Looking for a Beta Reader

[Leigh]

Hello,

I am considering having a Beta Reader look over my manuscript. What is the best way to find a reliable Beta Reader?

[Cimone]

Here is a great place. What is your approximate word count?

[Dakota]

If you are looking for paid beta readers, just post to this board as you would a classified ad. What you are looking for in a beta reader as well as details (word count, blurb, has it been edited, etc) about your manuscript.

[Roughseasinthemed]

You might want to have a look at the services offered board and read any further info eg websites/blogs. That should give you some idea.

There is a wide range in terms of skills, experience, qualifications … and … prices. So you might be looking at anything from $20 to $100. Or maybe more.

The advantage of a paid-for beta read is that you should at least get something for your money, whether it is a (say) ten page report, and/or comments via track changes. Free beta reads can be hit and miss.

Don't forget it's not an edit, and you shouldn't be expecting that. Some betas may provide comments about spelling, grammar, punctuation, word usage etc, but not all do. Others will concentrate on character dev, plot, pacing, tension, writing style, structure, for example. Some will be analytical, some will give a more personal view (ie why I liked/didn't like this), others may do both.

You will probably get a good response, so give yourself some time to answer comments and messages!

[Jenny]

Hi,
You can either get a free beta reader or a paid one. Free betas are great too, but there's always small risk in that, but you might find some nice betas if you're willing to take a chance.
I provide beta reading services at a very affordable rate. My rates depend upon the word count, and in exchange I provide detailed feedback on every chapter. You can find more information on my page -
http://worldofabibliophile.blogspot.i...

[Leigh]

Hi Cimone,
My word count is approximately 40,000 words.

[Jessica]

As everyone said, you're in the right place! At the very least, paid beta readers often know what they're doing, and they won't flake out on you.

There are pros and cons to free beta readers, but I've met some great free beta readers through this group. Almost everyone I worked with was respectful and timely. My recommendation is to try free first, because if your manuscript needs a lot of work, you'll be wasting your money on an incomplete project. Then when you're in the final stages, enlist the help of a paid reader. They can help you tighten up the kinks, and not rearrange the whole story. Just my opinion, of course :)

[Leigh]

Hi Jessica,

Can you recommend some free beta readers who have done great work for you?

Thanks,
Leigh

[Jessica]

I would, but I'm sure their schedules are all booked. It's largely a first-come-first-serve type thing.

In the meantime, why not post something in the free beta readers section? It won't hurt to try it out. I would look at yours for you, but I'm completely booked until the end of February. If you're willing to wait though, you can send me a pm. Good luck :)

[Sharon]

Please visit my site, The Writer's Reader, https://thewritersreader.wordpress.com to view my deep publishing credentials and services offered. Contact me at sharonumbaugh@gmail.com and we can see if we are a fit. Thanks!

Sharon

[Iryna *Book and Sword*]

Please visit my website if you are still looking for a beta reader:
http://bookandsword.weebly.com/beta-r...

[Catherine]

you may want to check out my beta reader blog for some insight here: http://catherinemilos.com/alpha-beta-...

Here on Goodreads is a great place to look. Let me know if I can help in anyway.

[Charlotte]

Hello, I have some space as a beta reader and as such am offering discounted rates. Let me know if you're still looking.

[Gaby]

Hi, I'm a beta reader for Fantasy, Sci-fi, Horror, Steampunk and YA stories! Check out my website and see if I can help you out! Thank you! https://wanderlostborough.wordpress.c...

[Anoeska]

Hello there, you can always take a look on my website. I offer some great beta reading services. I also have other types of services, for if you're interested.

https://anoeskanossol.wixsite.com/boo...

You can also contact me through e-mail:

bookbutterflyservices@gmail.com

The best of luck with your story!
Greetings

[TKSelbach13]

I have been working as an independent freelance editor for about 8 years. My clients have been very pleased with my work thus far and would certainly be happy to provide recommendations if needed.

I recently achieved my bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing, as well as accomplished a Study Abroad program with a focus in writing. I can provide a high attention to detail, the ability to think outside of the box, and an enthusiastic attitude that clients will find quite appealing.

Certifications: Bachelor's Degree in Creative Writing
Contact: tkselbach13@gmail.com
Experience: 8 years of Beta Reading, 2 years of commission work
Rates: $0.05 per word.
Turnaround: 1-3 months

$5 – 100 words
$50 – 1,000 words
$500 – 10,000 words
$5000 – 100,000 words

[Kai]

Hey! Here is always a good option. Hope you don't mind if I offer myself...
I offer beta reading services on my Fiverr for an affordable rate. I am always honest, I give professional feedback and I always give advice on how to improve your manuscript!
I always track all changes and give feedback on plot, character development, writing style, dialogue, pacing, coherence, minor grammar issues and more. If there's anything in particular that you need me to focus on, that is always welcome!
I mostly do these genres but not limited to: Contemporary fiction, Scifi, fantasy, LGBTQ+, poetry, YA, Children's lit, Romance, Historical Fiction.

Contact me if you have any questions on Fiverr or my email thesocksareevil@gmail.com
:) I have only recently opened an account of Fiverr so my prices are very low at the moment!:

https://www.fiverr.com/evil_socks/bet....

Thanks for considering me,
Kai