I have been a beta reader for my friend Debbie Ellen Carr who has been writing Balancing Syrestia, and have so far have enjoyed every minute of her books.
It got me thinking though that I would love ot become a beta reader for other authors too. So I was told to come on here and let you all know who I am.
Sarah
It is not like an editor. However, I'm not sure about all Beta readers. Sarah and I have worked together since I finished my first ever draft of book 1 (and believe me it was awful). Now, she's pretty much as involved - emotionally - in the story as I am.
I have paid for an editorial service with Cornerstones and that was completely different. However, both Sarah and I could see the difference after my reworks.
What I'm trying to say is that she reads my books for me and tells me what she likes and doesnt like, what I should explore more or where she hopes i'll end up. It's really been invaluable in keeping me going!
With regards to how I have helped debbie, I read through the book looking for spelling mistakes, etc.. and also something that might not read quite right to someone actually reading rather than how the author reads it, hope that makes sense. I also never knew what a Beta reader was until debbie asked me to read her books, I am always reading books, I am a stay home mum as I am disabled and so spend alot of time reading, and have decided that it would be nice to offer my services to others, plus it gives me something to do in my spare time. As regards prices etc, tbh I have no idea as I have never offered to do this before, but always happy to help out if I can.
Sarah
Hi as I'm new to the reality of the writing world, because I never ventured beyond my own laptop till I joined a writers group and now this, I have no idea what a beta reader is. When I first saw it in a post I wrongly assumed "it" to be a device, something like a kindle. Go on laugh, I would have. so down to the nitty gritty, do you get more than feed back is it something like an editor would do, and the cost is it realistic. There I think that covers most of my ignorance on this subject. Regards Paul.