Confessions of an Alpha Reader

The alpha reader wolf

This weekend, I'll be working on the first set of suggestions for my second novel, From the Charred Remains, compliments of my alpha reader (a.k.a my dear husband Matt).

Even though I sometimes gnash my teeth and grimace over his comments ("Who cares if I start three sentences in a row with "And"? "What do I care what color this character's eyes are?"), I think he gives really good comprehensive feedback.

So I asked him to offer his insights into what it's like to make suggestions on a novel in progress. (Disclaimer--he says some nice things in here about me, which I really didn't make him say).

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I’ll never forget the moment that I finished reading the very first draft of A Murder at Rosamund’s Gate. After years of knowing next to nothing about the novel, suddenly all had been revealed. (So true, I never told him I was writing a novel. --SC)  I remember feeling many emotions, with pride and awe being the most salient. 

I recall thinking, “Wow, this feels like a novel that people buy from Barnes & Noble!  How did she create this vivid world and these vibrant characters?  How did she develop this compelling mystery that kept me guessing until the end?  How did she weave such interesting historical details into story?  Just wow.” 

Then came feelings of satisfaction and contentment—“What a great ending”—and a yearning for more—“I miss Lucy already.  I wonder what will happen in the next book?!?” 

After sharing these thoughts with Susie, she reminded me that the other duty of the alpha reader is to provide constructive feedback.  I remember feeling ill-equipped for this task.  “Who am I to give a critique?  I’ve never written a novel and I doubt that I ever could.  What can I offer that would be of any value?”

During my careful rereads of various drafts, I learned that I could provide some valuable feedback (e.g. "Why would this character do that?" "I thought you said it was raining outside," or "You know you said this character was dead--what is he doing talking to Lucy?"). Susie subsequently rewarded me with a variety of titles: Vice President of Continuity Management, Head of Repetition Detection, and Director of Necessity Questioning. 

Although these titles are simply meant for fun, I take great pride in them and I am thrilled that Susie asked me to continue in these roles for book two: From the Charred Remains!   Having recently read the first draft of FTCR, I found myself filled again with awe and pride—“How did she do it again?”—and a yearning for more—“When will book three be ready?!?”

Can you relate to any of these experiences?  Feelings of pride and awe in the accomplishment of someone close to you?  The tough position of providing constructive feedback? 

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