Nathan Bransford - The Forums

Hey guys. So, I was wondering....where can I find some trust worthy beta readers? I have read over my paranormal YA novel over 20 times, and have even left it alone for 6 month to come back to it with fresh eyes, and I think it's about time I get some feed back. I have never done this before so I don't even know where to start. Any ideas? Thank you. ^.^

Perhaps at a more active messageboard, such as K-boards or Absolute Write?

It has been known to happen here, too, though lately few writers visit.

I found some excellent readers at Absolute Write. I also went through a few fellow writers that I didn't really click with. Everyone's different, both in terms of what they prefer to read and how they give feedback, and finding a compatible critique partner or beta can be difficult. But it's rewarding. Two of my regular readers I found after volunteering to read their work, which helped me to decide they were at the right level for the reader I wanted.

Good luck!

Aye I concur with the above...Absolute write has a lot of activity going through there and they seem a friendly bunch...

You could also have a ping at AQ Connect....It doesn't have an overt critique partner but there's a bit of activity there and a lot of cool peeps.

Hope that helps

I know it's not quite the same but Spinetinglers will provide a manuscript critique for only £20. It can be a useful insight to have and they are very constructive.They will also enter you into one of their annual competitions too. Here's a link for anyone who fanices a look: http://www.spinetinglerspublishing.com/ ... -critique/

The only decent beta readers I've ever found, I met at conventions. It's hard to find people who (a) really will do the work, (b) have the skill & insight to see what the story could be through what it currently is, and (c) like the thing you're actually trying to achieve. (And yes, c is vitally important; if you find yourself with a beta who would hate your story if you got it perfect, thank them politely and walk away fast!)

If you're not already in the convention circuit, check out the ones nearest you and see if they have a writing track in their programming. If yes, it might be worth your time & money to give them a try. Chat up the folks who asked interesting questions during the writing panels and see where it leads.

I I will try this.