Want to beta-read a short SF story?

 

I’m looking for a couple of beta-readers for a short SF story that’s about 7400 words. If you have time, I’d love to get your reader responses. Just drop your willingness into the comments here on my site and I’ll send the password along.

Here’s a teaser.

 Wary of Iguanas

by Mary Robinette Kowal

The iguana was probably some kid out for a joyride. A wetware patch covered nearly its full back in a web of gold and silicone. Tilda opened the window and leaned out to pluck the iguana off the branch. That was the thing about animals with amateur mind-riders — their instincts were slow.

She dropped the iguana into a carry-crate and threw a cloth over it. “No trespassing signs apply to anything with an intelligence on board, but I’ll drop your critter near a street sign.”

“Most people would euthanize the thing.” Helmut pulled a fresh wetware patch out of the fridge and opened the sterile packet. “You’re a softie.”

“It’s not the iguana’s fault his person is an idiot.” Still, given the nature of her contract with the German government, she couldn’t take the chance that it was a joyrider. Tilda carried the crate past the row of benches that dominated the saddle room and set it outside in the hall. “Go ahead and start calibrating and I’ll join you in a minute.”

Did you know you can support Mary Robinette on Patreon?
Become a patron at Patreon!

56 thoughts on “Want to beta-read a short SF story?”

    1. I usually do this in two waves, so if you can’t get to it right away, just make sure that you refresh the page where the story is before reading so you have the most recent draft.

  1. I would love to give it a read. Had an enjoyable time with the Writing Excuses Anthology and “Lady Astronaut,” so this will be cool, I think. Also, depending on when we are talking, I do know a thing or two about Germany…

  2. I’m probably too late for this, but my hat is thrown in on the off-chance the ring hasn’t been packed up.

    If it has, kindly return my hat; it was custom-made. 🙂

  3. I’d love to. I saw my first wild iguana in April. If you need German or Costa Rican readers, please pet me know.

  4. I recognize this and I’ve always wanted to hear the full version. Count me in if you still need more readers.

  5. I’d love to beta read your story, just let me know if there’s anything in particular you want me to look out for.

    Andrew

  6. The “Lady Astronaut” is one of the best SF stories I have ever read ( see me raving about it here: http://goo.gl/YIiYvU ). I would love to get to read your next story and help in any way I can. 🙂 This said I am an Engineer and I may not the best pick as a beta-reader.

  7. Hi Mary – if it’s not too late, I’d love to read it. Interesting hook. 🙂

    (Disclaimer – no real experience writing, though a lifetime’s worth of experience reading.)

Comments are closed.

Scroll to Top