Looking for pre-reader(s) for general feedback

[Liz]

Hi,

I'm in the process of finishing my first re-writes on a new contemporary YA novel. The story is still fairly raw, so I'm not looking for grammar/spelling reviews, but something more like "this is ok, but I really didn't like..." type feedback.

The novel is approximately 85,000 words and very light on sex (what little is there is very vague). Also, while there is romance in the book, I would characterize it as more of a coming of age/coming out novel.

I should warn that the book contains discussions of suicide and violent bullying and some statements may be construed as anti-Catholic, plus in my attempt to write a multi-cultural novel I may have gotten some details way wrong.

Tthis is my first attempt at a blurb:

Bullied and friendless, with little love or support from his parents, seventeen year old Adam has reached a point where he can no longer wait for things to get better. Instead of going to school to face his tormentors, he decides to end his life. Just as he’s about to take the irrevocable last step, he meets Angel, a stranger who steps in and convinces Adam that it doesn’t have to be this way.

Life hasn’t been easy for Angel. With his Mom gone and his Dad choosing his other family in Mexico, Angel was forced to grow up in an overcrowded household of a resentful aunt. He’s saving money to move out and has plenty of his own problems, but when he recognizes Adam’s desperation, he can’t turn away.

Two boys from vastly different backgrounds form a strong bond as they help each other transcend traditional definitions of friendship, family and love.

I should be done with the first re-write this weekend and ready to send the story out Sunday. I'd be looking for feedback in about 2 weeks. Again, just general reader impression, no heavy error searches.

If anyone is interested, please drop me a line at lizwintersmm at gmail dot com. Feel free to post any questions in the thread.

Thanks!

Liz

[Rachel]

I could probably read this and give some general feedback. I sent an email from my gmail account. Sounds like an interesting story.

[Liz]

Awesome, Rachel! Thank you so much. I got your e-mail and will send the document as soon as I'm done with the last chapter re-write. Obviously I hope you like it, but I'm looking for honest feedback and I am very good at accepting criticism so you can be very frank about your dislikes. You should see something from me tomorrow or Monday at the latest.

Thanks again!

Liz

[Teresa]

I would be interested in reading it and give you feedback.

Teresa

[Liz]

Teresa wrote: "I would be interested in reading it and give you feedback.

Teresa"

Awesome, Teresa! I'm just finishing up the last minute re-writes. PM me your e-mail or e-mail me at lizwintersmm at gmail dot com and I will send you the story this evening or tomorrow morning at the latest.

Thanks so much for your help!

Liz