you more info if you're interested. You can PM me at 2surrly (at) gmail dot com.
Are you still offering beta reading services? I can't figure out how to inbox you, sorry to ask on the thread!
if you want to pm a member click on their name, then on the little pop up box click start a conversation.
