Ask the Author: B. Hannah
Answered Questions (3)
B. Hannah
The best experience about being a writer (for me) is reading reviews from people I do not know. Knowing someone chose to read my book on their own based solely on summary, reviews or recommendations is a remarkably exciting feeling. When a reader shares what they personally connected with - for me is such a gift. Such a private share to know what someone resonated with or how the writing has and will impact their life. My most used phrase is “we never know what someone is thinking unless they choose to share, or if we ask them ourselves in expectation that they are telling us the truth.”
B. Hannah
I am a lover of fiction suspense thriller crime. I am currently reading ‘The Shadow Box’ by Luanne Rice - I am loving it by the way! My first summer read will be ‘One by one’ by Ruth Ware, one of my favorite authors. Ruth Ware’s words gives me chills with her fear provoking writing style. What a talent. I really look forward to my summer read!
B. Hannah
Consider the value in selecting beta readers to read your manuscript before finalizing your book. Regarding Fiction novels- choosing beta readers who naturally gravitate toward your book genre will be insightful feedback (as they are genuinely interested in your genre and have much experience reading your genre to compare to). Writers will find out the personal importance of having enthused persons be a part of your writing journey. Imposter syndrome (have you heard of this?) is a real experience. Having people involved because they want to be, because they are interested and excited will enrich your enjoyment of the process and give you comfort in knowing they are invested. I learned this the hard way. I also believe giving your beta specific instruction on the feedback you are seeking will be helpful to both them, and you. If you do not identify what you are seeking to achieve there will be missed opportunity to have the book resonate with your readers in the manner you are striving for. I personally have learned along the way the value in selecting your betas with intent. Regarding nonfiction books, my suggestion of selecting beta readers is specific to the genre of self improvement / self help based on writing my own self help book. In my journey I chose to select two very specific beta readers 1) someone who often reads self improvement books and 2) someone who I personally feel is a “tough”’exterior who does not often seem shook, or phased, or emotional to things I personally would be be emotionally charged by. In doing so, I would know based on this persons feedback if my writing resonated with even the toughest, emotionally intact strong people I know. This persons feedback is what challenged me to rethink and actually change the order of my ‘chapters’ which allowed my book to deliver the impact I was looking for in a transcendent manner. I was so grateful. The takeaway - choose people who truly are interested in your genre, and identify the feedback you are seeking from the people you need it by. I am sending all you writers much enthusiasm and care as you embark on your next chapter.
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