First Chapters Critique
First Chapters Critique
Strengthen the opening of your novel.
Service Description
This service provides a detailed critique of your partial manuscript (the first 3 chapters or ~50 pages). It’s perfect for authors who want expert feedback on their beginning chapters without committing to a full manuscript edit. By focusing on this critical section, we can ensure your story’s start is as engaging and well-crafted as possible – whether you’re preparing for agent requests or just want to elevate your opening act. • In-Depth Editorial Letter: After a close read, I will write a 2–3 page editorial report assessing the big-picture elements of your opening chapters. This includes feedback on plot hooks, pacing, world-building introduction, character introductions/development, dialogue, and overall writing style. I’ll highlight what’s working well (to keep doing more of it) and pinpoint areas that need improvement or clarification. • Inline Commentary: In the manuscript pages (provided in Word or Google Doc), you’ll see line-by-line comments and reactions. These comments will flag anything that might trip up readers or agents – from confusing sentences to inconsistencies or tonal issues – and suggest specific tweaks. It’s like having a professional reader walk through your chapters with you, reacting in real time. • YA/Spec Fic Expertise: As a YA and speculative fiction author, I pay special attention to genre expectations. For YA, I consider whether the voice and pacing will grab teen readers quickly. For speculative fiction, I look at how effectively you establish your world or speculative element in the early pages. My critique will help ensure your beginning balances necessary setup with forward momentum, keeping readers hooked. • Actionable Suggestions: Along with identifying issues, I provide clear suggestions for revision. For example, if your opening is slow, I might propose reordering scenes or starting the story at a later point. If a character isn’t coming across vividly, I’ll point out where you can deepen their portrayal. You’ll come away with concrete ideas on how to elevate your first chapters. • Follow-Up: I’m happy to answer a handful of follow-up questions via email after you digest the critique. If something in the feedback needs clarification, you won’t be left guessing – I want you to fully understand the critique so you can revise effectively. Flat rate for a synopsis critique, including one follow-up revision review. Up to 3.5 hours depending on the document/feedback - if more time is needed, you can rebook.
Cancellation Policy
Non-Refundable Deposit To secure your booking, a £20 non-refundable deposit (of the total service fee) is required at the time of booking. This deposit covers administrative and scheduling costs, and is non-refundable if you cancel the service. The rest of the payment is required once I've confirmed availability. This is relevant to all events and services. Client Cancellations Author Services: You can cancel the service up to 7 days before I begin the work. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after the work has begun. Events/Workshops & Talks: You can cancel the service up to 21 days before the scheduled event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this period. Rescheduling Option: Instead of canceling, you may request to reschedule your event/service for a later date - for example if you would like to submit a different or edited document, or schedule the event for a different day/time. Rescheduling is subject to availability and mutual agreement. If a new date is arranged, your deposit and any payments already made will be applied to the rescheduled booking. Provider Cancellations In the unlikely event that I am unable to accept or complete the work due to other commitments, timing issues, or unforeseen circumstances, you will be offered the following options: Full Refund: A 100% refund of all payments you have made, including the 20% deposit. Reschedule: The opportunity to reschedule the service to a later date that works for both of us. Transfer to Another Service or Product: The option to apply your payment toward another event or editorial service or product offered by me, as an alternative to a direct refund. Please be aware when working on editorial services I may decline to work on any documents which I feel exhibit intentional racism, transphobia, sexism or ablism but will discuss this first. Cancellation Process All cancellation or rescheduling requests must be submitted in writing via email. Please include your name, project details, and the booking date in your email. I will acknowledge your cancellation or reschedule request in writing. I strive to handle all cancellations and rescheduling requests kindly, promptly and fairly, ensuring a smooth experience for both parties.
Contact Details
Kingston upon Thames, UK
info@klkettle.com