Finding Beta readers - the struggle is real

[Justin]

I never go the Beta Reader route because I find it's hard enough in general to get them never mind what type of book it is that may make it harder to land readers.

I look into Fiverr at times and I go as far to recommend their services but to make it a priority to find beta readers I'm skeptical.

[audrey]

Sarah wrote: "I find beta readers helpful, because - as a writer- I'm usually so focused on the "micro-level" of every sentence and scene, I may miss some of the big picture stuff that would or wouldn't jive wit..."

As someone who's been a beta reader for a couple of novels, I really only do it for good friends or if I'm paid for it. After all, I'm using my time to put work into a product that someone else is planning on selling. And my time is valuable.

There are a lot of authors in this group; what about seeing if you can find another author to swap beta services with?

[Justin]

Hmm..beta readers for this group isn't a bad idea.

[audrey]

Justin wrote: "Hmm..beta readers for this group isn't a bad idea."

It might be worth looking to see whether GoodReads has any beta reader love-connection service going on, as well.

[Justin]

I'm sure there's beta readers groups here on GR but it may be worth looking into to see if we could start a small thread for one here.

[Cath]

I'd be hopeless with the mechanics of setting up a beta group, but I'd be very interested in participating. I'll soon have a novel to swap with another Weird Western writer.

[Ctgt]

Can't speak for other readers but I only beta read for authors that I have interactions with, doesn't mean we have to be close friends but I'm not going to do blind solicits either.

[Justin]

I'd still be for it. I'm no pro or suave proofreader but I'm sure I could spot out plot holes and give solid feedback. I'd also be open to have someone go over my weird western work too so I'm definitely down.

[Kyra]

sent you a PM.