You’ve drafted. You’ve revised. You’ve edited. Now what? It’s time for a Beta Reader.
The Beta Read, also known as the Final Read, is a cold reading of your final draft before you self-publish or pitch to agents. If you’re happy after this, the next people to read your work will be online reviewers or agents, and I don’t know who’s more frightening.
You can treat the Beta Reader report as an extremely detailed review, with a star-rating and my verdict on whether it’s ready for the next step. The work must be one that I haven’t seen in full before.
Many authors conduct two rounds of beta readings. They fine-tune their novel after the first round and present it to different readers for the second round. I can only perform one beta reading on your novel, so I recommend it’s in the first round.
What do I need from you for a Beta Read?
Your complete final draft in Microsoft Word, OpenOffice/LibreOffice, Apple Pages or Google Doc format. PDF and ePub are acceptable, but they will require more time.
There are three tiers: up to 80,000 words, up to 100,000 words and up to 120,000 words.
What will you get from me?
Your 2,000-2,500 word report will include the ABCDs plus strengths and weaknesses in your structure, style, grammar or language, from the viewpoint of readers expecting a polished product.
If you’re self-publishing, the beta read report will include cover and design/layout notes. I will also highlight any issues of copyright and fair use.
Additional services include chapter-by-chapter notes, a sample of line edits if the piece has not been edited, and a Zoom consultation to discuss my feedback.
How long will a Beta Read take?
Alpha reports need 15-25 working days, depending on the length of the work. I will give you a delivery schedule when you submit your work and I’ve read your opening chapters.
Zoom consults must be scheduled within one month of receiving your report.
Pricing
How much does a Beta Read cost?
- Up to 80,000 words €400
- Up to 100,000 words €550
- Up to 120,000 words €700
Payment in £GBP, $USD and other non-Eurozone currencies.
Additional services
- Chapter-by-chapter notes €100
- Sample line edits (3 chapters, up to 10,000 words) €50
- Zoom consult (60 min) €100
You can request and schedule a Zoom consult up to one month after I deliver your report.
Payments from outside the Eurozone
I can accept payments in a variety of currencies, but exchange rates fluctuate and transaction fees vary depending on how you pay. Non-Euro prices will be calculated at final checkout based on current exchange rates and international transaction fees.