A Writer’s Friends by Rebecca Seaton

 

A Writer’s Friends by Rebecca Seaton

 

Intro

Writing is not the solo occupation we sometimes think, writers need a team. God Himself loves unity – the Trinity acts as one. The dedication in one of my books is Proverbs 17:17: ‘A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity.’ The principles of fellowship and discipleship can be applied to our writing journey just as easily as to our spiritual one.

Beta Readers

The author is the alpha reader, so the beta reader comes next. They haven’t lived through the process, they’ll be your first ‘ouside’ reader. Think carefully about who you choose and your expectations. It might be someone close or someone professional depending on your needs and circle. You need someone you trust, not just to say ‘That’s nice’ but to honestly give constructive feedback. A good beta reader can change your writing journey: Stephen King’s wife famously fished ‘Carrie’ out of the bin and gave him pointers for changes, providing a turning point in his career.

                                                        My very faithful writing group.

Mentor

A mentor goes deeper than a beta reader. They’re actually assisting with craft and you will have gone to them as someone who can improve your writing. This may be a writer who’s a few steps ahead of you or an old-timer, either way, they will look critically at your text but also seek to encourage you.

Editors

Editors are more official. You’ve probably employed them to look for specifics, They will be working for a specific goal, often for a target market. The writer’s role is to listen to and weigh their words. You won’t always agree and may have a very good reason for doing things your way but they’re the experts. Appreciate their wisdom, experience…and accountability.

First follower and publicity team

When I won second prize in the Pen to Print Book Challenge, one of the judges told a story about how he’d given the first few chapters of my novel to his daughter and she asked him for the rest so she could stay up to finish it. This was the first ‘fan’ I had outside of my own family and friends. This first follower is critical as they bring a natural enthusiasm to others while encouraging you that there is worth in what you’re writing. Faithful followers, friends and readers are also critical at events and online.

 

Next Steps

 

Consider who you’re sharing work with and how. I’d love to hear more about the teams we all have and the community we’re weaving as we write.

 

 

Rebecca writes fantasy novels, wrangles cats, chicks and children in various capacities and is becoming increasingly obsessed with steampunk.