How do I find critical novel beta readers who won't coddle my emotions?

October 5, 2018 8:39 AM

I am on the brink of finishing my novel! I need beta readers who are willing to be cruel to be kind. How do I find them?

During my revision/editing process, Goodreads has been a constant companion, especially harsh reviews of books in my genre that have helped with "what not to do." I have three beta readers lined up, but they're friends of mine and I know they won't be as critical as strangers.

In addition to a critique of elements like plot, characterization, style, etc. I will need sensitivity readers and my beta readers need to be pro-LGBTQIAA+. The story revolves around a relationship between two men, and a major supporting character is non-binary. It's not erotica but there are "fade-to-black" scenes of intimacy between the two lovers.

To make it even more complicated, the book is set in a historical period and although I've done massive amounts of research and fact-checking, I'd be much more comfortable having an actual historian of my time period/place vet it.

I have a list of things I would like to have feedback on rather than have people give a general impression. I am not in a position to pay anyone, unfortunately. I'm more than willing to do a trade (and I can be harsh reviewer too if requested). Any suggestions for finding willing critics?

posted by Beethoven's Sith to Writing & Language (8 answers total)

Check out the Editorial Freelancers Association. You can search their membership directory and filter by what you are looking for. You can also post an ad on their job board.
posted by smich at 8:44 AM on October 5, 2018 [1 favorite]

Hi there! I actually love reading people's work so much that I actually tried to set up my own side business to do it. It failed miserably, but it's still something I'm very much interested in doing! I'll gladly read and critique yours for free, but I do want to let you know that I might not have time to read much at a time. Is there any specific time-frame you have in mind that you would want to have everything done by? Also to note: I am cishet male, so I probably won't be the ideal critic in that respect, but I'd love to help anyway I can!
posted by Krazor at 8:59 AM on October 5, 2018 [2 favorites]

Did you see this group on GoodReads?
Good advice from K.M.Weiland.
No idea who these folks are, but it might be worth investigating.
15 Questions to Ask Them, Once You Find Them.
posted by Major Matt Mason Dixon at 9:03 AM on October 5, 2018 [1 favorite]

I grew up in a publishing family and started evaluating the contents of the slush pile for my mother at 10. I am pro-LGBTQIAA+ and as a bonus, should your historical era happen to be Regency or Victorian, I am very conversant in historical accuracy for those time periods. PM me if I can be of service!
posted by DarlingBri at 9:14 AM on October 5, 2018

Me! I'm a queer nonbinary person of color with a good record of being able to modulate my critical tone :) also have a whole lot of lived experience.
posted by yueliang at 9:23 AM on October 5, 2018 [3 favorites]

Queer cis woman, vaguely conversant with a lot of history through dogged curiosity. I'm also a writer. PM me if I can help!
posted by The Almighty Mommy Goddess at 10:33 AM on October 5, 2018

So based on the comments you've already gotten, I think it's safe to say you might get some good results by posting this on the Jobs section of MetaFilter!
posted by Secretariat at 11:13 AM on October 5, 2018

Response by poster: Thanks everyone! I will be taking all of your wonderful suggestions.
posted by Beethoven's Sith at 8:35 AM on October 6, 2018