Willing beta readers

semilargeintestine · Apr 4, 2009

I was a beta (beta-ed?) for someone and enjoyed it, so I'll put myself out there as available too.

I'm up for anything fiction (I love SF), historical and some non-fiction. At the moment, I can't do full novels, though I can do several chapters or short stories. I'll be open to full novels eventually, I'm just too busy right now.

I also am of the constructive honesty style. I will tell you what I think works or doesn't work and try to give a suggestion for what doesn't.

Crayonz · Apr 11, 2009

I'm still kinda new around these parts, but what the hell.

Willing to beta read short stories and novels, finished works and unfinished works, whatever floats your boat. I'll only (with a few exceptions) beta fantasy and YA. It doesn't have to be one or the other, but I'd prefer it that way.

I crit in an constructive, honest way. Sometimes I can be a little brutal, but only occasionally.

Samantha's_Song · Apr 12, 2009

I'm brutal all of the time, that's why I get so much work to go over sometimes

Crayonz said:
I crit in an constructive, honest way. Sometimes I can be a little brutal, but only occasionally.

SilverPhoenix · Apr 13, 2009

quoting myself from a long time ago (page two wow)
thought i better dig it up instead of editing because hell,
i wouldn't be too expectant myself of help from a post made ages back.
i came back to a bunch of old requests though x.x had some sudden changes irl = sudden absence.

been absent some time but can beta again now x3

SilverPhoenix said:
I'll beta-read anything that's fiction, for free.

It's near impossible to offend/disturb me, so swearing/erotica doesn't bother me,
and I'm keen on reading all things, although I tend to write fantasy.

I am always thorough and try my best.
Feel free to PM me if you want help =)

Some new notes would be:

~ If over 70k expect much less depth. If you want alot of depth then it's best to give a partial.
I've gone over about 30k words LBL before.

~ I'm interested most in YA atm as I'm thinking of heading down that path in my own writing soon.
[ = read as much YA as possible to get a feel for it, however good it is, published/unpublished, good or bad ]

Ludka · Apr 15, 2009

I like genre fiction (SF/F/H). I'll beta anytime. Just shoot me a PM

Juneluv12 · Apr 17, 2009

CLOSED TO BETA READING UNTIL JUNE! I'M SWAMPED!!!!!

Hi guys,

I wanted to throw out an offer of doing Beta Reading. People have been so great to me here on Absolute Write that I can't help but want to return the favor.

My favorites would be YA, Historical Fiction, Literary, and Romance.
I'm not a big Sci-Fi or Fantasy fan, so unless you're in a bind, I'd probably have to say no.

Even though I write somewhat in the Inspiriational genre, I don't mind cussing, sex, or violence. I've got a potty mouth myself!

Here's my "street cred"/credentials so to speak! I'm a high school English Teacher. I have a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in Adolscent Education. That doesn't mean I'm always the Grammar Queen with my own writing...don't tell my students! I've currently got a YA Fantasy with several partials and two fulls out, and I'm about to start querying an adult novel as well.

Because of all the essays I grade, I'm a fast editor/reader. We're in the homestretch now with school, and I'll have a lot of time this summer.

PM me if you're interested!

Thanks

power31312 · Apr 19, 2009

Willing Beta

I'm looking to be a beta. I'm in college studying for English major. I usually have a lot of time on my hands so you'll get quick responses back.

I don't care if its a full manuscript or a partial, I'll work on either.

I'm not too picky on what I'll read, but my favorites are YA, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Horror, Mystery, Paranormal Romance

styloviolet · Apr 21, 2009

Willing to Beta

I'm willing to beta darn near everything, fiction or non-fiction. My favorites are romance and YA, but I'm fairly "equal opportunity". Just about the only thing I really don't want to read is horror.

As far as experience goes, I've been beta-ing fanfic for a good friend for probably 8-9 years now. (And not crappy fanfic, either.) I have both volunteer and (some) paid experience copyediting, proofing, and developmentally editing fiction and non-fiction.

When I edit or beta, I really focus on maintaining the author's voice. I'm a cut-to-the-chase kinda girl, and won't sugarcoat things. (At the same time, I'm not going to make you want to throw your magnum opus off a cliff, either.

). I'm open to all lengths of work.

Lord thornrim · Apr 29, 2009

willing

im a fast up to anything reader. I like all genres. So if you need a reader let me know.

Pampers28 · Apr 29, 2009

MKL1025 said:
I'd be happy to be a beta reader for any women's fiction/chick lit piece!

My first novel, a commercial women's fiction piece, was just sold to Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's and I'm in the limbo stage between contract and editorial letter, so I have some time.

Congrats on your first book coming out! My first novel is being shopped right now and I have potential interest from Thomas Dunne as well. Waiting while editors make a decision is so hard...how long did it take for your book to sell?

stevenqle · Apr 29, 2009

Hey, new forum member here. I'd be up to read any short stories in any genre. As long as I can look through it in one sitting, but I guess thats dependent on how long I can sit for. I'm a recent college grad with plenty of free time.

ashes2jewels · May 12, 2009

Beta Reader, at your service

I am willing to beta read. Although I am new to the site, I've a good eye for structure, grammar and those sneaky words oft used too frequently(That, then, though...die, abused words, die!). I like darn near everything with a good voice but it'll take me a spell to read military pieces. I LOVE romance, urban fantasy, SF, F and historical fiction. Please, though, nothing too erotic, I have elfin ears that do not need a splash of bright red to grab attention.

Those who'd like to swap beta services are doubly encouraged to apply by PM.

AspiringAuthoress · May 17, 2009

I'm willing to beta YA fiction as a teenage reader. I prefer not too much profanity or sex but I can handle some. Remember though, I'm young, and I'd rather not be scarred for life

I read really fast and do not mind reading full manuscripts or just chapters at a time. If you send a full manuscript, however, don't expect a critique every other line. I can do this if you want, but you better send the ms to me in smaller chunks! I'm also pretty good at catching spelling and grammar errors. If you want me you beta, just PM me, or send me an email at [email protected]. If you email me, I will probably respond faster. I have 2 beta projects right now but room for one more

It is summer, after all, and I have all the time in the world (plus a new laptop!).
-Laura

MuseMe87 · May 18, 2009

Beta Available

I'd be a willing beta for those interested. While I'm new to Absolute Write, I've beta read for a few friends and am very comfortable with grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc.

My preferences include fantasy and historical fiction; however, I wouldn't be opposed to other genres as long as the story is interesting and fairly well written. I'm not afraid of sex scenes or language, so feel free to send me works with those included. As far as length is concerned, short story or WIPs would be preferable, but I'm open to longer pieces.

Since the point of having your work betaed is getting critiqued, don't expect me to gush about every little thing. I'll give you an honest review with helpful suggestions. I've had an experience with a very strict and honest beta reader and found that, because of her, my writing improved immensely.

If you're interested, please PM me. If you could include a snippet from your story or brief summary as well as any areas you would like me to concentrate on and/or aspects of the story that you want to inform me about that may have sensitive subject matter (i.e.- erotic scenes, rape, etc.), it would be much appreciated.

profen4 · May 18, 2009

Hi Guys, *I’ve been a Beta before, and would be happy to do it again*.

I’d be happy to Beta almost anything that’s Fiction.

I have just begun the query process for my first two novels, (both of which are YA) and am writing my third. I am not easily offended and will consider reading anything.

Send me a PM if you’re interested.

Cheers

Zellie · May 19, 2009

I'm interested in beta reading but I prefer beta trades.

I like to start with the first three chapters to determine whether your style/genre/story is something I can read for the long haul. I'd love for some beta reading to develop into full on critique partners.

I enjoy reading fulls but I'm not an effective beta for something I have a personal bias against. Like high fantasy - I'd be spending half the time wanting to take out the elements that make it high fantasy because I just am not interested in that genre no matter how great the book is.

I have a degree in English and my critiques are very thorough. I prefer novels and serials. I read science fiction and fantasy (especially urban, paranormal or dark fantasy). Prefer Heroes or Tad Williams type science fiction, no hard sci-fi. No vampires unless you are seriously creative with them like the remote-controlled wall-crawlers in Magic Bites are cool. Would rather not read werewolves. Not a big fan of Magical Schools. LOVE anything remotely Neil Gaiman-esq or Anne Bishop-esq

I try not to procrastinate so I don't hit up the forums much--too busy writing

thus I may not see a PN until months later so please email me - [email protected]

fairy86 · May 20, 2009

I'm willing to beta. I like anything YA, Urban/Contemporary Fantasy, Paranormal, and Romance.
The length doesn't matter; I read pretty fast and usually finish a 350-400 page book in a couple days. PM me if you're interested.

TheWebby · Jun 1, 2009

Hello,

Are you still in a place where you can do some beta reading? I have a completed novel that I am realizing is urban fantasy. I am self-publishing this book. It's been through revisions and a critique group.

I am including a short blurb for you to peruse.

Thank you in advance for your consideration.

What would happen if a monster was assigned to a U.S. Navy ship? Not only will John Hurst answer this question, he'll soon discover he has a werewolf inside that has decided it's time to get out!

John is a new sailor serving aboard a U.S. Navy destroyer. When a new supervisor is assigned to the ship, John's life quickly unravels. First, John's boss launches a campaign of revenge-fueled persecution against him. Moreover, he can change his appearance at will. However, those issues pale in comparison to the fact that John now sports razor-sharp fangs and brown fur when he gets angry.

John will travel on a path of self-discovery, one that will take him through a searing grief over the murder of his mother and his forced involvement in a secret war between different werewolf factions. John will also find himself reunited with a father he thought was dead.

Unleashed also introduces Nathan Rideler, a reporter whose dead brother follows him around. Nathan's first job will be to break the werewolf story wide open, if he can survive not only adversaries with fangs, but his ex-girlfriend's reckless driving.

Sincerely,
Spencer Webster

j.s.cutler · Jun 2, 2009

I'm looking to find a beta reader and vice versa. Not sure if it's better to query previous posters or strike out on my own here. I'll try the latter.

My novel is "Misprnit" (and no that's not a misprint.) It's about 85k of the mystery-thriller genre,. A wee bit of profanity, but nothing else that would offend. The short hook is a newspaper editor who reads his own obit in the paper and has to uncover the crime before it happens.

I'm not so much looking for grammer/punctuation feedback as I am pacing, plot and character development. The manuscript has been edited already a few times and is in good shape.

I'm game for beta reading any kind of mystery/thriller genre. Not a big fan of fantasy or scifi, but I do like history, politics, crime, or business topics. Some of my favorite authors are Follett, Connelly, Grisham, Archer and Clancy if that gives you an idea.

This is my first experience as a beta reader, but I've been a newspaper editor for ten years so I'm guessing I'd be a decent editor.

I'm looking for a real, honest critique and would provide the same.

Please send a PM with info.

Samantha's_Song · Jun 2, 2009

For those of you wanting your works read, maybe a little posting of your own, asking for a beta reader and explaining what your work is about, would be better.

trisha · Jun 5, 2009

Happy to beta read

I would be happy to beta read for somebody. I prefer YA, romance, or chic lit. Not big into crime and dective genre -- I went to law school so I have plenty of real life drama in that department to contend with.

I am good with characterization and plot 'holes'. Grammar is not my forte but I will correct them as I see them. I am a quick reader and would be happy to read WIP or completed pieces.

Happy writing!
Trisha

rubarbb · Jun 7, 2009

Hi Everyone, I am looking for a beta reader. My story is a memoir, but much more that that. It is about my being the main caregiver when my mother was an in-home hospice patient. It is about 182 pages and is an easy read. Most of it has been edited. To let you know up front, I am not interested in being a beta reader. We can talk about retribution later... Thanks Ken

Gray Rose · Jun 7, 2009

THANKS TO ALL WHO CONTACTED ME! NOTE THAT I AM COMMITTED AT THIS POINT. I WILL REPOST/EDIT THIS MESSAGE WHEN I FINISH READING THE CURRENT BOOKS. THANK YOU AND GOOD LUCK FINDING A BETA!

It's summer, and I'd like to read a novel. Probably won't have time to beta more than one.

I am interested in fantasy, the darker the better (sexuality and horror elements are good). SF is also a possibility as long as it's not too hard. I love a strong voice and beautiful language; if you have consistent grammar, spelling and punctuation problems, I am not the reader for you.

What I can help with: I am very good with spotting inconsistencies, plot holes and worldbuilding glitches. I can help you with general advice on plot and structure. I am also good with character development/motivation.

Please note that I tend to dish it out. I am Russian and in my culture dishing it out is a sign of respect. I do my best to be gentle, but if I become generally invested in your novel I will tell you exactly what I think its problems are, so please don't ask if this style of critiquing is not your cuppa.

If you'd like me to read your book, please PM me with a short description. If it sounds interesting, I would like to read and critique a sample chapter first. This way we won't waste each other's time and nerves if your writing and my critiquing style do not mesh well together.

Take care,
Rose

daehedr · Jun 8, 2009

Would like to beta for anyone writing Women's Fiction, Chick Lit, mystery, thriller, horror, romance, YA in general I really appreciate a book with good strong female characters. I am an avid reader who goes through 3-4 books per week. Grammar not a strong point but I am very good with plot, flow, consistency, spelling and some picky stuff.

I am a fan of Fannie Flagg, Sarah Douglass, Kelley Armstrong, Sue Grafton, Sarah Paretsky, Charlaine Harris, David Eddings, Raymond Feist, J Deaver,Brendan O'Caroll to name a few.

Faith

Rowdymama · Jun 9, 2009

Wanted: Beta reader for YA fantasy novel

I am looking for a beta reader who is into YA fantasy. My novel is in its 2nd draft. It has a young female heroine, and is a quest/adventure story that involves a trapped people, some unreliable, dangerous, failing magic, a goat, a war, a talisman, trogs (cross between trolls and frogs). Grammar, spelling, usage not generally needed. I'd like someone who reads a lot and is an accomplished writer (not necessarily published).

I can pay a small bit per chapter or beta back. I've a degree in writing and 30 years' experience - fiction and non-fiction - editing, teaching writing, and have been published, online and in print.

Willing beta readers

BassGirl 5000

Tribal Flame Warden Ducky

At least I don't need backing-up

Revisions, revisions, revisions

Hath more hair than wit

Steel Magnolia & Snarky Pants

Believe in the impossible

Relentless Wisecracker

Sith Lord Thornrim

Ninja!!!!

Rock like an elk!

Loose on the internet!

Long-term Scribe

At least I don't need backing-up

Closet Writer

Serenity

Beware of the Thorns!

Dogzilla