I have just entered a brand new phase of the indie publishing process. My novel is in the hands of beta readers. If you are unaware, as I was, beta readers are also known as test or first readers.

Before you send your manuscript off to your professionally hired editor, it is recommended that you have a few people read your work. These first readers can catch typos and grammar mistakes, but mainly they are there to read it straight through and get a feel for the book. They can let you know if the beginning draws you in or if the story lags in places. They can tell you if they really hate a character, if there are terms they do not understand, or if there are holes in your plot.

Some beta readers charge for their service, but there are many more who are just readers that enjoy reading free books and providing critiques. They like to help writers and to see a novel from the ground up. I can imagine, it must be a fantastic feeling to know that you saw a book before it was published and because of you that book is better.

I have subscribed to BetaReader.io to allow my manuscript to be read online. My betas can read my manuscript, leave comments between chapters, and answer the questionnaire at the end of the book. I can see in real time where they are in the story and can respond to their comments as they leave them. It is such a fun way to get feedback.

I found my beta readers from Facebook groups I am a part of. There are some groups dedicated just to pairing up writers and beta readers. I am still looking for a few more readers of my manuscript. The more eyes on the work, the better. That way, I can determine if someone’s critique is isolated or if the majority feel the same way about a scene or character.

It is nerve-wracking to send your creation out into the world to be judged. Self-doubt sets in quickly. But writers must have a tough skin. Thoughtful critiques and suggestions will only improve the book.

Once I get their feedback, I will make the revisions. Then I can send it off to my editor (who I still need to find and hire).

But I am getting closer and closer to publication. So many steps involved, but they are all necessary and relevant.

To distract myself while my betas are going through my novel, I am going to jump straight into writing a short story or novella that ties into my series. Once that story is written, I will give it away for FREE to my newsletter subscribers. So jump on the list now and I will send you that story once it is complete.

After her divorce, Bristol Emerson sets off on a kayaking camping trip with her two sisters, her bestfriend and her dog into the Canadian wilderness. Secrets and misfortunes threaten on this fateful trip.

Will they all make it home with their health and relationships intact?

(Brief idea of what my book is about)

Have you ever heard of Beta Readers? Would you like to be a Beta Reader for my manuscript?

Leave me a comment below.

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