I've asked before, but never having gotten a response, and with nowhere else to turn ...
I need some beta-readers to help me spot problems (plot holes, or unexpected reader reactions to the existing storyline). So, Lazeez, I'd like to formally request that we create (or merge it into the existing "Editor" list) a facility to request Reader beta-readers (i.e. not asking existing editors to take on yet another task).
I'd also like to request any readers who'd be interested in getting advance copies of stories (and helping influence the overall quality of future stories) to volunteer to be beta-readers, either for me, or anyone who needs them.
I've found that editors are louth to weigh in on artistic issues, and generally won't touch these issues with a ten-foot pole (and can't spot them even when they do).
Now, for those of you unfamiliar with beta-readers, they are normally regular readers, unversed and mostly uninterested in the precise English grammar constructs, who'll review (read) a pending story/novel and point out any issues (for me, points when they can't read any more, often putting the book down because a particular passage bothers them so much).
They're mainly focused on 'perceptions', rather than form or structure, as there are always certain readers who'll interpret a story differently than most others will, often taking offense at specific passages based on their personal history's, rather than with the actual story.
However, it's important for authors to recognize any likely misreadings of their books, so they can head them off at the pass, either laying the groundwork ahead of time or explaining how those exceptions are not the intent of the characters.
So, if we have anyone interested, please drop me a line. If Lazeez won't create a separate facility for it, I won't object to creating my own, linking interested readers with potential beta-readers (including walking anyone through the process).
