I've been working on my book 'The Hidden' for years. I've rewritten the opening chapter about a million times. At least that's what it feels like.
With my latest version, I thought it was the best I'd written, but I had no luck with querying. One agent said that my sample pages just didn't draw her in as much as she had hoped. With just one agent making that comment, I didn't automatically think I needed to change the beginning, but after a few more rejections I decided to take another look at it.
Last week I submitted it to my in person critique group and they brought up a few issues that were spot on and that even after all these years I hadn't really thought about.
It's amazing what a set of fresh eyes will do for a chapter.
How about you? How many pairs of fresh eyes see your work?
10 comments:
At least half a dozen, but with every re-write you need at least two other new sets.
As many as three or four before I submitted it to an agent. Now about two or three.
~ Wendy
Let's just say - lots! Critique partners and beta readers and I let it sit! My opening pages I've rewritten the most, for sure. Good luck!
often a good thing but I do think if taken to extremes it can be a bad thing in that too many opinions can be prove confusing.
Don't get discouraged Patti! Those opening pages are so critical - I think we've all rewritten those plenty of times. I like at least 3-4 sets of eyes- because everybody sees things differently, and I've found that you can't use every thing you hear...
Many fresh eyes! I have two crit groups and a good friend who does major edits for me. I also have a few betas that help me. See? A ton. But every opinion helps.
I have two critique partners that are awesome at pointing out things I have missed.
Hey Patti!
I've missed you! Sorry I've been MIA for so long. Sometimes I really feel jealous of all the people who can hang out on the blogosphere in a weekly basis! lol.
Anyway, the fresh eyes? Well, I always have at least 3 people see my work before I think it's ready. Sometimes a LOT more!
But it's always awesome when lovely people help you see your ms with fresh eyes.
Only three or four. I think we can have too many eyes and then it all gets blurry. But I am glad you got the feedback you needed. It sounds to me like you did the right thing. Now it will REALLY be ready.
P.S. I am finished and will send it in the morning. I'm not home right now. Hugs.
Lots!!!! Fortunately I've got new eyes for my revision request wip, plus some old ones who want to see the new version. :D
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