by Elizabeth S. Craig, @elizabethscraig
The pre-publication process can have a lot going on. For me, it often seems like a whirlwind of edits, pre-orders, and newsletters.
Part of that process is getting my book in the best possible shape it can be for readers upon release. To ensure this, I use a team of people to help me out.
I no longer use critique partners, although they were a big help to me when I was starting out. Whereas beta readers are readers, critique partners are other writers. That’s the biggest difference. With a CP, you’re also expected to help the other writer out with their own projects. When I had CPs, I was in a group that met locally in the Charlotte area. There were 4 other women and we met weekly and exchanged chapters. I will say one problem that I did notice with CPs is that it’s sort of like playing tennis. You don’t get a lot out of it if you’re the best player or the worst.
I do use beta readers. These betas are some of my most avid readers. They usually ended up on my team because they reached out to tell me that they love my books . . . but that I’ve gotten something wrong. That’s exactly the kind of reader I’m looking for to help me out. I want to hear all about my mistakes, whether they’re typos, a character acting out of character, or inconsistencies in one particular book or in the series as a whole. I try to give my betas an edited copy of my manuscript (edited by my freelance editor). If I’m really short on time, I apologize and give them an unedited copy but ask them to focus more on the story and the big picture than any line editing work. I think it’s very helpful to hear their thoughts on pacing and whether there were any confusing points during the story. I use 3-4 betas for every book (some have their favorite series, so I have different numbers for different books).
One quick point. While I use betas generally post-editing, newer writers might want to use them pre-editing. If betas find errors for free, that will save you on editing costs.
I also use ARC readers. An ARC is an advanced reader copy. I’m currently using 21 ARC readers. I usually set the book up for pre-order, then load my epub, PDF, and mobi files on Prolific Works (I also have Book Funnel, but I’ve been using Prolific Works practically since its inception. It’s just a matter of old dog, new tricks for me.) I share a link for free copies to the ARC readers in their preferred format. The main job for my ARC readers is to leave an early review for the release. But I also ask them to please let me know of any errors they see. I love stomping those out before the book launches. And, often, they do email me to let me know of typos that somehow made it through the edits.
You can see why it feels a little like a whirlwind! But at the end of the process, I’m always confident I’ve got a pretty solid book for sale.
Do you use betas, CPs, or ARC readers? How does the process work for you? And thanks to Teresa for prompting this post!
Betas, Critique Partners, and ARC Readers: Click To Tweet
It is a whirlwind, Elizabeth, but it's so worth it to have trustworthy people read a book before it's sent out. I've got some great beta readers and I'm so happy I do. I actually think choice of beta readers is an important decision. They have to be people who are supportive and positive, but honest enough, too, to tell you where your story has problems.
Betas can really make all the difference!
I have two beta readers and usually use three critique partners before sending my manuscript to my publisher. You're right that they find very different things because I need to know what's wrong with a story before I edit it to death.
It’s good to diagnose issues before editing, for sure!
I still have a couple of CPs but could use more betas. Readers are so good at catching character and story flaws.
They really are. It’s a tremendous help to us.
I have a CP and use ARC readers. I'd like to have a Beta reader or 2, but struggle to reach out to people. One day!!
It is indeed a whirlwind in this business – but at least it's fun!
It can be a fun job, for sure!
I tend to use some of my avid readers as reviewers rather than beta readers. (My poor husband is usually one of them – LOL!)
That’s a great way to do it! :)
I've been with my critique partners for well over a decade. There are 3 of us, and we do everything on line, so everyone can work at their own pace as far as submitting chapters. I've used beta readers a few times, but my critique partners are basically the same thing. I do use ARC readers. And, of course, I also use an editor.
Having an online CP group would be much easier!
I appreciate you covering the differences in the readers you use. As I was reading this article, I thought, wow, to be in a place where I don't need or use critique partners. :) A dream! I will look up Prolific Works and Book Funnel. I'm not familiar with either.
As always, I learn from your experience. Thank you for sharing.
Teresa
Thanks for suggesting the post!
Hi Elizabeth – it's fascinating to see how you work your books through … and as you mention you build up a trusted group of 'helpers' … also once you've set the wheels in motion … I can quite see you then need to keep up with all the answers or questions arising … thank you for this, also Teresa for her prompt. Cheers Hilary
It’s really a team effort for each book. I guess it takes a village to publish a book, ha. And you’re right about keeping up with the suggestions, etc. I save each person’s edits in a file titled with their name in the folder my manuscript is in on my laptop. Then I work through them, accepting most of their critique notes.