How I got 25 beta reader sign-ups in 24 hours (without a huge platform)

I finally finished my big-picture edits and found myself saying... now what? As a new author, from everything I read online, it was time for beta readers. I want to share exactly how I got 25 people to sign up to beta-read for me within 24 hours, without a huge platform.

What I needed before I asked

First things first: a completed, clean, and formatted manuscript. I wanted to make sure the reading experience would be good for my readers. I completed big picture edits, did a pass through my manuscript for grammar, and formatted it in a Google Doc with the following specs:

• Times New Roman font, size 12

• Double-spaced, no extra spaces between paragraphs

• 1" margins

• Indented the first line of each paragraph by .5."

• Used *** to indicate scene breaks

• Footer with page number

• Header with my book title/last name

• Begin each chapter on a new page

• Disclaimer on front page under title: Copyright © 2026 by AUTHOR NAME.

  This manuscript is shared for beta reading purposes only.
It may not be reproduced, distributed, or shared without the author's permission.
  

I knew I was looking for romance readers and also feedback on big-picture elements like plot, pacing, romance satisfaction, etc. I was not looking for line edits and grammar corrections.

The places I asked: Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

After debating on whether or not to pay for beta readers (there's certainly nothing wrong with it!), I learned it's customary to find volunteer beta readers, usually authors or readers of your genre who are happy to help aspiring authors.

I asked other authors how they got their beta readers, and one said that she posted on Instagram. So I did, too!

I made a post on Instagram. See it here. To my delight, fellow authors shared it on their feeds! I also shared it on my stories and pinned the post for a day.

This worked because even though my audience is small, they are reader-focused, romance leaning and engaged in my journey.

I shared the same post on my TikTok, and on the Beta Readers Facebook group, however, Instagram was by and large my biggest source of readers.

What I said in my beta reader call

I made my call for readers very specific as to find the right people. Here's my exact verbiage:

"Exciting news! I'm looking for beta readers for my book, A Matter of Taste. It's a contemporary romance set in Hawaiʻi that follows a chef and food writer with plenty of enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, and workplace-romance vibes. Think sharp edges, witty banter, and open-door spice.

How to apply:

✨ Please fill out the form in my bio if you would like to be one of the first readers

✨ Manuscript (~73K words) goes out March 13

✨ Feedback requested in ~3 weeks"

I stated my premise clearly, what my book is about, my tropes, and deadlines. In my graphic, I stated my word count, where the book takes place, and a full list of tropes.

The Response: More interest than I expected

After an hour or two of posting, a few responses trickled in. That evening, I went to bed with five people filling out the form. "Not bad," I thought to myself. "Maybe one or two of them will actually do it." The next morning? I had 25 Google Form responses! In the notes, people actually wanted to read my book! I was overwhelmed and touched. This was proof that even a small, engaged following can move mountains.

The logistics: Google Forms to the rescue

I set up a Google Form to collect responses. It was extremely important to keep this project organized and everything in one place. I didn't want to sort through DMs or emails.

I asked readers a variety of questions, including what their reading preferences were, their familiarity with romance, their availability and commitment, their ability to give open/honest feedback, and, most importantly, why they wanted to read my book.

The last line in particular helped me choose people who were interested in my story, not just trying to read a free book. Anyone who took the time to fill out that optional question was automatically considered.

I didn’t accept everyone

To my surprise and delight, I had more interest than spots. I couldn't very well manage feedback from 25 different people. Have you ever heard the phrase "Too many cooks in the kitchen?" With editing already on my plate, I wanted to be selective about how many people to choose. I was deliberate in choosing a certain amount. I wanted a variety of perspectives, so I chose 3 editors/authors, 5 heavy romance readers, and 3 regular fiction readers. This would give me a good variety of opinions while also keeping the number manageable.

How I chose my beta readers

I chose people who regularly read romance, as in one or more books a week. I also prioritized anyone who left thoughtful feedback on why they wanted to read my book in particular.

What I sent them

Each beta reader received their own Google doc link for editing. I named each Google doc "Title of Book_Beta Copy_Reader name."

I provided clear instructions, including a timeline for feedback, how to give feedback (directly in the document was best), and a link to a feedback form to fill out after reading. I also reminded them that this was a volunteer opportunity and asked them not to share the manuscript with anyone.

What I said to everyone else

I appreciated everyone who showed interest in reading and wanted to thank them. Each beta reader who wasn't chosen received a personal email from me thanking them for their interest and letting them know that slots filled quickly. I then invited them to follow me on social media for other opportunities (future ARC team?) and to join my newsletter.

What surprised me most

People still read! Honestly, I was shocked that people were interested in my book. Who was I anyway? A new author with less than 100 followers? And still, 25 people showed up and wanted to read my work! I was floored by how quickly responses came in. This goes to show that you don't need a huge following. People are already interested in you and your work!

What I’d do the same (and differently) next time

Overall, this was a very smooth first run to call for beta readers.

What I'd do again:

• Instagram call

• Google Form

• Limiting spots

I might change:

• Making it crystal clear that I am not providing compensation (some folks only wanted to beta read if I paid them, I found out after the fact, despite my advertising, it was a volunteer opportunity)

• Number of readers (depending on how this round goes)

• Probably not utilize Facebook

Final thoughts: You don’t need a huge platform

Putting your work out there for people to read can be the scariest feeling in the world. Maybe no one but you has seen your work. But what I've found is that the community is supportive, friendly, and eager. By showing up consistently and putting yourself out there, you will reach your writing goals.

14. Be a part of my future beta or ARC team

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