When you're working on your manuscript, readers are invaluable. My beta readers have found errors I'd never even thought of, provided critique that's more valuable than gold and kept me motivated to finish my manuscript. Here are some ways you can find readers of your own.
Writing Groups
You can often find local or online writing groups to trade your work with other writers. You can search online using platforms like Meetup or Facebook Groups with keywords like "[your city] writing group”.
Groups often cater to specific genres, giving you access to readers familiar with your niche. This is great for finding beta readers, but many groups also do let you promote your published work.
Social Media
I may have mentioned how I used Instagram to find my (amazing) beta readers. You don’t need 1000 or even 100 followers to do the same.
Use relevant hashtags like #betareaders, #[your genre]writer, #writingcommunity and post about your project. I made you a free tutorial if you need a hand...
(This was 5 months ago when I was still super shy on the mic so please forgive my weird little voice. I'm an adult woman, no clue why I sound like a Victorian orphan in this).
Paid Websites
If you’re willing to shell out for readers, fair play, here are some resources where you can find readers. Disclaimer: I’ve never used these! This isn’t an endorsement!
Beta Readers
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- The Niche Reader
ARC Readers
- BookSirens
- NetGalley
- BookFunnel
Critique Swaps
If you’re still working on your manuscript, you could benefit from a critique swap. They’re (typically) free but the only “downside” is that they require your time and energy to reciprocate the feedback.
Personally I really enjoy doing this, but if you don’t have the time/energy then it might be worth it to consider the options on the previous slide. Websites for this include Critique Circle and Reddit.
