Beta Readers
As just about every other writing site will tell you, having a beta reader to check your work before you post is simply a matter of common sense - another set of eyes can often pick up on that spelling error, or grammatical mistake or missing words. They might also help out if the characterisation needs work, or there are plot weaknesses that you just haven't noticed. Almost all good authors will use one. In other words, beta readers are A Good Thing.
We here at Incredibly Pale want to encourage you to use a beta reader, and to that end, this page will have a list of those lovely people willing to become beta readers. If you would like to offer your services please feel free to e-mail me with the relevant details and I'll add you here.
Note: if you want to use one of these beta readers please e-mail them first to ask if they are able, don't simply send the fic directly - they have lives too!
List of Beta Readers
Name Dolores dolores_l@hotmail.com Experience Beta read for 4 different authors in 3 fandoms over the last couple of years. Areas of Expertise World history, classics, geography, Britain in general. I'm also very good and very picky with spelling and grammar. Harshness I'll be honest, but tactful. So medium, I guess. Response Time Generally two or three days at the most.
Name Faithtastic faithtastic@jturner93.fsnet.co.uk Experience Well, I studied English Literature for two years at college so I know how to technically critique fiction and poetry. I've also beta read for Xena, ST: Voyager and Buffy fic. Areas of Expertise I live in the UK so I know about geography, colloquialisms, British culture. I also have some knowledge of German. Harshness If I think you're off the mark with characterization, I'll tell you so. Plot-wise, I'm more tolerant. I'll always give alternative suggestions for the parts I disagree with. Response Time It varies - contact me first.
Name J Calanthe mutantpeanut@yahoo.com Experience Editing technical manuals professionally, beta-ing BtVS/AtS fic. Areas of Expertise Grammar, spelling, consistency, believability. Harshness I tend to be very thorough, but in a nice way. Tell me what level of feedback you want and I'll do my best to accomodate. Response Time Variable - check with me.
Name Scynneh scynneh@yahoo.com Experience I beta read whenever someone asks for help - am on more than a few lists, in various fandoms. Areas of Expertise I enjoy history, have a love for details, and like to assist in descriptions, though I am picky about grammar and spelling. Harshness I will be as sweet as honest can be, but I will not make an author hide under a rock. Just gentle prodding I think. Response Time At the most- two, three days.
Name Rae mochic@aol.com Experience What can I say? I'm a newbie. Areas of Expertise English grammer in general (usage, spelling, misplaced modifiers, etc.), history of the world, psycology, world cultures. Harshness I'm very honest, but it is just my personal opinion. I'm pretty open-minded. Response Time Depends how long the story is.
Name Vera tarrotcat@aol.com Experience I have been a beta, been beated and stared at the letter beta multiple times. Areas of Expertise Wording and plot. Harshness I don't break out the whips and chains, but I will rearrange entire sentences. Response Time 48-72 hours.
updates ... site info ... contact ... mailing list ... bios ... resources ... episode guides
galleries ... archive ... submit ... beta readers ... games ... fan art ... links
link to us ... affiliates