Michael J. Sullivan
Hey Richard, thanks for asking. Robin has a pretty extensive process for beta reading. With each new book, we try to utilize our existing beta team, but we also add "new voices."
The first step in becoming a beta reader is learning what's involved. It's actually quite a bit of work, and as such, it goes beyond reading an early copy and saying, "Yeah, I liked it" or "Wow, it sucked!" To this end, Robin has written a primer that explains the process, so it's best to start by reading that.
If after learning about the beta, you still want to be a reader, then the next step is to fill out a survey which can be found here. This lets Robin know what books you've read, which series you are interested in beta reading for, and other information such as your age and gender (as she likes to get feedback from a diverse group of people).
Don't be concerned if you've not read any of my books before, we do like having new readers in the beta process, so lack of familiarity with my work may actually increase you chances of getting picked!
As you might imagine, there will be far more people wanting "in" then we can possibly manage through the process. If you are not selected, please don't take it personally. Robin does a great job managing the program, and it's always hard to narrow down the list.
Thanks again for your interest, and if you do decide to sign up, Robin will be in touch when we are close to the next beta read start.
The first step in becoming a beta reader is learning what's involved. It's actually quite a bit of work, and as such, it goes beyond reading an early copy and saying, "Yeah, I liked it" or "Wow, it sucked!" To this end, Robin has written a primer that explains the process, so it's best to start by reading that.
If after learning about the beta, you still want to be a reader, then the next step is to fill out a survey which can be found here. This lets Robin know what books you've read, which series you are interested in beta reading for, and other information such as your age and gender (as she likes to get feedback from a diverse group of people).
Don't be concerned if you've not read any of my books before, we do like having new readers in the beta process, so lack of familiarity with my work may actually increase you chances of getting picked!
As you might imagine, there will be far more people wanting "in" then we can possibly manage through the process. If you are not selected, please don't take it personally. Robin does a great job managing the program, and it's always hard to narrow down the list.
Thanks again for your interest, and if you do decide to sign up, Robin will be in touch when we are close to the next beta read start.
More Answered Questions
Em
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
Just finished the Legends of the First Empire series and loved it! I am planning on reading your older series which I understand takes place later in the same universe. Question: is there a difference between the "Riyria Chronicles" and "Riyria Revelations"? I'm a little confused about which book is first in that series or even how many books there are. Thanks in advance! ~Emily
Cyrielle Jeanne
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
Hi Mr Sullivan! I was wondering, what's gonna be your next project after Drumindor?
Kishi
asked
Michael J. Sullivan:
Hi there. I know this is very brazen of me, but I'm trying to write my own novel and I can't get past the first chapter. Or at least the opening scene. I keep on doubting if it's good enough or strong enough, so I keep on writing and rewriting the opening scene, never moving forward. I tried to, but I couldn't. Any advice? Please??? :(
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more