Beyond My Head: The Role of Beta Readers
Inviting beta readers into my world has been like opening a window to fresh perspectives. As I navigate reader responses—some in, some still on the way—I’m busy translating their insights into actionable revisions on Thirteen Weeks in Digby.
Recruiting & Setting Expectations
I invited a diverse group of readers to participate:
Writer Friends who can spot structural or thematic gaps
Genre Enthusiasts who love found-family stories
Casual Readers who approach the draft with fresh eyes
To guide them, I created a Google Form with clear sections and questions—both tick-box and open-response—to help me compare feedback more efficiently. There are no “wrong” answers, just insights that will make the story stronger.
The Google Form: What I’m Asking
1. First Impressions
Did the beginning hook you?
Was the pacing steady, or were parts slow or confusing?
Which scenes felt especially strong or memorable?
2. Characters
How did you feel about the protagonist—believable and relatable?
Any characters you loved (or didn’t connect with)?
Did the relationships feel authentic?
3. Medical Accuracy (for those who know)
Did the hospital scenes feel realistic?
Any nursing details that rang true, or felt off?
4. Writing & Style
Was the writing style engaging and easy to follow?
Did any tone shifts pull you out of the story?
Were there lines or scenes you particularly enjoyed?
5. Overall
What did you enjoy most?
Anything that didn’t work or needs improvement?
Would you recommend this book? Why or why not?
Implementing Early Feedback
Already, I’ve begun weaving reader suggestions into Draft 1:
Reshaped Scenes: Tightening or expanding chapters flagged as having pacing issues or seeming disjointed.
Enhanced Relationships: Adding small gestures or dialogue beats where readers wanted more emotional depth or clarity.
Fact-Checks: Consulting nursing sources to refine medical details some readers found off.
Patting Myself on the Back: Smiling at the parts people loved and the characters they felt real connections to.
At the same time, I’m tracking pending responses and noting patterns. When multiple readers highlight the same issue, it jumps to the top of my to‑do list.
What’s Next
Over the next few weeks, I’ll collect the remaining form responses, compile everything into a color-coded spreadsheet, and dive into a second developmental pass.
Thanks for following my journey!
“Criticism, like rain, should be gentle enough to nourish growth without destroying roots.”
