Comments will be provided in the manuscript itself, and I'll also include a write-up with more detailed feedback and advice. I'll be happy to focus on a particular element of your choice (like setting or character) and to be as light or in-depth as you'd like, depending on where you are in the drafting process.

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Being painfully sensitive to critical feedback myself, I like to provide beta reading with a smile. My comments, even critical ones, will be framed in pleasant way, and I'm always careful to avoid over-commenting on the same element if an error is repeated. Some authors like their beta readers to be blunt and to do away with pleasantries - if this is what you're looking for I might not be the right reader for you! My aim is to keep you feeling as comfortable as possible while also providing excellent feedback about your book. Think of my beta read as fun commentary from a close friend or big sister who knows her stuff but also cares about your feelings. I have no interest in doling out tough love.

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With over 10 years of experience as a merchandiser for Kobo, and as a founding member of Kobo's self-publishing department, I have an excellent understanding of bookselling and the current eBook market. I'm also a novelist writing in multiple genres, with extensive personal experience in self-publishing. I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Creative Writing, and a Master's in English Literature. I'm basically all books all the time! 
 

I spend my days helping authors promote their books - why not let me spend my nights helping tweak yours to perfection?

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      "I highly recommend Shayna as a beta reader. She was professional, easy to work with, kept to a quick
      turn around and offered valuable insights into my novel manuscript. She was considerate in her criticism,    

      very helpful with her suggestions, and encouraging in her overall assessment. Her input not only helped me

      improve my novel, but inspired me to keep working on it."

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      Laura Catalano, author of The Love Song of Darius Dempsey

AVAILABILITY: Currently accepting manuscripts.

RATES: $0.002 USD per word ($2 per 1,000 words). Any manuscripts shorter than 20,000 will require a flat fee of $50 USD.

GENRES: All genres accepted, though I am partial to teen, literary, romance, and mystery.

TURNAROUND TIME: Approximately 2 weeks for 80,000 words. If your book is longer or shorter we can discuss, but please keep in mind that I have a full-time job and a child so super-quick turnarounds are unlikely (but you can always ask!).

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CONTACT: If interested in my beta reading services, contact me here. Please include the title, genre, and word count of your book, as well as a synopsis and your expected read-for date. Attach the first 5 pages of your book which I will read for free, to see if we're a good fit.