Jen’s Comments (group member since Aug 06, 2024)

Jen’s comments from the Beta Reading and Editing group.

Jen FrankelGenre: Supernatural Thriller/Urban Fantasy
Word Count: <78K
Seeking: Unpaid readers

So I took my YA supernatural thriller The Last Rite first novel out to a ramshackle backcountry shed and ripped it to pieces, humanely as possible, but ended up cutting almost half the length of the original. I’m now seeking beta readers who like books like The Dark Is Rising or Gideon the Fifth — dark YA with occult elements and major trope inversions.

There’s love in it, but nothing comes easy (NOT a double entendre); there’s power, and danger, and impossible choices. There’s a young female protagonist in mortal danger as she navigates an ancient battle of magical might, friendships made and broken, a monstrous antagonist of vast supernatural ability (and his terrifying children) and a Dreamworld where you must face your fears — and succumb if you want to escape. If this sounds like your jam, I’d love to have you as a beta reader.

Note: I'm playing with an idea of creating an IF version of the book that reincorporates a lot of the cut material as optional side trails, so please lmk if you would like to beta the <80K manuscript or would like the "expanded" 142K experience!

Some quotes from readers of the original:

“The Last Rite proved itself above what I had expected for it, and indeed above what I have come to expect for its genre. That I compared it to a series I consider a near seminal classic [The Dark Is Rising] is perhaps some of the highest praise I can heap on it. It definitely deserves a read.” - Wise_owl on Goodreads

“(A) rare gem! The book is a Supernatural thriller, but it takes the genre and flips it on its head... The best part is, it is original! It's incredibly refreshing to read a story that hasn't been done before... If you're looking for an original, epic story to lose yourself into for a few days - read this.” - Amanda Portelli on Goodreads

“(A)s many cliches as the beginning of the book might contain, they're shattered fairly quickly. The characters grow and suffer their hardships just like a group if teenagers would, not accepting everything instantly but taking time to work it out... The villains are also extremely well fleshed out. Instead of being nothing but forces of evil and destruction, they're shown with actual motivations and emotions, something that really isn't seen very often.” - Brittany on Goodreads

“Jen's writing style is a delight. Her way with words pulls you in, keeps you going, and makes you care. She's also a whiz with suspense... After the first chapter, there was no doubt I would finish it, and soon... Her characters are terrific, fully realized and interesting.” - Timothy Carter on Goodreads