Happy Friday! Please don’t forget to check out my Friday post at the Scribes’ Blog – Can this Wreck be Saved?

Last week I reported my goal to complete my edits of The Undead Space Initiative by Sunday night. I’m happy to say goal accomplished! And, even better, the book is now in the hands of  my two, trusted Beta Readers.

Notice I said readers. Not writers. I always ask readers to review the early draft first.

Why?

Because the reader is who I’m ultimately writing the book for. They read the book as an experience with an eye towards story. Does the book entertain them? Do they keep turning pages? What questions didn’t I answer?

If they tell me a story isn’t working, it’s full stop and either back to the drawing board or the story is shelved. Luckily,  the only stories I’ve hidden away are my first attempts from years ago.

Once I get the green light, I then submit my story to my amazing critique partners. More to come on that, in a few weeks.

If you’re a writer, it’s crucial to share your work with first readers who can be honest and provide informative feedback.

If you’re a reader and the friend of a writer – be honest, brutally honest if need be. Our feelings won’t be hurt – promise!