It Started with a Journal

I never wanted to make an FAQ page; I was lazy, and it kind of seems like overkill. But over time, I've gotten many of the same questions from people, so an FAQ has become a necessary evil, to save everyone time.

So here are the questions I get asked most frequently; I've tried to put them in some semblance of natural order. This list may and probably will grow over time. It's even possible that I might change my mind about something, so the answer will change. Who knows what time will tell?

1. Can you beta read my story?
   
   First off, let me say that I'm flattered you would consider me to beta read for you. : ) Beta reading is a really important part of the writing process, and I fully support and encourage your decision to have someone review your work.
   
   Currently, I only beta read for writers whom I know very well; this is due to several factors:
   
   * I have a number of commitments (including a very demanding and time-consuming job), so I don't have that much free time. What extra time I have I usually devote to other interests, including my own writing. (It takes me awhile to focus as it is; that's why I'm such a slow writer. <g>)
   
   * I am a Very Serious Editor (it's part of what I do in real life). To be perfectly blunt, when I'm in edit mode I generally rip people's work apart, pointing out every single thing I see that could be improved. I've found, through many years of experience, that not many people can take such thorough and honest critique. Therefore I only beta read for people who I know can take my editing style -- it's much more productive for them and for me. For that reason, I also do not do "read over" beta, wherein I only make a cursory examination of the story and make sure it's fit for public consumption (I've found that's all most people really want). I'm really not the right person if that's what you're looking for. The good news is, there are plenty of people out there who can do that for you. : )
   
   * I receive many similar requests, and in an effort to be fair to all (and to maintain some semblance of a personal life!), my policy is to stick with those whom I already beta read for.
   
   What I would suggest is for you to visit the Seekers forum at Fiction Alley Park, or the HP Betas LiveJournal community, where you can find a beta reader or whatever assistance you might need to help you with your story. Also, Strunk & White's "Elements of Style" might be useful. It's one of the most popular and respected grammar guidelines out there. Even the most seasoned writers I know need to refer back to the fundamental rules of writing now and then!
   
   I'm sorry I'm not able to help out more right now, but I wish you the very best of luck in finding a beta reader, and with your writing. : )



2. I don't want a beta reader; I just want someone to read over my story and tell me if it's any good. Can you do that?
   
   Please see my second point above, re: 'read over beta.'
   
   Anyway, opinions vary a lot in fandom, so my opinion wouldn't necessarily gauge a story's likability factor. I have my own tastes and biases, just like anyone else. The best test of whether or not your story is "good" is simply to post your story to an archive and ask for constructive feedback.
   
   However, I would advise getting a beta reader of some kind to review your work. All stories can be improved with a beta reader.



3. Would you like to post stories to my archive?
   
   Thanks for offering!
   
   I'll definitely consider it, but please keep in mind that my answer is likely going to be no. I'm actually a big proponent of consolidation, which means posting to fewer archives. I'm quite lazy, and as long as I make my stories available in places where the greatest number of people will be able to enjoy them, I'm fine.



4. Can I recommend your story on a messageboard?
   
   Sure, as long as you provide a link to the story that's already available elsewhere, and not reposting the story in its entirety. I like to maintain full version control over my stories. Thanks for the rec!



5. Would you mind if I added you to my LJ friends list?
   
   Not at all! Be my guest; you don't have to ask. Just make sure you know what you're getting yourself into. <g> See my bio page if you don't.
   
   Please understand that due to time obligations I won't be able to add everyone back.



6. I want to read one of the stories on your sidebar! Can you link me to it?
   
   I've linked as many as I could find. For those that aren't linked, your best bet is to Google the title/author, or visit Fiction Alley, Portkey, the Fire & Ice Archive, or FanFiction.net. If you can't find it by any of those methods, chances are the author has now made their story unavailable on the Web for whatever reason. Nothing I can do about that.



7. Can I use your icons?
   
   * If you mean the icons that I have made (for fandoms such as Alias and Arrested Development), absolutely. That's what they're there for. Just please be sure to follow the usual guidelines for taking icons -- credit me in the icon keywords, and please comment letting me know which one(s) you're taking.
   
   * If you mean one of the icons that I'm using on LJ, again the answer is yes. However, in that case please be sure to note who made the icon (I credit each one), and be sure to credit the appropriate icon maker when you upload it. If there are restrictions to taking a particular icon, I'll note that in the comments area.