As an optional step, you may want someone you trust to read the manuscript before you enter it into the publishing process. For many writers, this person is a critique partner.
A critique partner is a writer who can offer a fresh perspective on your story. Many writer organizations and writing groups can help you find a partner, but keep in mind that not all critique partners are equal. A good critique partner will give suggestions on how to improve yourstory, not how theywould handle a particular scene. A good critique partner is a precious resource for no cost—but be sure to return the favor by being their critique partner, too.
Beta readers can also provide valuable opinions, especially in terms of the 3Ps. Beta readers are readers who love to help out their favorite authors. If this is your first book, you'll have a far easier time finding critique partners than beta readers. As you publish books, readers will come to you, begging to get involved. Having beta readers is like having a finger on the pulse of your readership. You'll hear what works (and what doesn't) for them. With beta readers, you'll receive a wealth of feedback, but be careful to retain ownership of your story as you envision it. You can't and shouldn't try to please everyone.
If you work with a critique partner or beta readers, consider each piece of feedback you receive, but you certainly aren't expected to incorporate every piece in your story. Sometimes, a simple rephrasing of a sentence is all it takes to address a reader's comment that they didn't understand something.
I've seen a few writers take the feedback personally. They've grown so attached to their story that they don't want to cut a single word. I can understand—those words took a lot of time and energy to write. The key is to remember that any feedback reflects the story, not the author. No story is perfect. It doesn't matter if you're J. K. Rowling, Stephen King, or a first-time novelist, everyone's story needs edited.
YOU ARE READING
The Tidy Guide to Writing, Editing, and Publishing Your Novel
Non-FictionDo you dream of writing a novel, but not sure where to start? Have you been working on a book for ages but feel stuck? Despite all your best efforts, do you feel overwhelmed? Here's a clutter-free guide for planning and writing your novel right the...
