I keep catching myself grinning for no reason—while doing the dishes, or writing notes as my trainer drones on and on. I am happy when I should be utterly exhausted. And I am exhausted, yet this strange, beautiful energy inside won’t stop sparking. Why? Because yesterday, something amazing happened. My 477-page manuscript, Because I Chose You, was finally sent out into the world.
It went out to four brave souls who agreed to be my readers. In the writing world, they’re referred to as beta readers. That term always reminded me of a betta fish swimming around in a bowl—beautiful, but going nowhere. These four, however, are going to do wonderful things for my story. First and foremost, they’ll read it. All 44 chapters, 116,491 words, and 477 pages. That’s a big ask right there. Then they’ll add their comments, look over the questionnaire, and answer the questions honestly without fear of hurting my feelings. Trust me, in the writing world, we love feedback. It makes us better at our craft. My readers come from a wonderfully varied and broad spectrum, and I could not be more thankful that they enthusiastically said “yes” when I asked. I am painfully aware that my genre is not their usual favorite, but they all share one crucial thing: they love stories.
I am humbled to have them read Because I Chose You. Why? Well, because I know they are all avid readers, and I know who their favorite authors are. This means they have read many, many excellent books. That terrifies me, because I am so far down the ladder compared to the authors they usually read. Yet, it excites me because I know they recognize a good story when they see one. Their honest feedback will help point out exactly where I need to tighten, tweak, or renovate.
So yes, it’s been a busy, chaotic, challenging week—and one I won’t soon forget. Prayers went out with each manuscript I emailed. My desire is that Because I Chose You will touch the hearts of the people who read it, and maybe even change their way of thinking for the better. May they fall in love with my characters as much as I did.
I have much to learn. The art of writing a story that lives, breathes, and moves hearts and minds is never completely mastered; it’s an ongoing journey. It is one I hope and pray to get better at each and every day. I’ve dedicated this book to the Lord, and I believe He knows the joy I experience when I’m writing and will continue to bless my efforts. If only one person is moved to see things a little differently, love a little better, laugh a little more, or take a little more time to really see each other… well, then I’ve done my part.
Thank you to my beta readers for participating in this adventure. You mean the world to me. And promise me you won’t be too hard on Scott for running his hands through his hair so much. He can’t help himself!
Always grateful,
Pam Torres | Author 