Beta Readers Unite!

Hitting “publish” on my search for beta readers might just be the scariest thing I’ve done yet as a writer.

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I am FINALLY at the point in my writing journey where I am looking for beta readers!

What a completely humbling and mildly terrifying concept, to let fresh eyes get a take on your work. To give you feedback…to say, “Wow this story was amazing!” or, “You’ve got a real snoozer here.” My heart beats with dread at the latter.

BUT, you can’t progress as a writer unless you touch base with your target audience. After all, if they don’t like it, who else besides parents or siblings will ever read it?

Sending Out the Call

So, today I sent a reel out into the void (it’s here for your viewing pleasure) asking for brave souls to take this journey with me.

Like I said…terrifying.

If you’d like to be part of this journey, I’ve created a short form on my website (here) with a few questions for potential beta readers to answer, just to be sure we’re both a good match for each other. No experience needed, just honesty, a willingness to share constructive criticism, and a love for the written word.

My book is a women’s fiction based on real life twists, a spark of faith and a touch of romance. So if you’re looking for James Bond or Freddy Krueger, you won’t find them here.

The Vulnerable Side of Writing

The vulnerable aspect of being a writer is so very real. I don’t think it’s something I thought too much about at the beginning of this journey. But it’s staring me in the face these days. Daring me to be brave and not to hide even though some days that’s exactly what I want to do.

I wrote my book to be an encouragement to anyone who might be struggling on their own journey. To remind them that even in the darkest days, there is always light waiting to break through. If my book impacts even one person, this journey of endless edits, uncomfortable reels, and dealing with imposter syndrome will have been more than worth it.

What About You?

When was the last time you were vulnerable in what you were pursuing? Maybe it’s a goal you’ve set for yourself, or a new skill you’re trying to learn? No matter what it is, if it’s on your heart, don’t let anything or anyone veer you from your path.

I’ve said it many times before and it’s something I believe with all my heart…the desires that are seated deep within us are there for a reason. And you are the only one that can bring the results to fruition. They may be just for you; they may be for someone else, too. But by not giving up and continuing to go after your heart’s desires, you have no idea the impact you might make on someone else’s life.

And doesn’t that just make it all worth it?

Let’s Talk

I’d love to hear your take on this, and what you’ve been pursuing with vulnerability. Let me know in the message section on the “contact page”, I love reading your messages.

Don’t forget to sign up to be a beta reader if this speaks to you. I would be honored to have you join me. You’ll be one of the first to read my story, and your insights could impact not only my book, but also the readers who will one day hold it in their hands.

Never give up!