Thank you. Your plotathon does sound like an excellent way to shake off the cobwebs. I appreciate the question examples. I hadn’t considered the issue of yes/no questions but open ended ones would obviously draw more comments.
Thanks again for reading and providing a thoughtful comment.

In our “plotahons” we look at the outline and a few chapters. Then we have a discussion (usually paired with Aldi wine). The author talks about what she is struggling with in the story and the readers ask lots of questions that really get the creative juices flowing.

I’ve also found that beta readers are most helpful when you list a few areas that you would like them to look at. For example: “What did you think about the relationship between the protagonist and the wizard?” I’ve also found the following questions to be really helpful: “Where did you lose interest? Where were you confused or lost in the story?”

Be sure never to ask leading questions or those that can be answered with a simple yes or no. For example: “Do you think the wizard was mysterious?”

Good suggestions, Earnie. Appreciate the thoughts. I am revising right now with the goal of 1 August. Figured to toss out the issue early. Keep in mind a reader when you get a good draft.

It is good that you have someone you trust for good feedback. I have months to find that person or persons. Until then trying to get a good revision by 1 August. On pace, if I don’t get too wrapped up in SUMMER!

One thought from my years studying visual arts, have you considered giving the work a bit of time to rest – clearing your head – and then coming back with fresh eyes? I mean, while you’re looking for said beta reader.

But, back to your actual question, I think you should explore the idea with the resources you have around you. Is there anybody in your critique group who seems solidly dedicated? Friends and family should be fine as long as there is the complete understanding that respect is expected, but personal feelings are not to be taken into account. I think it’s an opportunity to learn with somebody how to read and edit and make the suggestions you mentioned. Maybe they feel they lost interest, but don’t know exactly what to say about that. You could work together (discussing it) to understand why and then you’d both be able to spot it more quickly in the future.

Just a thought.

She loves to read, but she and I both inherited a strong analytical nature. And, having grown up together, she knows what to say to get me to listen.

She’s quite good at plot and character development. She leaves the steamy bits for me to sort out as romance isn’t her favorite genre. She prefers fantasy, which fits into other elements of my stories.

I will say, I have struggled finding anyone else, especially in the Romance world, that I really trust to give me good feedback. I’ve tried a couple of online things with no success.

I wouldn’t be adverse to paying for a solid editor, but I haven’t found one in the romance world I don’t think is bunk.