Want to swap beta reads

[rebel_code]

I would love to have a regular beta reader, but the best I've had is a one-off editor, and sometimes even that's fallen through. I feel like if I'm asking someone to go to that trouble for me, I should be giving back. Hence my proposal. I have a draft that I need read before it goes live. If you do too, let's trade!

Why should you entrust your precious work to me? Well, I'm very good at the technical side, I'm told (and before you send me a PM saying "I found punctuation errors in your stories, hurr durr," of course I miss my own. That's why I'm asking!). And I grew up with a book in my hand. They say I had one in my crib; I'm not sure they're kidding. I don't have literary credentials, but I do claim a sense of what makes fiction work--again, even if I don't always follow that sense myself! I need to be kept on the straight and narrow too.

It doesn't matter to me if you are a new writer. So was I a year ago. I do hope to connect with someone with the same feeling for it and desire to improve that I have.

Take a look at my stories. They should give you an idea of what I'm about. They're on the short side for Lit, but that doesn't mean I won't read your novel, if it comes in chunks I can handle. Tell me about what you like to write, link me to your submissions if you're published here. Let's talk.

 

[yukonnights]

rebel_code, I'm in the similar search. I've looked at your story list though and found we write in very different categories. I've had some very kind folks look over my stuff, but even they admit to having a hard time wrapping themselves in the characters since they are so far removed from their own experiences.

My own stories are almost all LGBTQ related. I'm sorta tagging on your thread here, as I think it could be a helpful one. (It may get moved to the Editors Forum though.) Like you, I'm not a pro...but that second pair of eyes can always find more than the original author can.

So, if you don't mind...I'll ride along with you

(PS: if you do mind, just say so and I'll delete my 'help-wanted ad'. I should also mention; I'm here in the winter months but gone most of the warmer months.)

EDIT: Just an update to say I have been contacted by someone who has offered some help. A big thanks to all !

 

[NotWise]

(It may get moved to the Editors Forum though.)

rebel_code started his request in the Editor's Forum with little evident response. I suggest that since he's looking for other authors to swap with, then it might be good to try in AH.

 

[rebel_code]

So, if you don't mind...I'll ride along with you

That's fine! If more people want to join in, we could keep the thread going.
Like NotWise said, this is where the authors are.

 

[yukonnights]

rebel_code started his request in the Editor's Forum with little evident response. I suggest that since he's looking for other authors to swap with, then it might be good to try in AH.

Thanks for that NW. It does feel more comfortable here. It really is a valuable opportunity to be able to turn this hobby into a learning experience.