For Christmas 2015 (this xmas? last xmas? I’m so confused) I printed out the first four chapters of my work-in-progress fantasy novel, The Children of Falore, as part of my younger sister’s gift.
She loved it. And by that I mean that the next day she marched up to me demanding more. So I’ve been printing chapters as I finish them (yesterday she devoured chapter six).
When I gave those chapters to her, my plan wasn’t to get a free beta reader. But that’s exactly what I ended up with. Yes, she absolutely loves the story, but she’s also not afraid to point out flaws.
“I’m confused about where they are. Can you draw a map?”
“I love this character. You should write more of him.”
“I still don’t understand [plot point]. You need to explain it better.”
Etcetera, etcetera. Not only does my sister not concern herself too much with hurting my feelings in terms of telling me what she doesn’t like or understand, she’s very quick to provide feedback. If I give her a twenty-page chapter, she’ll have it read in fifteen minutes. What’s more, she stays after me to keep working.
I didn’t ask her to do any of that. I didn’t plan it. I just wanted her to have fun reading the first chunk of my story. In return, and quite unintentionally, I’ve found the best beta reader ever.
You Write Fiction 
I love that she’s honest and unafraid to hurt to your feelings. Most family members fear those things because they don’t want to hurt you. Congratulations on finding a magnificent beta reader. Tell your sister she’s providing exactly what you need.
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Will do! Do be fair, I’m not easily offended by first draft critiques, but yeah, she’s great! 😀
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I completely agree with both of you. You have written another awesome post Mr. Nate Philbrick. Congratulations on the support.
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Thanks, Steven!
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Sounds like you’ve found a perfect beta reader! I found a family-type beta this christmas too. My aunt (who is a big reader/kindle fanatic) found out I’m in the process of finishing my novel and she immediately told me to give it to her to read/edit etc.. (my mum is my normal beta reader, but I believe she holds back in case she hurts my feelings).
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Yeah, she’s great! I can imagine that 🙂
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My two younger sisters are my main beta readers too. They’re also the ones who nag me to keep writing. Kinda like two substitute consciences. 🙂
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That’s awesome! I bet they’re super helpful 🙂
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