Beta readers provide authors with feedback and insight into a story, based on their personal reading experience. They don’t sound like editors, they sound like readers.
When can I hire a beta reader?
A beta reader can be hired at any stage of your writing journey. So whether you’ve just finished your first draft, are about to begin querying, or are considering seeking a professional edit — beta reading is an affordable way to gain valuable insight into your story. (We can even beta read partial manuscripts).
I have a team of vetted, professional readers who would love to dive into your book! All Steph Huddleston beta readers specialise in speculative fiction genres including science-fiction and fantasy. (If your book falls into a different genre, still get in touch!)
Have the assurance of quality, in-depth feedback, with one or more professional beta readers. My team prides itself on meeting deadlines because we know the importance of valuable feedback in a timely manner.
Why consider having more than one reader look at your book? Because no one experiences a story exactly the same. By hiring multiple readers, it’s easier to see trends in feedback from readers and what could be personal taste.
What other writers are saying:
How much does beta-reading cost?
All figures provided are in AUD (Pricing is based on novels under 100,000 words in length, but if your book is over that word count, don’t worry! Get in touch for a custom quote).
- Suitable for authors with a book under 100,000 words.
- Provision of an in-depth report covering character, plot, prose, worldbuilding and any specific questions you might have.
- Suitable for authors with a book under 100,000 words.
- Have two readers look over your book! Feedback compiled into an in-depth report covering character, plot, prose, worldbuilding and any specific questions you might have.
- Suitable for authors with a book under 100,000 words.
- Have three readers look over your book! Feedback compiled into an in-depth report covering character, plot, prose, worldbuilding and any specific questions you might have.
- Suitable for authors with a book under 100,000 words.
- Have four readers look over your book! Feedback compiled into an in-depth report covering character, plot, prose, worldbuilding and any specific questions you might have.
Discounts are available for authors who are return clients or have accessed an editing service in the last twelve months (sometimes you might want us to take a look at the same book, after some work has been done!)
What’s the deal with sensitivity/authenticy beta reading?
Authentic representation matters in fiction. That’s why I’m an advocate for recommending authors consider having their books sensitivity beta read, in particular, if the book covers topics readers may find triggering.
Every reader brings their own personal, lived experiences to their book. Sensitvity/authenticity beta reading honours the unique perspectives some readers can bring to our book.
If your book mentions any of the following people groups or topics please let me know so I can ensure your book is matched to the right beta reader from the team:
- People of colour, Black, or Indigenous
- LGBTQIA+
- Sexual abuse in any form
- Allergies
- Disabilities
- Mental Health
*Sensitivity beta reading is offered to all authors at no additional cost. All beta readers on the team are passionate about sharing their feedback, to the degree they feel comfortable with, with authors to ensure a safer reading community for all readers.
What’s the process?
- Contact me about your manuscript.
- I will provide a quote and estimated turn-around time for your feedback. (Usual turn-around time is four-five weeks from time of booking)
- Project is invoiced (payment via direct deposit or PayPal)
- Send your manuscript to me for beta reading.
- I send your feedback back to you!
Steph Huddleston 