Why I don’t use Beta Readers #WriterWednesday #AmWriting

4 responses to “Why I don’t use Beta Readers #WriterWednesday #AmWriting”

1. T Francis Sharp

   December 8, 2017 at 2:20 am

   I think the key to beta readers is to know what you need from them. It is a risky proposition however. Confidence in one’s work is a fragile thing. Not all beta readers are the same. I agree that indiscriminate beta readers ought be avoided at all costs. Even blockbuster books have their distracters, as not all books are for all readers. It calls for a certain level of trust. Trust that the reader gets what you are trying to do, a reader who understands the genre somewhat, and a reader who appreciates the voice and style of the writer. And that’s important, I think we’ve all read book by writers that we just didn’t get or appreciate. Steven King is a great example for me. Just don’t like his writing style. My loss, I’m sure. By trust, I don’t mean someone who reads it and exclaims, great. Not at all. But someone trusted to be somewhat compatible with ones target audience. Because a good beta read will give the writer many points to ponder. And too mny beta readers will give you a chaotic mishmash of conflicting opinions. It’s already difficult enough to deal with the criticism and suggestions from trusted sources without taking on the headache of undoubtedly well meaning but unqualified beta readers who might quibble about stylistic choices or narration. So, yes to beta readers, but the process of choosing those readers needs to be conducted with much care.

   LikeLike

   Reply
   • vanderso

     December 8, 2017 at 1:54 pm

     Agreed, but you often don’t know whether a given reader will have those qualities until after the fact. Still, anyone who will read and comment on an entire novel draft pro bono is a gift!

     LikeLike

     Reply
2. D.E. Haggerty

   November 29, 2017 at 11:03 am

   Thanks for sharing

   LikeLiked by 1 person

   Reply
   • vanderso

     November 29, 2017 at 11:26 am

     My pleasure! I often think I should be beating the bushes for beta readers. Maybe, maybe not!

     LikeLiked by 1 person

     Reply