How to Find Beta Readers and Critique Partners

I love my critique partners. I’ve been swapping pages with the same group since 2016 (and connected with additional critique partners along the way). Without their insights, I would’ve never grown the way I have over the years, which is why I’m always encouraging writers to connect with beta readers and critique partners, too. 

But how do you find critique partners and beta readers?

I connected with my critique partners through an in-person conference in my home state. I was looking for an in-person meet-up, which is why this worked for me. There’s five of us total, and we write across lots of genres and age categories. What I love most about our group is that everyone brings something so unique to the table. One person in our group is fantastic at line editing; another is fabulous an enhancing interiority. We meet once a month and exchange about 10-20 pages a piece. We also let each other know what type of feedback we’re looking for, so that we have a focused conversation. 

I share this because connecting with critique partners is only the beginning. Setting up expectations is just as important. Communication is key to building a wonderful group you can lean on for many years. 

You might look up local library programs, indie bookstores, or coffee shops. They often host meetups. Local writer associations—like SCBWI—may have a chapter near you, too. 

But what if you don’t have in-person options?

That’s okay! 

Writers are everywhere online. 

I have four other critique partners that I connected with on the internet. My biggest tip for finding critique partners online? Connect with fellow writers who are in a similar place. For example, if you’re writing a young adult fantasy and pursuing traditional publication, get on X, Threads, Instagram, etc., and follow writers who are posting about their WIPs. You could explore booktok and hashtags like #fantasybooks or #publishingjourney.

Show each other support, get to know each other as friends, and then ask if they’d be open to reading. Offer to exchange pages. Start out slow and only exchange a few chapters, explaining what type of feedback you’re looking for, and see how it goes. 

You may have to swap pages with a couple of people before you find someone that you truly vibe with, and that’s okay! Everyone has different styles and needs. Your needs may even change from project to project. For example, I have a first draft of one of my projects out with only one CP, because I knew that CP would be perfect for that book, and I wanted her insight before I shared it with others.) 

This is what works for me.

What works for you may be different, but don’t be afraid to get out there and exchange work with other writers. 

We’re all in this together. 

~SAT