You will get a professional beta reading of your fiction novel, novella, or short story
Top Rated

Top Rated

Project details
I excel in writing and recognizing language that flows naturally. The first priority of a writer is to make sure that the reader understands what the writer is saying. The second priority is the delivery of that information. I have helped authors recognize what works for the reader and what does not. Character development, plot development, pace, and resolution play a huge roll in reader satisfaction.
In-line comments
*any language that feels unnatural or clunky
*questions that I have as a reader that your readers might also have
*inconsistencies
*things that surprise or work really well
Written report
*This will be a short document that addresses the work as a whole. I will highlight the strengths and give constructive feedback on the areas that may need improvement.
PLEASE NOTE
*This is an opinion. My goal is not to infringe on your artistic creativity. My desire is to help you deliver your work in a way that connects with your audience.
Please contact me so we can discuss you specific needs.
In-line comments
*any language that feels unnatural or clunky
*questions that I have as a reader that your readers might also have
*inconsistencies
*things that surprise or work really well
Written report
*This will be a short document that addresses the work as a whole. I will highlight the strengths and give constructive feedback on the areas that may need improvement.
PLEASE NOTE
*This is an opinion. My goal is not to infringe on your artistic creativity. My desire is to help you deliver your work in a way that connects with your audience.
Please contact me so we can discuss you specific needs.
Genre
Fantasy, Fiction, RomanceLanguage
EnglishWhat's included
| Service Tiers |
Starter
$20
|
Standard
$50
|
Advanced
$80
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery Time | 2 days | 4 days | 7 days |
Number of Words | 5000 | 20000 | 40000 |
Sample Line Edit | - | - | - |
Reader Report |
14 reviews
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KM
Kelly M.
Feb 3, 2025
James was a delight to work with. He was both insightful and easily shared his experience. He is likeable and as the saying goes, "I would let him date my sister." Being a new writer he was patient with me. And the feedback he provided, I incorporated into my writing. He shined a light on my blind spots. Nothing better than another pair of eyes, especially when they see better than you. This is the second time I worked on my short story with James. Each time my story was better. And I'm a better writer.
KM
Kelly M.
Jan 24, 2025
Thank you for your work. I appreciate the extra explanations I apologize for not paying you sooner. This is the first time I used Upwork. I thought you already had been paid. Once again, my appoligies.
MM
Mark M.
Aug 13, 2025
EST NOVEL BETA READING
James was a delight to work with. I was fortunate to have found him to beta read my novel. His qualifications certainly exceed the job requirement, but he went above and beyond to deliver an insightful and thorough report, which included clear and actionable feedback that was professionally presented. I also appreciate his commitment to delivering on time --I'm a stickler for deadlines and find more often that people don't respect them -- and formally updating me on his status at the halfway and three-quarter milestones. Certainly plan to hire James again, he's top-notch!
TR
Tim R.
May 4, 2025
Manuscript Evaluation Developmental Edit
Thank you for your time. I will be going in another direction for completion of this contract. Best of luck to you.
YW
Yuanzhe W.
Apr 19, 2025
Writer for a Story Series
I feel that this person can be reliable and be helpful with anyone who needs work on their project. There are many things that can be learned from this freelancer. To me, I feel you can benefit from their editing techniques.
RE
Roger E.
Apr 10, 2025
Murder Mystery - Beta Read
IM
Ingrid M.
Mar 24, 2025
Dev Analysis / Beta Reader - 100k SF Novel
James was amazing to work with. Very amiable, very thorough, and great attention to detail. I'd work with him again in an instant.
About James
Author & Developmental Critique
100%
Job Success
Hoxie, United States - 4:34 am local time
I approach each project as a writer first and provide the feedback that I would want as a writer.
Developmental critique is my specialty. My goal is to help you strengthen your work. I’m flexible and can easily adjust to your needs and requirements.
Most of my work has been one-on-one with individual authors. I don’t take on projects outside my range and if it’s not a good fit I’ll tell you. My reputation is more important than income.
Questions? Just ask.
Steps for completing your project
After purchasing the project, send requirements so James can start the project.
Delivery time starts when James receives requirements from you.
James works on your project following the steps below.
Revisions may occur after the delivery date.
I will read the work
This will allow me to get a feel for the work as a whole. I will be assessing if the work is engaging and easy to follow. Things like pace, plot development, character development, plot holes, and the natural cadence will be noted.
I will review notes and revisit the work
This gives me a chance to look closer at the areas that felt unnatural or problematic for me as a reader.