Writing Tip

Stephen B. Bagley:
“Find a good, honest person who will function as your beta reader. You need someone who reads your genre and knows what’s been published, who can tell when they get bored, when a plot point is unbelievable, and if they would recommend the published book to a friend. Critiques are always tough to hear; remember that you asked them.

“A good critiquer, however, doesn’t attempt to change your story. They let you know the flaws they see and then do not attempt to fix them. You’re the writer. It’s your story. It’s your responsibility to fix its flaws.

“Sometimes, however, your story simply doesn’t click with a critiquer because of your subject matter or focus or whatever. Thank them for their time and look for someone else. You need an honest, objective look. While it’s nice to hear someone loved your draft, such comments do not help you improve.”