Do you want to become part of the creative process?

«Writing a novel is a solitary adventure — but not entirely. There comes a moment when the writer must entrust their story to outside eyes, to truly understand if what has been written reaches the reader’s heart and mind.

I have finished drafting the novel. Now it’s time for the beta readers.

A beta reader is a special kind of reader: they receive, in advance, a few chapters or even the entire novel in digital format (PDF or Word), and their role is to read it with care, curiosity, and sincerity. You don’t need to be a literary critic — it’s enough to love reading and to want to take part in a unique journey, helping to improve a book before its publication.

What is expected of a beta reader? Here are some guiding points:

• Point out any typos, spelling mistakes, or grammatical slips.

• Notice inconsistencies in the plot or in the characters’ behaviour.

• Highlight passages that are unclear, repetitive, or too slow.

• Indicate the parts that struck you most — those that moved you, and those that bored you.

• Give an opinion on the story’s pace: too fast, too slow, or gripping at just the right level.

• Flag any inconsistencies in time or setting.

• Share your overall impressions: does the novel capture your attention? Do you empathise with the characters? What emotions does it stir in you?

Feedback can be given in writing (a report, even simple and free-form) or verbally, perhaps in a conversation. What matters is sincerity: it is the only way to make the novel stronger and more authentic.

Being a beta reader means stepping into the heart of the creative process, taking part in a fascinating adventure, discovering the secrets of a story before anyone else, and contributing to its final form. It’s an exciting experience for those who love books and want to be part of them — not only as readers, but as true companions on the journey.

If you would like to apply to be a beta reader for The True Story of Alan Scott, you can fill in the form on the contact page of my website 👉 www.robertosalvo.it.

The journey has only just begun, and you could be among the first to live it with me.»