About
Why Beta Reading Matters:
Unbiased feedback is one of the strongest tools an author can use before hiring an editor. Friends and family might want to spare your feelings or fear their reaction will be discouraging. A professional beta reader can provide valuable feedback as a reader without harsh criticism or sugarcoating. Having several beta readers within the target audience is recommended for a well-rounded review of your book. In turn, the revisions made before sending the manuscript to an editor will save you money. If you hire me as a beta reader and then as your editor, I offer a significant discount on editing services.
My Approach:
At Nichole With an H Proofreading, I take a supportive approach to beta reading, focusing on:
Timeline and Character Consistency: I will look for inconsistencies in the story timeline and characterizations. I have read published books with unintended pronoun changes for characters or the wrong name being used. Nothing will sidetrack a reader more than having to check if they misread.
Major problems: I will let you know if the plot is flat, confusing, or great!
Consistency and Style: I will identify recurring errors in grammar or spelling, changes in style, or confusing sections. This does not replace the job of an editor, but merely gives you an idea of where you can tidy up your writing before enlisting one.
Discounts available for military/veterans, first responders, students, and senior citizens