Lois & Clark Forums Forums Fan Fiction Fanfic Related finding beta-readers

Hi all!

I've been lurking here for a while and have been awestruck with the amount of creativity and wonderful writing in this community. I've always wanted to give something back, but only just recently got struck with a story idea. I was wondering what the general procedure is for finding a beta reader or two to help me out? I have written fanfic for other fandoms, mostly Forever Knight and Angel, but I don't know anyone in the L&C community yet, really.

I would be looking for someone to take a look at my current plot-outline and critique (at the moment, I have a detailed outline + a teaser written), as well as field incoming parts from me to look at anything and everything that might make it better. Characterization, plot-lines, grammar, quality of writing, the works -- I want it all looked at and hammered through. When I produce something I like it to be as polished as possible and I just love seeking criticism for my work -- I must be a glutton for punishment or something. Are these unreasonable expectations, and if not, where and how should I start my search for help?

Thanks all for your time

Diane

Welcome, Diane! And congrats on coming out of lurkdom!! In order to get a beta reader all you need do is ask, just like you have. Sometimes authors like to give a little one-line synopsis of what they're working on. Only because if you were working on say an action story, not everyone is proficient in that area.

I admire the fact that you have an outline. I wish I were that organized. If you like, you're welcome to email me and I'll have a look at what you've got. But don't be afraid to have more than one beta reader. The more the better...well, to an extent.

Sara
skfolc@hotmail.com

Wow, thanks for the quick response

My current story idea is sort of an alt-beginnings. It assumes the premise of Alt-Clark, whose parents were killed when he was 10, but unlike that universe, it was done on purpose by a very familiar enemy. I expect it to be sort of a mish-mash of both the pilot and Strange Visitor, stealing events from both to make up my new universe. I also expect it will be very long assuming it gets off the runway. From the looks of it, Lois and Clark will be getting off to a very awkward start. My intention is to give Trask a somewhat less 2-dimensional appearance, and on top of that, examine what events might conspire to stay the same, even when the starting circumstances are very different.

Sara, I will send you what I've got so far in a moment. Any other takers? I wouldn't mind a few added opinions.

Thanks again!

Diane

Hi Aria,


Unfortunately I can´t BR in grammar because i am not a native speaker... but count on me for audience and for opinions. Just e-mail me at anytime. I´ll be looking for your stories around here. I loved your idea about Trask. I am anxious to see what you have for us and for Alt CLark... hehehe !!! No need to mention I´m the one around...

Good Luck and Welcome,

MDL. or ?

I've never Beta'ed before but I have read half the LnC stories archived here and I've read more X-Files fanfic than I ever thought possible. So I do know the difference between good and bad writing as well as stories that will work as opposed to those that won't. If you're interested you can email me at krystle[at]kaptured-heart.net and if not that's cool since I don't really have any experience in this area.

Good Luck!