Beta Reading
Ever had a goblin read your writing?
As an avid reader, book blogger, fantasy writer, editor, and marketer, I wear many mushroom hats—all of them pertaining to storytelling.
If you need someone to help patch plot holes (I have big sticks and little sticks), hiss at your characters when they step out of line, and screech into the void when something doesn't make sense, I'm your goblin.
About Me
Jordan Duncan graduated with a BA in English in 2020 and began editing freelance that same year. She is a member of the Quill & Crow Publishing House editing team, and she offers her pen to authors and presses who wish to honor her with their words.
For Jordan's full editing credits, see her editing page!
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Services
I primarily beta read YA and adult fiction. This includes novels, novellas, short stories, and micro-fiction. I have the most experience with fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, contemporary romance, dystopian, suspense/horror, and literary gothic. I accept works with nearly every type of content, but please include content warnings with your request so I can make an informed decision.
I do not offer beta reading for nonfiction or fiction centered on modern religious/political themes. If you are unsure whether your writing falls under my expertise, contact me with a description of your work.
Since beta reading covers a broader scope than editing, I suggest reading a few of my reviews to assess common themes I look for. You can also check out my writing tips for general pointers.
I offer a free sample review of the first chapter (up to 2,500 words) for works 25k words or over. Note that this will not reflect the extent of a full beta read, but if you are satisfied with my commenting style, the sample will be used to help determine your final quote.
General Read
A general read is one read-through that looks for common issues and areas to focus on in rewrites. This is recommended for authors who want publishing-focused feedback to implement as they see fit. I will:
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Screech at plot & logic holes and offer sticks to patch them accordingly.
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Sniff out narrative & character inconsistencies and poke them until they make sense.
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Scurry around awkward pacing or confusing passages until they're more confused by me (and shape up).
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Point and hiss at sections that can be cut or added to.
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Bonk overused phrases to look out for.
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Leave gobliny commentary, including all the things that please my eyeballs or make me wail in eternal sadness.
Detailed Read
A detailed read includes everything a general read does, plus in-depth suggestions that go beyond general fixes. The detailed read includes 2 read-throughs to ensure changes have been implemented successfully and to address remaining concerns.
This includes suggestions for:
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Sections and/or chapters to slash or shoo elsewhere for better pacing and clarity.
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Hex your characters when their dialogue or actions are not in line with the author's vision or their characterization.
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How to weave fae magick through plot and subplots so they flow well and have a satisfying resolution (if applicable).
Note: The detailed read is not meant to stand in for developmental editing and will not suggest drastic changes. Though it targets a lot of the same elements and can be an affordable alternative to dev editing, it is feedback to base your rewrites on and not editorial guidance.
Note: These prices are guidelines to help estimate cost. Since each project is unique and requires different types/levels of beta reading, please contact me for an official quote. There is no obligation to hire me for requesting information.
Payment
After the beta reading agreement is signed, half of the total cost will be due before work begins, with the remainder due upon project completion (with the exception of projects under 30k words, which will be due as one payment at the end). Invoices will be sent for your records on both counts. I do not charge taxes or service fees; the final quote I give is the only amount you will pay.
I accept payment through PayPal, but alternatives will be considered upon request. I also offer flexible payment plans for indie authors – just ask! :)
Beta Reading Calendar
Testimonials
"Over the years, I've worked with many beta readers, and Jordan is one of the best. She understood the vision I had for my novel instantly, and helped me see ways to realize it that I'd never thought of. With the advice she gave me, I'm excited to rewrite my novel and make it become what Jordan saw it could be."