I periodically share updates here about a suspense novel I wrote a few years ago, inspired by my work podcasting. In early 2024 I hired a developmental editor to help me go over the manuscript. I began sending queries out to literary agents that spring after incorporating her suggestions. After the first few rejections, I had writer friends I trust help me tackle my query letter, and almost immediately I began receiving manuscript requests. I’ve written a few other novels before in the young adult genre and had never received a request, only rejections. I was elated.
Two agents that requested the full manuscript both got back to me within a few months and turned down representation. They both had different reasons—I believe part of the problem is the book is written in an experimental format. A large part of the novel tells the story through podcast transcripts, and one agent said she wasn’t sure how to handle that. I don’t believe that was the only thing holding her back from working with me though, because I’ve since read several books that tell the story in a similar format.
Two agents requested partial manuscripts, and I never heard back from them. And a few months ago, I queried a small publishing press, and they requested a full manuscript. I haven’t received a yes or no yet.
But I can tell there is something missing in the writing or the format of the book that is keeping agents from offering me a firm “Yes, let’s do this!” I don’t want to send out any more queries until I figure out what the issues are. I was discussing my dilemma with my writing accountability group and they suggested beta readers. Now, I admit I only had a few readers look at the manuscript before handing it over to an editor, and not all of them read the book in its entirety. I think they are right. With a few exceptions. One of my friends from church suggested I give the manuscript to their book club, and they could act as a “focus group” for me. I was horrified and said that wasn’t quite what I was looking to do and she understood.
I’ve been doing a bit of research on the best way to find beta readers. I’ve decided to put a call out to my own network first, and say I’m looking for 3-4 beta readers who can commit to reading the manuscript and answering a set list of questions (I like the ones I found on this blog post). In return, I can offer to read something for them (essays, short stories, manuscript, etc.) or offer up a gift card so they can purchase a book on their wish list. If possible, I’d like to ask beta readers to complete the book and questions within 4-6 weeks so I can begin work on incorporating their suggestions or addressing other issues. Then, if I still feel it necessary, I can either hire another developmental editor or begin querying again.
For anyone that’s ever used a beta reader or been one, how do these parameters sound? And what is the best way to share the manuscript? Should I format it for anyone who wants to read on a Kindle, print out physical pages, or send in a Word document?
I welcome any feedback and advice on this topic. I’m nervous about the process but also feel it will help move my book along as progress is at a dead stop for now.
Renee Roberson is an award-winning writer who also produces and hosts the true crime podcast, Missing in the Carolinas. Learn more at FinishedPages.com and missinginthecarolinas.com.
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