Beta Reader for Slow Burn Steampunk-lite Fantasy

[Collin]

Hello,
I'm seeking a Beta Reader for my novel: Columbia: the life and death of Rospo D. Oro. I'm not looking for any major proofing at this point, just someone to read it and give me thoughts; I've been working on this far too long and have lost all objectivity.

I hate (and/or suck at) writing blurbs or synopses, but here's... something:

Columbia: the life and death of Rospo D. Oro is a heart-warming, story inspired by Kenneth Grahame's The Wind in the Willows, set in a living, Steampunk world filled with love, magic, addiction, danger, reconciliation, and redemption.

Netty, a Caver of the Under Harbor who has only ever lived below the surface, finally decides to muster her courage and explore the world above. But not long after exploring the Wild Woods, she runs into--or more rightly his almost run over by--one Rospo D. Oro in his newest contraption! Follow Netty on her journey of discovery, and Rospo on his dangerous descent into addiction and obsession over his machines and need to go farther and faster. Learn their fate as you meet a bizarre cast of characters, visit unique locations, and live their adventures.

Columbia would probably be classified as Young Readers/Fantasy. It's approximately 65,000 words/216 pages.

A word of warning, as the title of this message suggests, this is a slow slow slow burn of a story. It's not tedious, and I don't believe it reads slow. It's just a calm story with moments of peace and quiet, and info dumps of descriptions.

Additionally, there are also some storylines or moments that are not "finished" or fully explained. This is by design. However, many readers can be frustrated by this fact. The idea is to let the reader think and hopefully argue about the possibilities with each other. They are not loose ends, not in my mind anyway. I believe there are enough indicators to give closure; it's just not entirely spelled out.

Also, the narration is 3rd person and written fairly conversationally with (gasp) exclamation marks. There is a reason for this--though it may or may not work. But I know this can be annoying to some people, so I just wanted to warn.

And I'm open to you telling me I'm wrong about all these decisions! Just wanted to give fair warning.

Sorry for the lengthy bleh there, but I wanted to be as upfront as possible. Thanks for making it this far. I'm new at all this and sweating as I write this so please forgive me! Thanks again.

Email: composer@collinsimon.com

[M. L.]

Hi, Collin! I just sent you an email regarding my services!

[Khalima]

Hello, Collin. I sent you an email as well.

[H.J.]

I've just sent you a PM. Looking forward to hearing from you!

[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