That's a whole new idea for me, Gud -- I've only ever asked people to read something as a favor (and then reciprocated later), or read aloud in critique group.

Thanks so much for the good wishes, everyone! Expect ... well, some freaking out and requests for help as I finish the book, for sure.

That's a whole new idea for me, Gud

Everything is new for me. I'm 1 for 3 trying the exchange. The one is great and doesn't pull any punches. We have very different styles, so I don't agree with everything she points out, but everything is worth considering. One never really got off the ground, and the other is going so slow as to not really do me much good.

As a general note, I'm open to beta reading for anyone here if you need one.

One never really got off the ground, and the other is going so slow as to not really do me much good.

I imagine it's going to be a crap shoot unless it's people you know well, but the one does sound great, so yay!

That one has worked out really well so far. Her story is very character driven with loads of POVs and seeing events unfold slowly from different perspectives. Mine is very plot driven with a definite primary POV and things unfolding pretty rapidly from mostly one perspective. So her most common critique is not enough time developing characters and setting, and mine is scenes that don't seem to advance the story. I mean aside from all the little stuff. I think it's working pretty well.

Agent Kate was knocked out with a cold, so I won't know until tomorrow whether it is unsalvageable garbage or if we're in a good place to go forward.

I feel like throwing up.

Amy & Barb, I'm so happy for you both!

Allyson, no throwing up. Deep breaths.

And now it's tomorrow, Allyson!

I just keep thinking it can't be good news. I do realize I am a pessimist.

No news is no news. I don't think it's good or bad in this case. Good luck!

I got my critique done just in time. The rest of the is soccer and painting. Tonight maybe I'll start on 23, my favorite section of the story is here finally.