Legacy of Secrets is Finally to My Beta Readers

I was up most of the night last night, but I finally have Legacy of Secrets to my beta readers. I delivered my manuscript to them today. I had to be at work at 7:00 a.m. today, but I was not about to go to bed while I was in the zone with my book. While I only slept a couple of hours, it was worth it for this immense sense of accomplishment I’m enjoying right now.

I’ve worked on my novel for so long that I’m no longer objective. I have difficulty being objective about any of my work, but with something that has so much of my heart and soul within the pages, it just isn’t possible. That’s why it’s so important for other people to read my book and provide me with feedback.

My beta readers consist of five individuals who each bring a unique expertise. I trust and value their opinions and suggestions. If something isn’t working, I will know about it by the time they’re finished. If something can be improved or is missing, I will know before all the pages are read. I’ve already received feedback on the first three chapters from one of my more voracious readers, and she was full of great ideas.

Only two of my readers are avid fans of my genre, and I trust them to let me know if something doesn’t feel right. The other three are trusted readers who come from very different backgrounds and professions. By diversifying my beta readers, I hope to have a good idea of whether my book will please a wide audience or not.

Some of my friends are confused about the status of Legacy of Secrets. I sent the book to my beta readers for fresh insight and objective input. That doesn’t mean that it’s ready for publication. I will evaluate the feedback my readers give me and will most likely make several changes before my manuscript is ready for the sharp eyes of a publisher.

I’m giving myself the week off from Legacy of Secrets while my beta readers evaluate its strengths and weaknesses. Instead, I’m concentrating my shorter prose and poetry. I have two writers conferences coming up in the near future, and I plan to enter several contests in each one. I’m really looking forward to writing something fun for one contest in particular. I can promise you on thing: no one will be named Sally, which is the name of my main character in Legacy of Secrets.

I’ve learned many things through this process. I’ve learned that my printer takes 30 minutes and one ink cartridge to print one copy of my book, but that’s the front and back of each page. I’ve learned that a great sale on copy paper is worth rushing to the store even if you don’t need anything else. I’ve learned that people who ask to read your book are precious gems who should be treasured. I’ve learned that my husband loves and supports me, and he shows it by buying dinner when I’m in a writing frenzy and taking me to the bookstore when I need a break. The most important lesson I’ve learned from writing my novel is that you should never, under any circumstances, delete 60 pages of work in an artistic rage. I’ve also learned that the euphoria you feel when you utter the words, “I just finished my book,” is worth all the late nights, eye strain, and grey hair. These are seeds of wisdom, right here! Thank you for reading Ozarks Maven! If you’ve enjoyed my little seeds of wisdom and joy, please subscribe to Ozarks Maven, Like Ozarks Maven on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter @OzarksMaven.

I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.