Feel free to leave the title, genre, one/two sentence pitch and your email to find betas!
laurapauling What a great topic! Crit partners and beta readers! #indiechat Hi everyone! -8:59 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon Alright, one minute early, but welcome to #Indiechat We are talking critique partners and beta readers! -9:00 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon I'm hosting tonight, but also watching Face Off, so just watch out for my live tweeting #Indiechat -9:01 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell probably helpful to explain the difference between betas and CPs for the folks who don't know... #indiechat -9:01 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn Awesome topic tonight! "critique partners and beta reader" So, so important for indie authors (really any author). #indiechat -9:01 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri RT @laurapauling: What a great topic! Crit partners and beta readers! #indiechat Hi everyone! -9:02 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon Let's throw it out there. What do YOU all think the differences are between a beta and a critique partner? #Indiechat -9:02 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Any writing advice, the top tip always seems to be find critique partners. #indiechat -9:02 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 Hi Everyone! #indiechat -9:02 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling For me, crit partners are more chapter to chapter or just the opening. Not as much big picture. #indiechat -9:02 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @EArroyo5 a welcome! We are talking crit partners and beta readers! #Indiechat -9:03 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell My CPs are the ones who read with a critical eye & catch everything on the micro and macro level; betas are more macro-only #indiechat -9:03 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri I think of beta readers for getting an overall opinion of the story, not necessarily critique of the actual writing. #indiechat -9:03 PM Aug 28th, 2012
DougSolter Yea! Made it to #indiechat -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @MaganVernon Ya know, I don't fuss much re:name. Just "people willing to read my stuff" - but diff people have diff strengths #indiechat -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon For me crit partners help with the technical and story changes, I use betas for flow. #Indiechat -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell picked up a tip at a conference for using teen betas: B, C, D (bored, confused, don't believe it). easy system for them to use #indiechat -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 CP's are more micro and macro. I see them as a marriage. While Betas are more folks you hang out with from time to time. #indiechat -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I def. count on betas for big picture, story structure...#indiechat -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather #indiechat So should I get a crit partner for a chapter by chapter thing? -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri How many betas/CPs does one writer need? #indiechat I wrestle with this a little. -9:04 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon How many CPs do you have? Betas? Does it vary on the story? #Indiechat -9:05 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn I did a series on my blog called Critique Wednesdays. Here's one that has tips on critiquing: http://t.co/tafweo32 #indiechat -9:05 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell I have two trusted CPs and I'll take as many beta readers as I can get #indiechat -9:05 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 My betas vary from story to story but CP's are more constant. #indiechat -9:05 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites I have people who read for story others for general errors (consistency) and then editors. About three levels of readers #indiechat -9:06 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @MaganVernon I try to match the story with beta reader's interests. Sometimes it matches up, but not always. #indiechat -9:06 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @SPNHeather With my CPs, we swap the hole manuscript and take to it with the track changes in word. #Indiechat -9:06 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @HeatherSunseri I have a Critquers of Awesome list-I'm always adding. Diff people are avail/helpful for diff books/types of crit #indiechat -9:06 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @SPNHeather that would probably be helpful. you need someone willing to invest time in your story. #indiechat -9:06 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I'm always looking for new beta readers so I don't burn out the ones I have. #indiechat -9:06 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn Smart! @laurapauling: Im always looking for new beta readers so I dont burn out the ones I have. #indiechat -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @LawsonWrites yeah, editors are a whole 'nother level. but I wouldn't pay for editing until I'd already had other CP eyes on it #indiechat -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather @JessieHarrell well junk! LOL can't use hubby then cause he is co-author #indiechat Where do you find them -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I have a three crit partners I met at the nescbwi conf. but we're not always at the same stage of dev. #indiechat -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri @susankayequinn Great idea, Susan. Thanks. And good point. People aren't always available exactly when you need them. #indiechat -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Hey guys! I almost decided not to be in #indiechat today, but... -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @SPNHeather I try not to do chap by chap. Maybe several sections or the final copy. Too much input on short parts gets confusing #indiechat -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I'm still looking for CPs and Betas. #indiechat -9:07 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri RT @laurapauling: I'm always looking for new beta readers so I don't burn out the ones I have. #indiechat //Great idea. -9:08 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @laurapauling @susankayequinn I had close to 7 for HTDA and practically all Btas for Mph #Indiechat -9:08 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero I recently beta read a published author's work. It was a time-taking yet fun experience. #indiechat -9:08 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Chapter to chapter critiques take so long, my crit partners never make it past Act I. #indiechat -9:08 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @SPNHeather I found folks on #yalitchat - there's a group there to find others. just make sure you like their writing style #indiechat -9:08 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @chihuahuazero Glad you're here! ;) #indiechat -9:08 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I burn out my CPs as I rely on them for high and low moments. #indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites I also try to find people interested in my particular subject (YA, Paranormal, Romance). #indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne Hi everyone! #indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero I still feel sorry for giving my betas my unfinished story before its time. Speaking of which... #indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @chihuahuazero Welcome in! #Indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @SPNHeather oh yeah, and I met a CP at an SCBWI conference (as well as many more potential ones, but time becomes a factor) #indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri I don't prefer chapter to chapter. I have trouble remembering what I read prior. I prefer trading entire manuscripts. #indiechat -9:09 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon If people are looking for CPs and betas this #Indiechat is also probably a good place to find them. -9:10 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 This might help: http://t.co/3I4rOy2l #indiechat -9:10 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @overdunne Welcome! #Indiechat -9:10 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn Very important in a crit partner @LawsonWrites: I find people interested in my particular subject (YA, Paranormal, Romance). #indiechat -9:10 PM Aug 28th, 2012
BooksOverBoys RT @MaganVernon: If people are looking for CPs and betas this #Indiechat is also probably a good place to find them. -9:11 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @HeatherSunseri I don't think chapter to chapter can replace a full beta. #indiechat -9:11 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell tip: when trying out a new CP, switch just a few chapters 1st. if you don't like their writing or feedback, no sense in going on #indiechat -9:11 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @susankayequinn But at the same time, I had an excellent beta who didn't write my genre. A very different perspective. #indiechat -9:11 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather @MaganVernon Oh , well I could use one :) I need someone who is not a "friend" and is willing to tell me when it sucks and such #IndieChat -9:11 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn I was actually part of critters. Had to let it go because of time. #indiechat -9:11 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn Excellent advice! @JessieHarrell: tip: when trying out a new CP, switch just a few chapters 1st. #indiechat -9:12 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero My betas did some proofreading of my earlier MS. Did the same happen to you? #indiechat -9:12 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I think Betas could be anyone, whether they read your genre or not. Watcha think? #indiechat -9:12 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon There are also national groups that have local chapters and are great to find CPs. Like SCWBI and RWA #Indiechat -9:12 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Ah! I haven't used it - so it's not just a matchmaker, there's a time committment? #indiechat -9:12 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @SPNHeather Maybe check back with me after my October deadline and A could be free :) #Indiechat -9:13 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Def. A mixed group is good. RT @EArroyo5: I think Betas could be anyone, whether they read your genre or not. Watcha think? #indiechat -9:13 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne Always looking for help getting things right, but I've decided beta is better for me. Like 2 keep things close until "finished" #indiechat -9:13 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I absolutely could not survive w/out betas! #indiechat -9:13 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero I once critiqued ten pieces in one week over at Critique Circle. Haven't been able to go back to the site. #indiechat -9:13 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather @MaganVernon Awesome! I'm doing YA paranormal romance ... and we are half into our first draft #IndieChat -9:14 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 They can be, but it helps if they understand genre conventions. Then again, a good CP can crit anything. #indiechat -9:14 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @EArroyo5 I want someone to beta who is interested in my genre. prefer teens so I get a sense of whether I've gotten YA voice #indiechat -9:14 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon Here is a touch question, how do you know when to dump a CP or beta and ow do you go about it? #Indiechat -9:14 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Opinions on teen betas for YA? #indiechat -9:14 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn There's a percentage of crits you have to maintain. At least once a week. #indiechat -9:14 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @SPNHeather Obviously I have the most random mixture of books in the world, ha, #Indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn "genre conventions"? #indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @SPNHeather it's great you're writing w/ someone. keeps u motivated and is a built in beta. 2 heads and all. #indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
patricialynne07 Lurking in #IndieChat. Talking beta and crit partners. =) -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Yeah, that wouldn't work for me either. My needs flex and so do other people's. #indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @chihuahuazero I had a teen beta. Loved it! #indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites While writing I really need someone on standby to throw ideas out to &help me keep on plot. Later I need more solid advice #indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @chihuahuazero LOVE them, as long as you give them guidelines for feedback. must tell them what expecting or will be generic #indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @chihuahuazero I used a teen beta once. She was helpful on lingo, but not structure. I use teens more as "consultants" #Indiechat -9:15 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @EArroyo5 @susankayequinn For example, the different romance "tropes" in YA. #indiechat -9:16 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeatherSunseri RT @chihuahuazero: Opinions on teen betas for YA? #indiechat //I plan to let my teen daughter read. Does that count? ;) -9:16 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Like, what YA readers expect vs. hard SF. Or cozy mysteries vs. romance. #indiechat -9:16 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather @JessieHarrell It's interesting esp. it being my husband and all :) #indiechat -9:16 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather @MaganVernon I like that though #indiechat -9:16 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn Gotcha. Makes sense. #indiechat -9:16 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @SPNHeather You're lucky! My husband barely reads my stuff AFTER it's published. LOL #indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling After I return a beta read with a new beta, I wait and see if they ask again. I like it to be a fair trade. #indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Finding teen betas will be easy for me. Go to lunch table, slam MS table, say "email me!" #indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne Hard to find a teen with the knowledge base/focus to be a true CP. But they are great for overall feel and 'lingo' #indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling My husband does not read my stuff. lol #indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon Okay, I'll throw a different question out there then. In person V online CPs. Who uses what? Do you like one better? #Indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @chihuahuazero goes back to my B, C, D advice. get them to write it in margins if they are bored, confused or don't believe it #indiechat -9:17 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @MaganVernon I don't think I'll face to face crit group again. #indiechat I like email. -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @MaganVernon I've done only online critiquing. Mostly through Google Docs, which is now Drive. #indiechat -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn I'm in the same boat. My kids won't read it either. They think it's too weird. lol #indiechat -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @chihuahuazero i have some that I ask general questions to but not really reading upfront. its not a bad idea though #indiechat -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon RT @overdunne: Hard to find a teen with the knowledge base/focus to be a true CP. But they are great for overall feel and 'lingo' #indiechat -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @MaganVernon I'm mostly online, although I have a monthly SCBWI crit group - they just don't have time to do the crits I need. #indiechat -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I know I couldn't do a face to face crit group. I have to process the info alone. #indiechat -9:18 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @chihuahuazero Ive never used Google Docs for critiquing, just word track changes. Hmmm. #Indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero It's fortunate that I have an author I can swap MSes with in the future. #indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
patricialynne07 @MaganVernon I had a friend who was an amazing crit partner. Then I had to move and she got busy with her kids. #indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @MaganVernon I'm all about online CPs. Even my one in-town CP, we still swap e-copies. im not productive face-to-face. #chitchat #indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @laurapauling Bad experience with face to face? #Indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 I just realized I have a teen CP - my kid! (He's a writer too) #indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @MaganVernon It's useful if you have more than one beta. I had them leave comments. #indiechat -9:19 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @laurapauling ha mine either. maybe at the very final edits. like, final. #indiechat -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Face to face groups are awesome for reading story openings - a few pages, you can see if you grab 'em. Or not. #indiechat -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @EArroyo5 I'm not sure if I have the PAPER to do face-to-face. #indiechat -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @susankayequinn We can bring five pages in to my RWA group a month. I use it a lot fr opening pages and romance help. #Indiechat -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @MaganVernon Not a bad exper. But it took up a lot of time. #indiechat I'd rather meet once a month but not twice a month. -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn I usually bounce ideas off my kids, but that's as far as they'll go. #indiechat -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon @patricialynne07 Losing an amazing cp sucks! #Indiechat -9:20 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @MaganVernon I have both, but the in person ones are just for my level 1 reading...content #indiechat -9:21 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn I'm just not brave enough to do that yet. =) #indiechat -9:21 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn RT @MaganVernon: We can bring five pages in to my RWA group a month. I use it a lot fr opening pages and romance help. #indiechat -9:21 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @susankayequinn I know LM Preston wrangles her kids into her writing. reads to them on road trips & gets feedback #indiechat -9:21 PM Aug 28th, 2012
patricialynne07 @MaganVernon I've lost a couple and have been struggling to find new ones. >.< #indiechat -9:21 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @chihuahuazero lol #indiechat -9:21 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MaganVernon I'm sorry #Indiechat but I have to bounce. The killer is whining. @susankayequinn @laurapauling and @JessieHarrell will take over! -9:22 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Find a friendly group - go first, don't bring pages, just listen. See if they're sharks. :) Then jump in. :) #indiechat -9:22 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @EArroyo5 I mean, I don't want to take the time to go to a printing place, and school won't like me using their printers. #indiechat -9:22 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 There's a RWA chapter near where I live. I should just do it. #indiechat -9:22 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @MaganVernon Have a good night, Magan! #indiechat -9:23 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @chihuahuazero I know what you mean. It can get pricey #indiechat -9:23 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @EArroyo5 totally. RWA or I know our local SCBWI chapter does the same thing at the end of the meetings. #indiechat -9:23 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 You're not in IL by chance, are you? I've been meaning to go to my local RWA - we could be buddies. :) #indiechat -9:24 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne Hardest part abt having a crit partner- u have 2 crit back! I love reading other's stuff-hard to give honest but pos criticism #indiechat -9:24 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @HeatherSunseri I can handle only so many crit partners. And I've had up to 4/5 betas on a story. #indiechat -9:24 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn Yeah. I can use a buddy. lol #indiechat -9:24 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @MaganVernon good luck! #indiechat -9:24 PM Aug 28th, 2012
kathkells I would LOVE to find a crit partner. Haven't had much luck these last few years. I write YA thrillers/horror, some contemp. #indiechat -9:25 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling What are some good guidelines for critiquing and beta reading? #indiechat -9:25 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Critiquing is something the TV Trope writing forum struggles with. Everyone wants a critique, but not TO critique. #indiechat -9:25 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @overdunne yes! sometimes it's more work to find the positive ... #indiechat -9:25 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell there is a free group on yalitchat that lets you get feedback on your first 5 and help others in return. good place to find CPs #indiechat -9:26 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Wait, you ARE in Illinois -what part? I'm thinking of going to the northwest suburbs chapter - DesPlaines? #indiechat -9:26 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling How many of you follow that sandwich rule? #indiechat -9:26 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn http://t.co/tafweo32 @laurapauling: What are some good guidelines for critiquing and beta reading? #indiechat -9:26 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Two positive comments for every negative. I think that applies more to chapter critiques though. #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites Critiquing is hard. My early partners were harsh and set me up to handle almost anything. I try to do the same back. #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn Me too! I live in Chicago. #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @laurapauling I aim for more 50/50. #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @laurapauling I think when critiquing, it's very important not to make the story yours. stick w/in the authors' vision. #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @chihuahuazero This is why swaps are the way to go-I do yours, you do mine (not necessarily at the same time). Accountability #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling not really sandwich, but I try to always end on a good note. #indiechat -9:27 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 Balance the good with the not so good as honestly as you can. #indiechat -9:28 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @susankayequinn Thinking about it, that's something they haven't really tried out. #indiechat -9:28 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @ondinal_songs It varies, but it's more of a community than many of the writer's forums I've joined. #indiechat -9:28 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @JessieHarrell That's a great one. One that all writers learn. To respect an author's vision for their story. #indiechat -9:28 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne RT @JessieHarrell:I think when critiquing, its very important not to make the story yours. stick w/in the authors vision. <-agree #indiechat -9:29 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell I also try to tell the author WHY I don't understand something. maybe it's intentional on their part or they overlooked it #indiechat -9:29 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling At the same time, I'm not a newbie and don't need false praise. I just want to make the story better. #indiechat -9:29 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell yep! RT @laurapauling: At the same time, Im not a newbie and dont need false praise. I just want to make the story better. #indiechat -9:30 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling So much of the criticism is in how we phrase our words. I don't use words like, "Um, really?" #indiechat -9:30 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Has anyone have any trouble not overhauling a story's prose while being a beta? #indiechat -9:30 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 RT @JessieHarrell: there is a free group on yalitchat that lets you get feedback on your first 5 and help others in return. #indiechat -9:30 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5 Email me! Maybe we can meet up in an RWA mtg in Sept. susankayequinn@comcast.net #indiechat -9:30 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @overdunne It's hard for me to word my negative thoughts in a good way, if that makes sense. #indiechat -9:31 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @chihuahuazero Honestly, during a beta, I stay away from the prose unless I notice a pattern. #indiechat -9:31 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @JessieHarrell Also agree! I try to tell author where my eye stuck. Where things were confusing. And where I went 'Yes!' #indiechat -9:31 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @laurapauling Yeah, sarcastic crits = not so much helpful! #indiechat -9:31 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn Will do. =) #indiechat -9:32 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @chihuahuazero I'm technical, so I'll jump on commas & such, but leave the prose alone unless really awkward #indiechat -9:32 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @EArroyo5 Yep. I understand that one. Sometimes things are just bad. But it's always a start for better. #indiechat -9:32 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I always try and ask the writer what stage the manuscript is in. I'll beta differently for a more polished draft. #indiechat -9:32 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn @EArroyo5: @overdunne Keep it personal, meaning "this doesn't work for me" or "I don't understand this" #indiechat -9:32 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @JessieHarrell I try to stay with technical, but it gets foggy when description comes into play. #indiechat -9:33 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling How have most of you found your beta readers or crit partners? #indiechat -9:33 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @overdunne Yes! And it's subjective anyway. It's just my thoughts and I make that as clear as I can. #indiechat -9:33 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell RT @laurapauling I always try and ask the writer what stage the manuscript is in. Ill beta differently for a more polished draft. #indiechat -9:33 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I found my crit partner through blogs. #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn Blogs, chats (!), in person, conferences... @laurapauling: How have most of you found your beta readers or crit partners? #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell I think giving feedback to others is a great way to fine tune your editing skills for use on your own work. #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Froze8 @MaganVernon I love beta reading! :) #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling Twitter! I have one dear and HONEST friend who helps me with small sticky parts though... #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @laurapauling other writers. Some readers. Most through online networks #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 RT @JessieHarrell: I think giving feedback to others is a great way to fine tune your editing skills for use on your own work. #indiechat -9:34 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @susankayequinn @laurapauling Friends, in my one/two "major" beta read attempt. #indiechat -9:35 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LynAlmodovar RT @JessieHarrell: I think giving feedback to others is a great way to fine tune your editing skills for use on your own work. #indiechat -9:35 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell My CPs have come from conferences, yalitchat and a "love connection" (mutual friend introduced us) #indiechat -9:35 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne I am open to beta'ing for folks, but I don't have anything ready for trade right now. Will soon...about 15k left in current WIP #indiechat -9:35 PM Aug 28th, 2012
susankayequinn I have to run - have fun indiechatters! #indiechat -9:35 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell My betas are typically my non-writing friends or their kids who don't mind giving feedback or talking through plot, etc. #indiechat -9:35 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @susankayequinn Good night! #indiechat -9:36 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I love having a few where we'll always be willing to trade work. Other betas might end up being a one time thing. That's okay. #indiechat -9:36 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling At what point in your manuscript do you ask for beta reads or chapter crits? #indiechat -9:36 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 @susankayequinn night. #indiechat -9:36 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero I'm not sure if I should offer to beta read or not, but I'm open in the future. #indiechat -9:37 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @laurapauling Last time, I asked too early. I'm waiting until I have a more polished draft. #indiechat -9:37 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling after editing first draft. #indiechat -9:37 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I ask for betas after the ms is as polished as I could get it. CPs look at it much earlier. #indiechat -9:37 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne Me too. I try and do all the major rewrites I can do. Then I ask for betas. #indiechat -9:38 PM Aug 28th, 2012
patricialynne07 I ask for betas after a complete rewrite a few more read throughs. #indiechat -9:38 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @laurapauling either about midway--if I need plotting advice or when I'm finished. #indiechat -9:38 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @chihuahuazero I think beta reading is faster than being a CP - CPs have to be more critical IMO #indiechat -9:38 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I don't want to start polishing to realize a big plot hole is glaring at me. #indiechat -9:39 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell agree --> RT @EArroyo5: I ask for betas after the ms is as polished as I could get it. CPs look at it much earlier. #indiechat -9:39 PM Aug 28th, 2012
EArroyo5 I gotta go. Great chat. #indiechat -9:39 PM Aug 28th, 2012
MichWritesBooks @jessieharrell @laurapauling Yes! This! #IndieChat -9:39 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @EArroyo5 Good night! #indiechat -9:39 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling But I'll let the reader know that no one else has read it yet. Those betas have the toughest job. #indiechat -9:40 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore Late but thrilled to be here! Betas are gold! #Indiechat -9:40 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling Feels sloppy if I haven't had at least 1 edit. Couldn't bear to share it before...unless it's just a part or scene #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @Addison_Moore Hey there! *waves* #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @EArroyo5 night, night! #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @HeatherSunseri I agree! And so nice to see you, girl! #Indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Thinking, my early betas were alphas. #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne That would have to be someone I knew well and trusted. #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Usually I do some big rewrites have the first beta read. Gets easier after that. #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @EArroyo5 good night #indiechat -9:41 PM Aug 28th, 2012
kramerhendricks RT @chihuahuazero: Thinking, my early betas were alphas. #indiechat -9:42 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LynAlmodovar RT @EArroyo5: I ask for betas after the ms is as polished as I could get it. CPs look at it much earlier. #indiechat -9:42 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Maybe I should leave early...but I don't know what to first. Blog post, typing up rough draft, getting back to novel... #indiechat -9:42 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling also personally feel I'd be wasting their time if it wasn't ready for other eyes. #indiechat -9:42 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites I've also started drafting the whole story & then put it "away" for a bit. During that time I get out the prior book and polish #indiechat -9:42 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne I agree. I do all the work I can do first. #indiechat -9:42 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LynAlmodovar RT @laurapauling: But I'll let the reader know that no one else has read it yet. Those betas have the toughest job. #indiechat -9:43 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @SPNHeather Absolute write forums? Not sure about that one. @NathanBransford has forums you might try. @JessieHarrell #Indiechat -9:43 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Has anyone ever had a partner read over an outline or synopsis? #indiechat -9:43 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell so it seems like most people use betas later for polishing and CPs early to vet out the bugs/holes/etc. #indiechat -9:43 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I found long time friends and crit partners on Critique Circle. #indiechat -9:43 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I don't frequent it very often anymore though. Great place to get started. #indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @SPNHeather I still think friends and family are great too!!!! ;) @JessieHarrell #Indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne One thing I do like about betas- the feeling of a deadline. If I know I've got a time to work toward I work more efficiently. #indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
SPNHeather @Addison_Moore Thank you so much Addison! #indiechat @JessieHarrell -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @laurapauling oh, I did that with my recent novel idea. wanted to see if CP thought plot sounded engaging enough. #indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @JessieHarrell I use a beta after major rewrites and also after I polish...just to make sure. #indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero @laurapauling Me either. #indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @LawsonWrites I agree. Time apart always helps. #Indiechat -9:44 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @Addison_Moore true. I get hubby to listen to my guy dialog so he can tell me how to make it sound more "guy" #indiechat -9:45 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling How has the critique process changed for any of you with self publishing? #indiechat -9:45 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling I don't feel like I have time for a 6 month chapter to chapter crit like I used to. #indiechat Not sure anyone does. -9:46 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @Addison_Moore yes. and i use different readers for each time. By the time the 1st readers see it finished it's a different book #indiechat -9:46 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @laurapauling *Hugs Laura* #Indiechat -9:46 PM Aug 28th, 2012
KristineAsselin @laurapauling Saw your thread about #betas on #indiechat...I'm about half way. Not that I'm feeling guilty about being slow or anything. :) -9:46 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @laurapauling what do you mean how? #indiechat -9:46 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling I'm still feeling it out. Today is official epub day on Amazon for debut novel (shameless self promo) so still new! #indiechat -9:47 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @LawsonWrites Same here. It always keeps morphing. #Indiechat -9:47 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @laurapauling Time is a factor with indie publishing, but so is quality & I want as many eyes on my work as I can get. #indiechat -9:47 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @LawsonWrites I find myself not languishing over the opening like I did before querying agents. #indiechat -9:47 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne YOu released your novel today? #indiechat -9:48 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @laurapauling yes! totally! I know exactly what you mean. I now write for the reader not the agent #indiechat -9:48 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @laurapauling Yes! Today is my book birthday, AND my real birthday! :) :) #indiechat -9:49 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @overdunne CONGRATS! That's awesome. #indiechat -9:49 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne Mind you, still working with Createspace for the paperback version. #indiechat -9:49 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne Okay, share the link and title, please! #indiechat Congrats! -9:49 PM Aug 28th, 2012
Addison_Moore @overdunne Happy double birthday!!!! @laurapauling #Indiechat -9:50 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @overdunne I did the same thing when I released Destined last year (on my b-day) = double cause to celebrate! #indiechat -9:50 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne So cool. Happy Birthday! #indiechat -9:50 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero Going to write a blog post. G'night fellow writers! #indiechat -9:50 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LawsonWrites @overdunne congrats! #indiechat -9:50 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne @JessieHarrell :) Thanks! It's been a super birthday for me. #indiechat -9:50 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell I'm thinking we should have a way for ppl here tonight to swap info if they are looking for betas/CPs. #indiechat -9:51 PM Aug 28th, 2012
patricialynne07 @overdunne Congrats and happy birthday! =D #indiechat -9:51 PM Aug 28th, 2012
chihuahuazero RT @JessieHarrell: I'm thinking we should have a way for ppl here tonight to swap info if they are looking for betas/CPs. #indiechat -9:51 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell feel free to leave a comment on the Indelibles blog under the transcript post if you're looking... #indiechat -9:52 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @chihuahuazero Good night! Glad you stopped by! #indiechat -9:52 PM Aug 28th, 2012
overdunne It's called TREASURE IN THE FLAME (YA historical fiction/fantasy) and can be found here... http://t.co/MGl2GT9i #indiechat -9:52 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling Good idea. RT @JessieHarrell: feel free to leave a comment on the Indelibles blog under the transcript post if you're looking... #indiechat -9:52 PM Aug 28th, 2012
HeyItsFishy RT @JessieHarrell: feel free to leave a comment on the Indelibles blog under the transcript post if you're looking... #indiechat -9:52 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell http://t.co/iTWtJLBs leave your name, contact and the genre you write #indiechat -9:53 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling RT @overdunne: It's called TREASURE IN THE FLAME (YA historical fiction/fantasy) and can be found here... http://t.co/tlqp6zmD #indiechat -9:53 PM Aug 28th, 2012
LM_Preston Sorry I missed most of #indiechat -9:53 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling @overdunne Sounds terrific. I love treasure maps! #indiechat -9:54 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell @LM_Preston awww... missed you. you were one of my first (& greatest) beta readers. #indiechat -9:54 PM Aug 28th, 2012
laurapauling any other comments or questions about crit partners and/or beta readers? #indiechat -9:55 PM Aug 28th, 2012
IndieAuthorNews INDIE or TRADITIONAL: Should you make the Jump? ? http://t.co/ys7V81ur ? #WritingTips #IndieChat #SelfPub -9:55 PM Aug 28th, 2012
JessieHarrell oh, final tip: find out what the person ur reading for wants. if they don't want line edits, don't waste ur time #indiechat -9:55 PM Aug 28th, 2012
