The responses I received from wannabe beta readers for Echoes has been nearly overwhelming and totally delightful. I blogged on Noveltea a week ago today asking for beta readers, then followed that up posting on Goodreads and my Go Teen Writers Facebook group.
It’s amazing to me how writers rally around each other and help out with beta reading, brainstorming, reviewing, and encouragement. Multiple times last week I wanted to dance around my office thrilled at the fact that I get to be a writer – that I fit in with this group of people and can lend and receive help and encouragement along with the rest of them.
As I sent out email after email to beta reads last week (19 beta readers in all!) I nearly cried for joy at all the people who are not only willing, but happy to spend their time helping me. Being a writer isn’t always easy. There have been times when I’ve been so overwhelmed or discouraged that I’ve wanted to quit. But being a writer is important. And having people around you to remind you of that fact is priceless.
Receiving the feedback from beta readers isn’t always easy. Who likes to hear that what they’ve written has horrible plot holes, that the characters are unlikeable, or that the story just lacks the “oomph” it needs to succeed? But I know from experience that receiving feedback is incredibly helpful. I’ve learned so much from my beta readers – not only about my books, but also about how things I perceive as coming across one way might come across to another person.
In addition to all the writerly good that comes from beta readers, there are multiple friends I’ve made through beta reading. I’m still in very regular contact with at least four of the beta readers who read When Life Hands You Lymes, and would consider all of them to be my friends. It’s a wonderful feeling.
Today I am thankful to be a writer. Today I am thankful for all the beta readers who are working on Echoes. Today I am thankful that I can be part of a writing community where people are helpful, encouraging, and kind.
Thank you – all of you – for being a part of my life and my writing journey!
Noveltea 
You are very welcome! I’m delighted to help, and I’m honoured to be able to be a part of this! 🙂
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Aww! Thanks, Hannah! I’m honored that you feel that way! 😉
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WLHYL was such a pleasure to beta-read. Although I wasn’t sure I’d have the time with Echoes, I’m so glad I offered to help! I’m realizing more and more how special it is to have other people give their time to edit a book. Thank YOU for being such a great friend over the last few months 🙂
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Aww! You’re so sweet! Thank you for beta reading WLHYL and working on Echoes! I’ve had a lot of fun getting to work with you as a beta reader. =)
I’ve really enjoyed having you as a friend, too! That’s totally one of the best things about beta reading – meeting all the wonderful people! (Of course the feedback is extremely helpful, too!)
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I’m SO happy for you Lydia! I know this story is going to be awesome, but I agree; the editing process can be hard and tedious. I’m praying that you will continue to have strength and joy in the process. So glad you had such a great response when you requested beta readers.
-Bekah
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I was blown away, also! Thank you so much for praying for me, Bekah! It can be a bit overwhelming, but mostly I’m pretty excited about it. 🙂
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