Four's the Magic Number

Let's talk about beta readers!

Once you're done with your shiny new first draft, the next thing to do is put it in front of people who can be trusted to tell you if it sucks.

This usually means people who aren't afraid of hurting your feelings. So close friends and family are out. Distant friends, acquaintances, and people you've met over the internet tend to be your best bet. You want to run your by them, and see what they think of it.

This is known as beta reading. It's like beta testers, but for new books instead of new games.

I get most of my beta readers from the fanfiction boards I used to haunt. I still watch them, and when I run into someone who has insightful comments, or has written work as good or better than mine, I keep them in mind for my beta reader pool. They get an invite if there's a slot open, and if their free time is permissive enough to allow them to review my work.

It's quid pro quo. They get first chance at a story they've been waiting for, and I get comments and advice on refining it for the general public. I always remember that they're volunteering their time, and so I treat them with courtesy. He who pisses off his volunteers will soon find himself without volunteers.

So, ideally, after a few weeks they send me their comments or discuss their thoughts on the book, and I read them over thoroughly. I incorporate the ideas I agree with first. After that, I look at the ideas I disagree with. If it's only one person from the betas commenting on it, I'll probably leave the manuscript as-is in that area. If it's multiple betas commenting on the same thing, I'll sigh and revise it even if I'm not a hundred percent sold on the notion. If it's a REALLY unpalateable idea, I'll run it by my editor, then see what she thinks.

Hm? Oh yeah, I've got an editor. I pay her for her time and trouble. She's a hell of a friend, and knows I'm not gonna throw a tantrum if she tells me something's stupid. We've got trust going on. When you find a good freelance editor, you keep her by any means necessary, for as long as the gig works out to mutual benefit for all involved.

Anyway, I could probably get by with less beta readers, but this way gives me some wiggle room when real life comes up. Four betas means that if one of them has a flaming barbecue grill accident or has to move out of the country all of a sudden or just slacks off, then I still have three commentaries to draw upon. And once the changes are incorporated, the editor has final say on the finished product.

Typically I do about four or five drafts all told. I'm trying to refine that number downward, but it's a constant struggle.

So what's this mean?

All put together, it takes the time and effort of seven people (Counting the cover artist) to bring you one of my books.

I've had people tell me they're good quality, and I think I owe much of that to my betas and my editor. I don't think I'll be changing this process anytime soon... it seems to work.

Be well, and remember; no matter how good you are, much of life is easier if you have people helping you on your way.