Greetings Community--One thing I wanted to point out based on a recent (for substantial pay) experience I had with a freelance editor. While I thought I was clear in terms of the "Project Brief," based on what I received, either a) I wasn't or b) his editorial super powers may not have been the right fit. So here's what I might humbly suggest--when possible, be super specific on what you are looking for. Even the pros might find going through a 321 page manuscript a challenging task if they don't know what you think the problems are with your own novel. (I can "feel" the problems in mine--and I didn't want line edits on the things that readers agree work really well.) This editor really liked my novel--but I think his vision for it (i.e to make it more literary than what my skill set is capable of) and my desire to stay in the upmarket space were at odds. I don't know if my rambling post makes sense--but if I had to do it over again, I would treat it like I would any other business project I went out to "bid" on--i.e. specific deliverables and desired outcomes. Hope this is helpful! (And not too biz-nerdy.)
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE: Hi, I’m Jennifer Risi and I’ve been working on My Celebrity Boyfriend, a dual-POV Contemporary Romance, in which the editor of an anonymous celebrity gossip account starts a relationship with a soap opera actor without telling him about her side hustle - one she desperately needs to afford a surgery she can’t live a normal life without. I’ve been through several rounds of trivia in a and would love some fresh critique on the story, pacing, character development, and whether the chronic illness representation overshadows the love story. I’d be happy to swap critiques, I *love* reading other work! My email is jenniferrisiwrites@gmail.com
Jenny, I am a bit late because I was traveling. I would be interested in reading your work. I wrote a multicultural women’s novel ( so a different genre) but I read a lot of different genres. Let me know if you would like me to read the first 50 pages to start and we can go from there?
FANTASY - Hi, I’m Megan Lynae Green, and I’m currently working on Sapphire Secret, a book full of magic gems, curses, romance, and explorations of mental health. In this book, the MC, Sabrina, is convinced she is the lost princess of the fallen Sapphire Kingdom and seizes the chance to attend a royal ball to prove her identity—only for a familiar pirate captain to upend her plans and steal a precious sapphire. Meanwhile, Ava of the conquering Amethyst Kingdom struggles to undo a curse she accidentally unleashed. Both women are drawn into a quest to recover the stolen gem, with Sabrina fighting for her homeland’s legacy and Ava for her kingdom’s salvation. As their paths collide, they must confront their intertwined destinies in the Gem Empire, even if it puts them at odds. Feel free to email me at mlg.author12@gmail.com
ROMANCE FANTASY/ROMANTASY - Hi, writer friends! I'm looking for some feedback on my debut romantasy novel, The Ash Trials.
✨ Deadly trials, enemies to lovers — all set on an island that conjures the competitor’s worst fears to use against them.
📚 The opening image: our hero waking up in a ruined wedding dress with no memory of who she is — or who she was about to marry. Then, she realizes she’s the only powerless mortal in a prison full of the most dangerous magical criminals — and she’ll need to win the Ash Trials to survive.
❤️ I pulled inspiration from my absolute favorites — THRONE OF GLASS, THE HUNGER GAMES, ACOTAR, and THE BOURNE IDENTITY. It is a bit spicy, FYI!
Looking for some beta readers who would be interested in reading the first 20 pages. Happy to read fellow romantasy authors, too. My email is amy at amysuto dot com :)
Hi! I’m Marylee Pangman, and I’m writing a series of books about five strong, successful women navigating the challenges of rediscovering purpose and fulfillment in their later years. Each book focuses on one of these women, her journey to overcome personal obstacles, and the deep friendships that support her along the way.
I’m looking for beta readers to review my first serialized chapters (~1500-1800 words each) and share feedback on whether the stories will inspire readers to recommend them to friends. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, please drop me a line at tucsonpots@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!
YA FANTASY: Hello everyone. I’m Fiona and I’ve recently finished the 4th draft of my novel. It’s ‘done’ but not fine-tuned and I would love some fresh eyes to help make it better. At 130000 words it’s also probably too long. So what is it? It’s the story of Maeva - girl, rebel, failed saviour - and how she fights the king who is suppressing magic (and therefore destroying the land), butts heads with the crown prince, and uses her magical powers to spur along a sputtering rebellion effort. She has to reckon with her past before she can fulfil her potential and shape the future. The narrative is mostly in the present with memories of what happened in her past blended throughout.
Whether you want to read a few pages or the whole thing, I’d be grateful! And happy to return the favour. My email is everafterhappily [at] gmail [dot] com
Hi, my debut novel is about four Latinas that have mishaps with technology ( texts, emails, voicemail…) that leave them estranged from loved ones. They form a book club that becomes a place to discuss books ( a little), life ( a lot) and enjoy Latin food and music. Over the span of a year these four women become the found family they didn’t know they needed to forgive themselves and others , to move past heartbreak and to find joy within.
If this sounds like something might want to read a few chapters of and give feedback on, I’d be happy to return the favor. My email is ipvrincon@gmail.com
Hiya Lovelies, I'm Kiki and I've been working on a debut novel (potentially), 'Call of the Wild,' is a Fantasy Adventure novel with high stakes, found family and deadly games. After being wrongly banished by her tribe from her homeland, Saria Clovercress forms an alliance with an unlikely band of adventurers, The Ashen Order, on their last quest before retirement. But when their employer, the Grand Sorcerer Ser Raexius, pushes the group to their limit, the group begin questioning his true intentions for calling upon the specific group. In the heat of the gruelling trials, Saria must learn to control her power before losing everything she holds dear. (roughly 84k words, in the first draft but would benefit from fresh perspectives). My email is thecosycalico@gmail.com
I am an avid bookworm, I've read many ARC's for authors. My opinions are always my own. I *love* to read any genre, however contemporary romance and fantasy are my favourite to read.
LITERARY FICTION – Hello all. I’m Rich Scorza, and I hope this is a fit. I’m currently working on a collection of short stories with the working book title “Gray Clouds”. The stories portray the very real world of today’s seniors, covering topics such as intimacy, “gray divorce,” end of life, sexuality, and loneliness, challenging lingering clichés that are reflected in movies, writings, and across an uninformed media. The collection will carry 60k – 80k words. I’ve drafts on seven stories so far. The story for here is “Hearts” (2644 words). Two couples, four older folks (sixty-two – seventy-five), on a December night in Minneapolis playing the card game hearts over cocktails, dive into discussions on the meaning of being older and facing death. The night is the three year anniversary of the death of one of the players deceased spouse’s, and conflict arises as each must contend where their own fears. Hoping someone will see some value. Also, I’m open to reading and throwing my two cents in, helping where I can. Cheers.
Hi Rich. I know i am super late to the party, but I'd love to read your book and help. I write queer historical romance, but am totally fine with not receiving feedback in return. My Email is: tali.sarnetzky@gmail.com
SCI-FI/FANTASY - I'm Emma Finn, and I am working on a 121K word science fiction fantasy book about long-lost twins finding their way back to each other with magic, spaceships, and a found family trope. I've been writing it since 2020 and have edited it like crazy. I'm querying agents, but I could use a second set of eyes (or more!) to help me make it even better. I'd love to give feedback as well. You can reach me at emmamariefinn@outlook.com
HORROR -- Hi, I'm Andy Zetzman, and for the last year and change I've been working on my horror story, Bury Your Skeletons. Here's the blurb I have written, should it entice you to read further:
Imagine being haunted by ghosts from a past that isn’t yours.
Paul Callahan is seeing visions of terrible, violent memories he's convinced aren't his. But as a recovering alcoholic, he can't be certain that they aren’t from a life he doesn't remember. And each vision ends the same way: with a mysterious visit from a ghostly skeleton. The monster has a mission for Paul, and it’s up to him to solve the mysteries and unravel a cold case that’s very much close to home.
I've just completed my fourth (!!!) revision and am in the process of girding myself against the querying gauntlet. If there's anyone out there willing to give it a read and offer up your thoughts, I'd very much appreciate it. I would definitely be willing to do the same for you. The manuscript is about 75K words.
MEMOIR - Hi, I’m Mary Leavines , and I’m about to wrap up some edits to my debut memoir. The manuscript outlines my long walk: from Georgia to Maine during my 2022 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, from Catholicism to religious deconstruction, marriage to divorce, seemingly having all the answers to embracing uncertainty, and the absolute necessity of listening to your inner knowing - no matter what it may cost you. My manuscript explores themes of religious deconstruction, the unexpected alchemy of grief, and the liberation of radical vulnerability: all framed by a casual 2,200-mile walk I went on to clear my head. I’m looking for beta readers who can weigh in on the pacing as I bounce between the past and my thru-hike, the characterization of the incredible people I met along the way, and overall flow of the story. You can reach me at contact@maryleavines.com .
HORROR - I’m Monica Brown, and I’m currently working on The Vanishing Chair, a chilling horror novel that dives into generational curses, betrayal, and redemption. This is my debut manuscript, and it’s been through several rounds of revisions, but I’d love some fresh perspectives on pacing and character development (is the ending satisfying??). Happy to swap critiques or brainstorm ideas for your project! You can reach me at Graciouslyimperfect09@gmail.com.
Hi! what is the word count on your novel? I have a 38k post-apocalyptic novella I would love a horror authors eye on, but I want to make sure I can 100% provide the same for you. Thanks!
YA FANTASY - Hey! Had some issues with posting here so hopefully this works now! My name is CJ Redgrave and I’m writing a fantasy book for children/ya about a magical shop run by a colourful and unlikely cast. Expect magical mayhem and silly humour. Everything from wizards and witches to singing frogs and sarcastic crows (the usual things of course). I’d like someone to read the opening chapters to see if the story has a good hook, and if all goes well hopefully find a beta reader! If you’re interested, I’d love to read what you’re working on as well. Let me know on cjr3dgrave2@gmail.com.
HISTORICAL FICTION - In 1965, an Alsatian expat in America realizes time's running out to learn who betrayed her brother, a Resistance fighter, to the Nazis during World War II. To solve the mystery, Eveline Gardeau will have to confront both her own family secrets and her brother’s long-lost friend, Antoine Dupont--a priest, fellow expat, and undercover KGB agent whose handler wants Eveline silenced by any means necessary. The closer she gets to Antoine, and the more his handler tries to stop her, the more Eveline and Antoine are haunted by their own pasts, by Alsace's unique and rarely-told WWII history, and the more each realizes that betrayal never goes unpunished.
I'd rather not post my personal email, but if anyone is interested, I'd consider creating a separate one for critiques per Evelyn's suggestion, so just reach out if you're interested and we can go from there. Thanks in advance!
PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER - Hi, I'm Justin Walters and my novel is a psychological thriller with paranormal elements (sort of like a mashup between Marisha Pessl and Alex Michaelides) at 70K words. In this book, the main character comes home after a weird day at work and believes that his wife has been replaced by a lookalike. He sees a psychiatrist who tells him that he's suffering from a rare mental illness, but a friend convinces him that he's being tested by otherworldly forces. Who can he turn to -- and will he ever get his "real" wife back? Whether you just want to be a beta reader, or you want to be a critique partner, I'm very well-versed in the psychological thriller / horror genres. My email is jw1576@gmail.com, so feel free to reach out!
Greetings Community--One thing I wanted to point out based on a recent (for substantial pay) experience I had with a freelance editor. While I thought I was clear in terms of the "Project Brief," based on what I received, either a) I wasn't or b) his editorial super powers may not have been the right fit. So here's what I might humbly suggest--when possible, be super specific on what you are looking for. Even the pros might find going through a 321 page manuscript a challenging task if they don't know what you think the problems are with your own novel. (I can "feel" the problems in mine--and I didn't want line edits on the things that readers agree work really well.) This editor really liked my novel--but I think his vision for it (i.e to make it more literary than what my skill set is capable of) and my desire to stay in the upmarket space were at odds. I don't know if my rambling post makes sense--but if I had to do it over again, I would treat it like I would any other business project I went out to "bid" on--i.e. specific deliverables and desired outcomes. Hope this is helpful! (And not too biz-nerdy.)
I think this is great advice Diana! Thanks for bringing this up:)
Thanks, Amy! And thanks for commenting!
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE: Hi, I’m Jennifer Risi and I’ve been working on My Celebrity Boyfriend, a dual-POV Contemporary Romance, in which the editor of an anonymous celebrity gossip account starts a relationship with a soap opera actor without telling him about her side hustle - one she desperately needs to afford a surgery she can’t live a normal life without. I’ve been through several rounds of trivia in a and would love some fresh critique on the story, pacing, character development, and whether the chronic illness representation overshadows the love story. I’d be happy to swap critiques, I *love* reading other work! My email is jenniferrisiwrites@gmail.com
Jenny, I am a bit late because I was traveling. I would be interested in reading your work. I wrote a multicultural women’s novel ( so a different genre) but I read a lot of different genres. Let me know if you would like me to read the first 50 pages to start and we can go from there?
Hi Ines, I would be happy to do a swap!
Hi, Are there any spicy scenes in your book?
Hi, yes, there are
FANTASY - Hi, I’m Megan Lynae Green, and I’m currently working on Sapphire Secret, a book full of magic gems, curses, romance, and explorations of mental health. In this book, the MC, Sabrina, is convinced she is the lost princess of the fallen Sapphire Kingdom and seizes the chance to attend a royal ball to prove her identity—only for a familiar pirate captain to upend her plans and steal a precious sapphire. Meanwhile, Ava of the conquering Amethyst Kingdom struggles to undo a curse she accidentally unleashed. Both women are drawn into a quest to recover the stolen gem, with Sabrina fighting for her homeland’s legacy and Ava for her kingdom’s salvation. As their paths collide, they must confront their intertwined destinies in the Gem Empire, even if it puts them at odds. Feel free to email me at mlg.author12@gmail.com
This sounds so much fun, I'd love to read for you if you're still in need
Hi Kiki! So sorry I didn’t see this. The email I made isn’t receiving emails for some reason so please try meganlynaegreen@gmail.com
I’m planning to query soon but I would love to work with beta readers to get a fresh perspective!
ROMANCE FANTASY/ROMANTASY - Hi, writer friends! I'm looking for some feedback on my debut romantasy novel, The Ash Trials.
✨ Deadly trials, enemies to lovers — all set on an island that conjures the competitor’s worst fears to use against them.
📚 The opening image: our hero waking up in a ruined wedding dress with no memory of who she is — or who she was about to marry. Then, she realizes she’s the only powerless mortal in a prison full of the most dangerous magical criminals — and she’ll need to win the Ash Trials to survive.
❤️ I pulled inspiration from my absolute favorites — THRONE OF GLASS, THE HUNGER GAMES, ACOTAR, and THE BOURNE IDENTITY. It is a bit spicy, FYI!
Looking for some beta readers who would be interested in reading the first 20 pages. Happy to read fellow romantasy authors, too. My email is amy at amysuto dot com :)
I'd love to read, if you are still in need of readers
Yes, would love to have you take a read! I'd love to read yours as well. I'll send you an email!
Thank you, I look forward to it
This sounds like a really cool idea! I’d love to give it a read the first 20 pages!
awesome! I'll email it to you. I saw you have a sci-fi fantasy book as well -- would love to read yours as well if you're still looking for feedback!
Emailed you! x
Ohh sounds similar to mine! Would love to read!
CONTEMPORARY WOMEN’S FICTION
Hi! I’m Marylee Pangman, and I’m writing a series of books about five strong, successful women navigating the challenges of rediscovering purpose and fulfillment in their later years. Each book focuses on one of these women, her journey to overcome personal obstacles, and the deep friendships that support her along the way.
I’m looking for beta readers to review my first serialized chapters (~1500-1800 words each) and share feedback on whether the stories will inspire readers to recommend them to friends. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, please drop me a line at tucsonpots@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!
Thank you!
YA FANTASY: Hello everyone. I’m Fiona and I’ve recently finished the 4th draft of my novel. It’s ‘done’ but not fine-tuned and I would love some fresh eyes to help make it better. At 130000 words it’s also probably too long. So what is it? It’s the story of Maeva - girl, rebel, failed saviour - and how she fights the king who is suppressing magic (and therefore destroying the land), butts heads with the crown prince, and uses her magical powers to spur along a sputtering rebellion effort. She has to reckon with her past before she can fulfil her potential and shape the future. The narrative is mostly in the present with memories of what happened in her past blended throughout.
Whether you want to read a few pages or the whole thing, I’d be grateful! And happy to return the favour. My email is everafterhappily [at] gmail [dot] com
MULTICULTURAL WOMEN’S FICTION
Hi, my debut novel is about four Latinas that have mishaps with technology ( texts, emails, voicemail…) that leave them estranged from loved ones. They form a book club that becomes a place to discuss books ( a little), life ( a lot) and enjoy Latin food and music. Over the span of a year these four women become the found family they didn’t know they needed to forgive themselves and others , to move past heartbreak and to find joy within.
If this sounds like something might want to read a few chapters of and give feedback on, I’d be happy to return the favor. My email is ipvrincon@gmail.com
Ines, I love the premise/container for your novel!
Thank you! Would you like to swap some chapters?
This sounds so interesting!
FANTASY / ADVENTURE
Hiya Lovelies, I'm Kiki and I've been working on a debut novel (potentially), 'Call of the Wild,' is a Fantasy Adventure novel with high stakes, found family and deadly games. After being wrongly banished by her tribe from her homeland, Saria Clovercress forms an alliance with an unlikely band of adventurers, The Ashen Order, on their last quest before retirement. But when their employer, the Grand Sorcerer Ser Raexius, pushes the group to their limit, the group begin questioning his true intentions for calling upon the specific group. In the heat of the gruelling trials, Saria must learn to control her power before losing everything she holds dear. (roughly 84k words, in the first draft but would benefit from fresh perspectives). My email is thecosycalico@gmail.com
I am an avid bookworm, I've read many ARC's for authors. My opinions are always my own. I *love* to read any genre, however contemporary romance and fantasy are my favourite to read.
Sent an email!
LITERARY FICTION – Hello all. I’m Rich Scorza, and I hope this is a fit. I’m currently working on a collection of short stories with the working book title “Gray Clouds”. The stories portray the very real world of today’s seniors, covering topics such as intimacy, “gray divorce,” end of life, sexuality, and loneliness, challenging lingering clichés that are reflected in movies, writings, and across an uninformed media. The collection will carry 60k – 80k words. I’ve drafts on seven stories so far. The story for here is “Hearts” (2644 words). Two couples, four older folks (sixty-two – seventy-five), on a December night in Minneapolis playing the card game hearts over cocktails, dive into discussions on the meaning of being older and facing death. The night is the three year anniversary of the death of one of the players deceased spouse’s, and conflict arises as each must contend where their own fears. Hoping someone will see some value. Also, I’m open to reading and throwing my two cents in, helping where I can. Cheers.
Hi Rich. I know i am super late to the party, but I'd love to read your book and help. I write queer historical romance, but am totally fine with not receiving feedback in return. My Email is: tali.sarnetzky@gmail.com
I could read your short story. Sounds interesting. What would you want as feedback?
SCI-FI/FANTASY - I'm Emma Finn, and I am working on a 121K word science fiction fantasy book about long-lost twins finding their way back to each other with magic, spaceships, and a found family trope. I've been writing it since 2020 and have edited it like crazy. I'm querying agents, but I could use a second set of eyes (or more!) to help me make it even better. I'd love to give feedback as well. You can reach me at emmamariefinn@outlook.com
Sent you an email!
This story sounds fascinating.
Thank you!!
HORROR -- Hi, I'm Andy Zetzman, and for the last year and change I've been working on my horror story, Bury Your Skeletons. Here's the blurb I have written, should it entice you to read further:
Imagine being haunted by ghosts from a past that isn’t yours.
Paul Callahan is seeing visions of terrible, violent memories he's convinced aren't his. But as a recovering alcoholic, he can't be certain that they aren’t from a life he doesn't remember. And each vision ends the same way: with a mysterious visit from a ghostly skeleton. The monster has a mission for Paul, and it’s up to him to solve the mysteries and unravel a cold case that’s very much close to home.
I've just completed my fourth (!!!) revision and am in the process of girding myself against the querying gauntlet. If there's anyone out there willing to give it a read and offer up your thoughts, I'd very much appreciate it. I would definitely be willing to do the same for you. The manuscript is about 75K words.
My email is andy.zetzman@gmail.com. Thanks so much!
Hi Andy,
That sounds like a fun read over the holidays! 75k words is quite a work! Good for you.
Let me know if you'd like to read it and I can send you a copy! Happy to reciprocate if you have something you want some more eyes on. Thanks!
Absolutely thank you!
Great! Can you send me an email or reply with your email address? I'll send you a copy. Thank you!
mandidog4@gmail.com
MEMOIR - Hi, I’m Mary Leavines , and I’m about to wrap up some edits to my debut memoir. The manuscript outlines my long walk: from Georgia to Maine during my 2022 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, from Catholicism to religious deconstruction, marriage to divorce, seemingly having all the answers to embracing uncertainty, and the absolute necessity of listening to your inner knowing - no matter what it may cost you. My manuscript explores themes of religious deconstruction, the unexpected alchemy of grief, and the liberation of radical vulnerability: all framed by a casual 2,200-mile walk I went on to clear my head. I’m looking for beta readers who can weigh in on the pacing as I bounce between the past and my thru-hike, the characterization of the incredible people I met along the way, and overall flow of the story. You can reach me at contact@maryleavines.com .
Mary, I am interested and will send you an email.
HORROR - I’m Monica Brown, and I’m currently working on The Vanishing Chair, a chilling horror novel that dives into generational curses, betrayal, and redemption. This is my debut manuscript, and it’s been through several rounds of revisions, but I’d love some fresh perspectives on pacing and character development (is the ending satisfying??). Happy to swap critiques or brainstorm ideas for your project! You can reach me at Graciouslyimperfect09@gmail.com.
Hi! what is the word count on your novel? I have a 38k post-apocalyptic novella I would love a horror authors eye on, but I want to make sure I can 100% provide the same for you. Thanks!
YA FANTASY - Hey! Had some issues with posting here so hopefully this works now! My name is CJ Redgrave and I’m writing a fantasy book for children/ya about a magical shop run by a colourful and unlikely cast. Expect magical mayhem and silly humour. Everything from wizards and witches to singing frogs and sarcastic crows (the usual things of course). I’d like someone to read the opening chapters to see if the story has a good hook, and if all goes well hopefully find a beta reader! If you’re interested, I’d love to read what you’re working on as well. Let me know on cjr3dgrave2@gmail.com.
HISTORICAL FICTION - In 1965, an Alsatian expat in America realizes time's running out to learn who betrayed her brother, a Resistance fighter, to the Nazis during World War II. To solve the mystery, Eveline Gardeau will have to confront both her own family secrets and her brother’s long-lost friend, Antoine Dupont--a priest, fellow expat, and undercover KGB agent whose handler wants Eveline silenced by any means necessary. The closer she gets to Antoine, and the more his handler tries to stop her, the more Eveline and Antoine are haunted by their own pasts, by Alsace's unique and rarely-told WWII history, and the more each realizes that betrayal never goes unpunished.
I'd rather not post my personal email, but if anyone is interested, I'd consider creating a separate one for critiques per Evelyn's suggestion, so just reach out if you're interested and we can go from there. Thanks in advance!
PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER - Hi, I'm Justin Walters and my novel is a psychological thriller with paranormal elements (sort of like a mashup between Marisha Pessl and Alex Michaelides) at 70K words. In this book, the main character comes home after a weird day at work and believes that his wife has been replaced by a lookalike. He sees a psychiatrist who tells him that he's suffering from a rare mental illness, but a friend convinces him that he's being tested by otherworldly forces. Who can he turn to -- and will he ever get his "real" wife back? Whether you just want to be a beta reader, or you want to be a critique partner, I'm very well-versed in the psychological thriller / horror genres. My email is jw1576@gmail.com, so feel free to reach out!