Over the weekend I intend to have completed the ‘beta’ draft of Chapters 1-10 of my first book and will be in a position to forward it to a number of kind souls who have expressed an interest in taking part in the beta reading process. We were bowled over by the initial response and I’d like to thank everyone in advance for the time and effort they will be expending to review my work.
Unfortunately we have had to set a limit on the number of people we can accept for the process. Otherwise it becomes an overly complicated venture that defeats the purpose of the exercise. I’m hoping, however, those who are involved are looking forward to the journey as much as I am. Although I will confess I am also filled with more than a little trepidation and nerves. I’m going for it, though.
Like Kirkwood Scott, the eponymous hero of the book, I am a master at snatching defeat from the jaws of victory; at falling flat on my face with the finish line just ahead; at knocking over a tin of paint onto the canvas as I’m applying the final touches to my labour of love. I’m determined not to do that this time as I have worked too hard on this project for it not to see the light of day.
My family and friends also deserve this. They have listened to me whine and complain for almost a year. Fionnuala has endured this more than anyone to the point where she has turned around and pleaded to me ‘Just finish the thing’. The kids have been patient and understanding. There have been times when Daddy hasn’t been ‘Fun Daddy’ as he sits hunched over his laptop, hammering away at the keyboard.
The dream is that the book will get picked up by an agent and sold to a publisher. I am realistic, however, and realise how difficult it is for a first time author to secure such a deal. All I can do is try, though, and that is my favoured option. Plan A, so to speak. All good generals have a back up plan, however. So I’m also exploring several other options. Self publishing being one of them.
What I’m trying to say is that those of you who want to read the finished work will get an opportunity to do so, even if it means publishing it as a serial on WordPress. For I believe ‘Skelly’s Square’ continues a story of hope and redemption from the dark places that lies at the heart of all my writing. I believe it is a story that needs to be told as I believe there are those who desperately need such a lifeline to clutch to.
The only fly in the ointment to date is that I have had no male victims….I mean volunteers willing to take part in the beta process. I am keen to cover as many demographics as I can so come on chaps, don’t be shy and step up to the plate. Let’s show the ladies how it’s done, right? If any of you are interested then drop me a line over the weekend. It’s still not too late to get involved.
So that’s the update for now. If you never hear from me again it’s because the betas hated it and I’ve went on a sulk of epic proportions. But let’s hope that this is another small step towards revealing the finished product. And then I can start telling you about my plans for Part Two of The Kirkwood Scott Chronicles. For even the baddest of bad guys deserves a second chance, right? Thank you and stay tuned.
If you have questions or comments about my first novel: ‘The Kirkwood Scott Chronicles : Part One – Skelly’s Square’ then please leave them below. Thank you.
Do you have a Plan B?
Black Thoughts 
I am a little late to reading your blog but I am loving it so far. If you still need victims I’m willing. Sounds interesting. Best of luck!
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Congratulations on finishing your book and having the courage to share it with others. Based on the quality of your writing in your blogs and your determination, I’m sure it will be great whether you traditional or self-publish.
When I started writing in this second season of my life two years ago, I had no Plan B. Plan A was to write and traditionally publish. It’s been slow going and I’ve learned a few things along the way. Now, I’m considering self-publishing for several positive reasons. Good luck with your journey.
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I went with Plan B out of impatience when I didn’t have to. I already had an agent (which was Plan A) but I was too anxious and impatient, so I self-published. Big mistake for me because I knew nothing about promoting my book and it went nowhere. I could have had a traditional publishing contract if I’d just held on. I suppose my new Plan B will be to be patient.
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Stephen, if you still need Male volunteers, I’d enjoy contributing to your process. Let me know.
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Thank you Jon. Could you drop me an e mail via the contacts page so we can discuss further.
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Done
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Good job and all that! I can pretend to be male, if it helps. Although, I’m seriously doubting I have time to read it even as a female. If you really had to turn away hordes of groupies, I’m happy to give them my place in line.
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If you think you won’t have the time I would rather you said now that later down the line. I’m really relying on the beta readers to deliver what I need in terms of feedback.
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Then I will step to the side (*bowing*) and regrettably give my place to the next in line.
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Ok. Thank you for your honesty.
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Stephen. I will take part if you still need people. I am also in the process of publishing a book and hoping for more endorsements. Would you be willing to read mine? Its a study on prayer.
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My husband does not have WordPress but said he would be willing to read it if you’re still looking for someone to read it.
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Thank you. Could you send me an e mail via our contacts page so we can discuss further.
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My plan B
My friend was expecting child number 11. We were both convinced it was a boy. I had finally learned how to crochet granny squares (thanks to you tube) so I decided to make her a blanket. I made a pink one for practice and then made a blue one for her. She sent me a text from delivery room and say it’s a girl. My response omg it’s a good thing I have a back up plan and she received my very first granny square PINK blanket!
Have a fab day!
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That’s a crazy story lol. Thank you. I hope you had a great day as well.
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Plan B for test readers can be to hold excess readers in reserve, in case members of the first batch of readers realize they can’t finish in time. Plan C can be to offer the remaining additional readers a go at the revision that comes about because of the feedback from the first set of readers. Plan D can be to determine which, if any, of the many reader applicants you have on file now are willing to read the finished book and post a review on their blogs, and to reserve them for that function (or, if they’re not book-review bloggers, for them to do an ARC posting on your page at your print-on-demand provider’s e-store or other online merchant). Plan E can be to find out how many prospective test readers would prefer to listen to an audiobook edition, for when you’re prepared to publish in that medium . . . . Choices, choices, choices! 😉
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It’s an endless list Christine. Thank you 😊
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You’re in this thing! Hang in there. First opportunity to show just how thick your skin is. Your gonna do great. Come on brotatos! Help a dude out.
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Thank you Amy. I’ve had a few replies which is encouraging. I’m off work for a few days so intend to blast away at the draft I will be sending the beta readers. I hope to be able to send the first ten chapters to people within the next few days.
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That’s awesome! Good luck. Can’t wait to hear how it goes
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I will continue to bore you on a regular basis, never fear. Any response to your query letters?
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I’ve got 3 out right now. Gunshy to do more. Feel like my attention is too divided right now. 😕
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Gunshy? I have no idea what that means 😂
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It means afraid to go for it. Not a pretty term really. As opposed to trigger happy.
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You shouldn’t be afraid. You have the talent. It will happen I’m certain of that.
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Likewise 😀
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My writing partner and I are starting our first book now. Reading this post has served as further inspiration to push forward with our goal. Thank you, and wishing you success in your endeavor!
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You’re welcome. I hope it goes well for you as well 😊
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I cannot wait to hear how the process goes for you!!! Also, I just realized for some reason it looked like I wasn’t following your blog, I’m not sure why as I get your posts in my Reader, but I clicked the follow button just in case 🙂
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Hurrah! Either today or tomorrow I will be sending out the first batch of the novel to my beta readers. Would you like to be included? Fionnuala was singing your praises the other day and said you would be ideal. But I also know how busy you are so totally understand if you couldn’t commit right now.
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Oh my goodness!!! She is too sweet!!! Yes, I’m not sure if I can. With the blogging, my book, and I’m helping another writer with her story I’m not so sure. Thank you so much for the offer, that really means a lot to me!! Sometimes I have so much doubt against me that I know nothing as a writer, and I just want to crawl into a corner. I need to stop that. I’m so thankful for everyone and how we can encourage each other. I really look forward to this next step in your writing and editing!
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No problem. Thank you.
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Hi. Could you post the blurb of your book on your WordPress site? I’m interested but am based in Australia.
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Hi Liz. I have in previous posts but will do again in the near future. I hope you enjoy the book when it comes out.
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