Psychological drama - beta readers wanted

Hi everyone,
I'm looking for a small number of thoughtful beta readers for my completed literary drama novel, The Yellow Door.
The book is set primarily in Scotland and explores the long shadow cast by childhood trauma, the stories families tell (and the ones they hide), and whether it is possible to become something other than the person your past tries to make you.

Themes
The novel explores:
Family secrets and buried histories
Childhood trauma and its impact on adult identity
Memory, grief, and loss
Dementia and the erosion of self
Love, marriage, and emotional vulnerability
Masculinity and emotional resilience
Class, social mobility, and inherited disadvantage
Chosen family versus biological family
Redemption, forgiveness, and second chances
The tension between truth and self-preservation

Feedback I'm Looking For
In particular, I'm interested in:
Emotional resonance and impact
Character development and authenticity
Pacing and narrative momentum
Clarity of the mystery surrounding Ava's past
Whether the ending feels earned and satisfying
Any sections that feel slow, confusing, or unnecessary

This is a character-driven novel with literary and psychological elements rather than a fast-paced thriller. Readers who enjoy authors such as Douglas Stuart, Maggie O'Farrell, Anne Tyler, or Sebastian Barry may find it particularly appealing.
If the premise sounds interesting, please comment below or send me a direct message and I'll be happy to provide more details.

Thank you for considering it.

Posted Sep 10, 2026, 7:18 PM UTC

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