.png)
FAQ
I’ve already worked with an editor. Why do I need a beta reader?
An editor approaches your work with the intent to help you make it the best it can be. They take genre requirements into account. A beta reader acts like a member of a focus group to let you know how your story “lands” with avid readers of the genre. This includes whether they care about the characters, whether the story is credible, and how even controversial tropes (like love triangles or accidental pregnancy in romance) come across.
Why should I pay for a beta reader when I can find volunteers?
There’s the saying, “You get what you pay for.” And for beta reading, I believe it's multi-layered. It’s important to ask others to read your work from a reader’s perspective before you query or self-publish. People other than family and friends. Why? Well, a few reasons. Our loved ones can’t always offer objective feedback. Some may read it and say it’s perfect, while others may be overly critical for reasons that have nothing to do with the words you’ve written. Which brings me to the next reason: Our friends and family are not always our ideal reader. By that I mean, a sibling who reads self-development books exclusively can’t comment effectively on your romance manuscript because they aren't well versed in the genre, reader expectations, beats (if you follow a traditional structure), and whether ROMANCE readers would enjoy this ROMANCE novel.
What genre do you specialize in?
Romance! Adult and young adult contemporary. All heat levels with the exception of erotica.
Do you have experience beta reading other genres?
I’ve also worked on Christian fiction, historical fiction, and picture books.
Can you beta read poetry, science fiction, horror, etc.?
No. But if you send me your genre and target audience, I may have a beta reader recommendation.
What can I expect from your beta read?
The most common beta read I do is in-line comments using the “Add Comment” feature in Microsoft Word and Google Docs. The comments range from visceral reactions to questions if I’m confused. Some authors prefer that I answer specific questions they’ve developed, and I’m happy to do that in addition to, or in lieu of, in-line comments. That said, if you are looking for both, there is an additional fee.
What do you include in a reader report?
My reader report will include: 🔘 General thoughts on the story 🔘 Each key character (growth arc, credibility, continuity, and if/how I connected with them) 🔘 Minor characters (purpose and if they served said purpose) 🔘 Plot (questions, credibility, holes) 🔘 Setting (Is it clear and its own character? Does it inform the story?) 🔘 Is the happily ever after (HEA) or happy for now (HFN) credible and satisfying? 🔘 Are the tropes effective and credible?
Can you do a quick turnaround?
Send me an email with your word count, requested services, and your time frame (including whether you have any flexibility), and I’ll take a look at my calendar!
Cost?
Prices are based on word count, turnaround time, and service(s) requested. ➡️ $1 per 1,000 words for a 10 day turnaround time. In-line comments only ➡️ 6.25% sales tax on all orders (because tax time is a thing 😭) Add-ons: ➡️ Shorter turnaround time: $5 per day fewer than the usual 10. ➡️ $10 for author questions answered ➡️ $20 for a reader report (General thoughts, characters and arcs, plot, setting, trope application, credibility) ➡️ $25 for a reader report + author questions answered.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes! When an existing client sends a referral, they will receive a 20% discount upon their next booking. The new client will receive 10% off their first order.