Looking for Beta Readers

[Michael, Author of The Riyria Chronicles]

For those that don't know my "life's history" I'll fill you in on some backstory related to this book. I wrote this in what seems like another lifetime. It was the novel that I poured all my heart and soul into...the one I thought would break me into publishing...instead it broke my heart and made me give up creative writing for a decade.

I've since taken the book out, revamped it, incorporated some feedback and am now trying to decide what to do with it. Should I self pubish? Hunt it around to an agent or big-six publisher? Sit it on a shelf never to see the light of day? I'm just not sure what to do with it.

So here's the deal. I'm looking for feedback on it. I need beta readers to give it a gander and provide me some perspective on it.

Now...this is NOT the Riyria Revelations or anything akin to that. In many ways it is the anti-Riyria and most who have read A Burden to the Earth are surprised that I wrote it as the styles are vastly different.

The Riyria Revelations was all about fast-paced intricately plotted stories with twists and turns. In contrast, The Burden to the Earth is literary fiction. The focus was on the writing, how to build a complex character, turn a phrase, and paint a picture with words.

Because of this, I suspect that many of my "existing fanbase" won't like this work - and so I'm not sure whether I should publish it under a pen name or if I should even bother.

So...Here's a bit about the book.

It's a story about Elliot Meyers, a forty-year-old man who still lives at home with his mother. He is mired in the past, and resentful that his own life has not mirrored the one promised by the telvision shows of his youth--Gunsmoke, Ozzie & Harriet, and Leave it to Beaver.

Set in the early 1990's, Elliot sees a door of opportunity open on a possible romantic relationship and must find the courage to make his first, and only, grasp at life.

If you enjoy literary ficiton, I'd love to get your opinion on this work. I can send you a copy of the book in a variety of formats. If you would like to get a copy send an email to robin.sullivan.dc@gmail.com and specify what format you would prefer.

I'm very interested to find out what others think of this book - and I'm hoping you can help me decide what to do with this work that I do think deserves to find an audience.



Thanks.

[Carlissa]

This book sounds interesting! I sent an email requesting a copy. I'm not very good at writing reviews, but I'd be happy to read this book and let you know what I think about it.

[Heather]

Do you want a review written? Or just honest feedback?

[Robin]

At this stage of the game just looking for honest feedback.

[Heather]

OK. Can do.