Why Hire a Beta Reader?

What’s a Beta Reader?

A beta reader is someone who reads your story in a mostly finished or partially finished form.

In the consumer industries, the term beta describes the rough release of a product. When new software is released, it can be the “in beta” version of the software until most of the kinks have been worked out and it’s ready for a full release. You’ve probably heard of “beta testers”, people who try products, including food. They assess the appealing and less attractive features and describe what worked or didn’t work before that product is released to the public.

Similarly, a beta reader receives an author’s written work before it is released to the public. They do not serve the function of editor, copyeditor, proofreader, or reviewer. Rather, beta readers will read your book ahead of publication and give you a detailed, honest opinion of your work. Doing so gives the author insight on possible ways to improve or modify the manuscript before publication.

Why Hire a Beta Reader?

Virtually anyone has the potential to be a free beta reader for you. You can ask family members, friends, work colleagues, or even neighbors to read your work and tell you what they think. There may be people on social media who would be willing to look at your work at no charge.

Returning to the old adage “You get what you pay for”, all beta readers are not equal. Your family and friends may not want to hurt your feelings, and they may feel pressured to avoid openly critiquing your hard work.

They may not view your manuscript as being a top priority. Deadlines may fluctuate, causing your release date to be postponed. Many volunteers may not follow through. More importantly, the feedback can be lackluster or non-specific, both of which can cause undue pressure on your personal relationships, and bring you no further than you were before.

Beyond Beta Reading™ Package

When you’re ready to be viewed as a professional author and elevate the quality of your work, you’ll understand the importance of using our Beyond Beta Reading™ Package. We are professionally committed to your work the moment your manuscript lands in our inbox.

Our Beyond Beta Readers give unique insight that reflects the perspective and reactions of your potential fans. We want your manuscript to be a success, and our readers make real observations, providing specific feedback that you can immediately put to use as you further prepare your manuscript for editing.

Our Beyond Beta Readers’ preferred genres include Upmarket Fiction, Romance (all subgenres), Teen / YA (all subgenres), Cozy Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
Nonfiction preferred genres include Self Improvement, Inspirational, New Age, and Personal Development.
Academic papers (specifically in the Social Sciences) also accepted for an additional fee.

Please review our FAQ before booking.