If one isn't writing in an easily defined genre, I find it challenging to find beta readers that will be able to provide useful feedback. I don't know how to find the good match between beta reader and material - if the match isn't good, the feedback may be less useful or misleading. Tricky.
Totally agree. Even though I write narco thrillers--not too oddball of a niche-- the last writing group I was in was primarily non-fiction, and sadly they couldn't grasp that each month I'd read a new chapter, and they didn't remember what came before. So then there'd be ??s, who is so and so, and why is this happening, etc. It was rather maddening. When one of the writers left the group, I too exited. And promptly found an editor, who I love and have used in my last 2 fictions. I've had beta readers, however, who I chose b/c they were voracious readers. That worked out pretty well, but again, I write thrillers, pretty straightforward stuff. If you're ever looking for a good editor, DM me. Good luck in your writing ventures!
Thanks for asking Sarah. Well...that's part of the challenge ;-)
I'm working on a book that spans science - philosophy/spirituality and is not self-help, although of course I want the content to provoke thought and hopefully new perspectives that could create change.
Because it's about the brain (from a non-anatomical, non-chemical approach), people interested in The Brain think they're perfect, but they tend to Get bored when I don't start talking about brain-bits and dopamine hits and instead head off into nonlinear systems and dancing brains.
I think I need to go Jeanine's way and get it off to an editor who Gets it. (Who will also be hard to find. I've had editors that have tried to turn it into a straight-up, very linear, science book or into a self-help coaching book, because they thought that's what would sell.
Yes we do. I recently tried to read another indie publisher's book and I was like, "Did you use a beta reader?" They really could have used some beta readers. Hard truths make us better writers.
It is good advice. Having a reader is good not just for finding flaws in your work but also for getting input on which parts of your work are best. Some things I have written I felt were terrible, but since some readers enjoyed them, I know there are useful bits to take from them.
This sounds like a good idea and something I'll consider. I just started writing microfictions. I stepped away from ready paperback books and during the past few years I had difficulty with holding my attention like I used to. I could barely sit through an audiobook longer than an hour LOL. Only read a short online articles and blogs. Now I'm getting back to that and believe that it'll help with my writing. Feeling much better about it. Thanks for sharing the tips!
I studied Creative and Professional Writing at university, and that was also my first experience of being in a critique circle. It was hugely valuable, and I know if I were to join one know I'd get even more benefits from it. I am part of a writer community but sometimes I feel my area of writing is quite different from everyone else. That may be imposter syndrome, but it may also be in truth. If I were to write fiction today, it would be more commercial than what we know to be standard literature. Who knows. That being said, I was so very excited to join Substack because I heard of the incredible writing community on here. I've read a wide variety of stunning pieces, about a range of topics, and felt like maybe there is place for me here after all.
Anyway, I'm rambling! But I write this to say, this is a great post. We can all do so much individually, but we can do so much more with community. If you're reading this, I hope you find yours.
I joined my first ever writing group last year, and it’s been great! I’ve definitely learned a lot, but more than anything, I’ve been encouraged! Hearing a stranger tell me they like a scene really hits different than my mom saying she likes a scene (as much as I value her opinion.)
I love this advice. I have a Substack that I am willing to share with the world, but I keep the fiction I write SO guarded. I have about two friends who I send every chapter that I write, and their input keeps me going, but at the same time it is so scary! It seems like this big hurdle that all writers have to overcome. Here's to libraries and writer groups and hopefully eventually finding the courage to branch out!
Thank you Sarah for this post. This definitely resonated with me as I feel the imposter syndrome on a regular basis. I've never gone to school or taken classes for writing, never had my work critiqued or torn apart (I have lots of this experience in art school though!) and never shared in a writing circle. It definitely does feel intimidating, though I know I would benefit. The only place I've shared my writing is on my substack. I think part of this is due to only very recently feeling comfortable to even call myself a writer. Definitely gave me something to think about!
If one isn't writing in an easily defined genre, I find it challenging to find beta readers that will be able to provide useful feedback. I don't know how to find the good match between beta reader and material - if the match isn't good, the feedback may be less useful or misleading. Tricky.
Totally agree. Even though I write narco thrillers--not too oddball of a niche-- the last writing group I was in was primarily non-fiction, and sadly they couldn't grasp that each month I'd read a new chapter, and they didn't remember what came before. So then there'd be ??s, who is so and so, and why is this happening, etc. It was rather maddening. When one of the writers left the group, I too exited. And promptly found an editor, who I love and have used in my last 2 fictions. I've had beta readers, however, who I chose b/c they were voracious readers. That worked out pretty well, but again, I write thrillers, pretty straightforward stuff. If you're ever looking for a good editor, DM me. Good luck in your writing ventures!
It is. How would you best describe your genre?
Thanks for asking Sarah. Well...that's part of the challenge ;-)
I'm working on a book that spans science - philosophy/spirituality and is not self-help, although of course I want the content to provoke thought and hopefully new perspectives that could create change.
Because it's about the brain (from a non-anatomical, non-chemical approach), people interested in The Brain think they're perfect, but they tend to Get bored when I don't start talking about brain-bits and dopamine hits and instead head off into nonlinear systems and dancing brains.
I think I need to go Jeanine's way and get it off to an editor who Gets it. (Who will also be hard to find. I've had editors that have tried to turn it into a straight-up, very linear, science book or into a self-help coaching book, because they thought that's what would sell.
Long answer to a short question - sorry.
No reason to apologize! I think you described your situation perfectly. And yeah, finding the ideal editor is HARD. Keep all of us updated!
Everyone needs that honest friend
Yes we do. I recently tried to read another indie publisher's book and I was like, "Did you use a beta reader?" They really could have used some beta readers. Hard truths make us better writers.
Constructive honest friends is perhaps what I should have said
Constructive. Always constructive 😊💖
It is good advice. Having a reader is good not just for finding flaws in your work but also for getting input on which parts of your work are best. Some things I have written I felt were terrible, but since some readers enjoyed them, I know there are useful bits to take from them.
Yep. It works both ways. And transforms our final product.
This sounds like a good idea and something I'll consider. I just started writing microfictions. I stepped away from ready paperback books and during the past few years I had difficulty with holding my attention like I used to. I could barely sit through an audiobook longer than an hour LOL. Only read a short online articles and blogs. Now I'm getting back to that and believe that it'll help with my writing. Feeling much better about it. Thanks for sharing the tips!
Audio books have changed my life.
I studied Creative and Professional Writing at university, and that was also my first experience of being in a critique circle. It was hugely valuable, and I know if I were to join one know I'd get even more benefits from it. I am part of a writer community but sometimes I feel my area of writing is quite different from everyone else. That may be imposter syndrome, but it may also be in truth. If I were to write fiction today, it would be more commercial than what we know to be standard literature. Who knows. That being said, I was so very excited to join Substack because I heard of the incredible writing community on here. I've read a wide variety of stunning pieces, about a range of topics, and felt like maybe there is place for me here after all.
Anyway, I'm rambling! But I write this to say, this is a great post. We can all do so much individually, but we can do so much more with community. If you're reading this, I hope you find yours.
Thank you and I'm so glad that it spoke to you!
I joined my first ever writing group last year, and it’s been great! I’ve definitely learned a lot, but more than anything, I’ve been encouraged! Hearing a stranger tell me they like a scene really hits different than my mom saying she likes a scene (as much as I value her opinion.)
Yes! (And I get no feedback from my parents. Some days that's perfectly fine. Other days, I would like SOMETHING.)
I love this advice. I have a Substack that I am willing to share with the world, but I keep the fiction I write SO guarded. I have about two friends who I send every chapter that I write, and their input keeps me going, but at the same time it is so scary! It seems like this big hurdle that all writers have to overcome. Here's to libraries and writer groups and hopefully eventually finding the courage to branch out!
Thank you Sarah for this post. This definitely resonated with me as I feel the imposter syndrome on a regular basis. I've never gone to school or taken classes for writing, never had my work critiqued or torn apart (I have lots of this experience in art school though!) and never shared in a writing circle. It definitely does feel intimidating, though I know I would benefit. The only place I've shared my writing is on my substack. I think part of this is due to only very recently feeling comfortable to even call myself a writer. Definitely gave me something to think about!
*Shudder*