The Joys of Receiving Feedback
All of us writers have heard how crucial it is to have critiquers (I know it’s technically not a word, but it should be!) and beta-readers to help us polish our writing.
What seldom gets mentioned is how entertaining they can be.
I’ve received comments/edits/criticism/etc back from several people on the first few chapters of Catalyst.
Here are some of my favorite ones.
~
I know Zareja can be a tough bitch from our conversations, but I like this little section because it portrays her as simply a woman, one who is a bit frightened and intimidated by what lays before her. For just a moment we see her without being faced with rank, status, and plots afoot. It makes her more human and less ‘I will eat your soul without flinching’.
~
He’s like the creepy guy at the party you can’t get away from… only 100x worse.
~
I love Trist, in a “holy shit this guy scares the hell out of me” way. If that makes sense.
~
I love that the dungeons and executions are by the holy relic. This is a screwed up people.
~
PERCEPTION FILTER SQUEE! (Doctor Who geek out) (We now return to your regularly scheduled critique)
~
I’ve seen Serena give a look much like the one in my head here. Just “Really? No shit, Sherlock. Is there a 4-star restaurant you had in mind or just some bread crumbs in your pocket? What the hell kind of question IS that?”
~
This makes me roll my eyes and giggle at the same time. It’s a nice break in the read. DON’T TAKE IT OUT.
~
Despite the overall seriousness, this makes me snort. It’s a nice touch in several ways. I like it.
~
You actually made me look up a word. But, knowing the definition now, it works. lol
~
FEEEEEEELIIIIIIIIIIIINGS. ALL THE FEELINGS. 😦
~
I heart this scene.
~
If your writing buddies don’t give you feedback like this . . . I’m sorry. You’re missing out.
I love this! So glad you did this post. I also feel special (in a way) that 6 of these were from me… at least I’m entertaining? As long as I’m helpful too, we’re all good. =)
“I will eat your soul without flinching” makes me crack up.
I’m lucky to have a fantastic beta reader. She leaves little comments throughout the manuscript – everything from gut reactions to suggestions for improvement. 🙂
hahaha! I’m totally with you there! I love the random comments that are worked in. With a tough critiquer, they can be the best things ever.
I have to tell you, Rebekah, I am going to pre-order The Catalyst!! I am so excited! I read SO much, I devour stories. This is going to be fantastic!