“We all need people who will give us feedback. That’s how we improve.” – Bill Gates
Let the feedback begin....
Most authors include beta readers in their process somewhere between their second draft and sending their manuscript to a publisher. Why? Because often the author is simply too close to the material to see certain things. Perhaps the author misses a glaring plot-hole because the completed story (and back story) are in his or her head and doesn't realize key element was cut out in the second round of editing cleanups. Or, perhaps, the story just isn't as compelling as the author thinks. Beta readers can help the author produce a better product by providing honest feedback.
• Does the story engage you?
• Is the pacing proper?
• Are there sections that drag?
• Do the characters seem real?
• Do they behave and talk in a consistent manner?
• Did I leave too many clues so that you figured out the ending well in advance?
• Or did I not leave enough, making you feel like I pulled a fast one at the end?
In my own writing process, beta readers have been a critical part of ensuring each chapter leaves the reader wanting more and the characters words and actions ring true. People's brains don't all work the same, process the same, interpret nuance the same. If I want the reader to enjoy the story on the page as much as I enjoy it in my head, I may need to convey it differently and need to know that. That's why beta readers are imperative to the process.
Want to Help?
Book 1 (The Marylebone Intersection) of the Two Truths and a Spy series is currently in the beta-reading stage. I so appreciate all of the beta readers who have committed so far and have already been giving quality feedback ... I am, however, seeking several more. In addition to needing general readers willing to provide specific feedback, I would also like to find a few beta readers in specified areas of knowledge to ensure my research has no gaps. I have been vigilant in my research (the elaborate matrix of citations for all of the historical events, and situations the characters are immersed in is a bit daunting), context and nuance can be trickier for a person who wasn't personally there.
If you are interested in participating in the beta reading initiative for The Marylebone Intersection, CLICK HERE for more information or to let me know you're interested. The beta-reading process is completely electronic – most of my beta readers have been using their mobile devices (iPad, smartphone, etc.) for both reading the chapters and completing the feedback forms.
My hope is that, if I've hit the mark with The Marylebone Intersection, my beta readers will eagerly continue on as beta-readers for book 2 (Detoured in Dubai) and book 3 (Head-On Collusion) so they know how the saga ends. Detoured in Dubai is already up on the site and ready to beta-read for those who finish book 1 quickly.
Note: Book 3 is roughly 30% complete now and should be posted and ready for beta-reading by early summer (2021).
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