I'll review first chapters... ?

Worthy39

The protagonist's third cousin, twice removed
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I want to feel sorry for you, Otter, but you brought this on yourself by being competent and offering to review stories, so... since everyone else is spamming, might as well throw my hat in the ring. ?

Eidolon Codex
 

LeilaniOtter

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A reminder to folks still seeking reviews to please notify me via private message so I can keep track of things again. I lost a week or so dealing with a miserable housemate getting over a bad tumble in our driveway. *^^*

Your review will also be posted here on the forum along with a link to your work. ?
 

smartpants6

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Could you critique my first chapter and maybe offer some ideas? I feel like I need to revise it but I'm not yet sure how. Thanks!
 

LeilaniOtter

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Could you critique my first chapter and maybe offer some ideas? I feel like I need to revise it but I'm not yet sure how. Thanks!
As I've asked, please approach me with your requests in private message - so I can keep track of folks. *^^*
 

LeilaniOtter

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I reallyyyyy want to give it a go. Are you still available? I only need the first two chapters.

https://www.scribblehub.com/read/21...leads-to-a-god-of-a-new-world/chapter/211238/

Content: Am I enjoying what I'm reading?

I want to make this clear to everyone about first-person narratives.
I LOVE them.
I love reading them and I love writing them, and you know why?
Because you can break so many rules. Dialogue, grammar, sentence structure, etc. The story is being told to us, so we’re only getting the narrator’s perspective and imagery and personality.

That said, it’s still essential that the narrator focuses on some elements of the story that won’t keep us in the dark too much, giving us just a bit without telling too much, and describing enough without showing too much.

On the whole, yes, I liked the rather mysterious Prologue, beginning with a puzzling plotline about “fake” people aboard an airplane heading into a hurricane, that culminates into a wild high-octane life-and-death struggle, and the inevitable crash into the Bermuda Triangle. Then the first chapter, a day earlier, we see a quaint family home and peaceful atmosphere – it’s like a shock of cold water to pull you away from the action before, towards a “cooloff”, and the contrast is powerful.

Overall, very well-written.

The way you’re telling the story also, in single sentences and avoiding long paragraphs, gives off a distinctive “noir” flair, which is another plus. It reads like a Spillane novel, in your face and coming out swinging.

Are the characters standing out?

We have two ways to look at this. In the prologue, we're introduced to Lucifer's father, who is narrating his story first. Immediately, I really was taken with the "cloak and dagger" feel, the mysterious dialogue hinting at something sinister, and then surviving a fight inside the plane, We don't have a lot of time to find out more before we head to Chapter One, and meet Lucifer, his sister Restia, and his magical pet, Ruby. I’m rather floored by Ruby, a most unusual character, and want to know everything about the origins and Ruby’s contributions to the story. So cute in those pajamas! Eeeee! :love:


Does the chapter ending make me want to click "Next"?

Certainly has me curious. We know that the father had to have been called away and somehow ended up on a plane heading towards South America before the accident. So, it’s got me curious how the father ended up there – and how the siblings will respond to this tragic loss later. And of course, I want to see what’s up with Ruby. It senses something wrong and it might be the key to why their father had to meet his possible demise in the depths of the Bermuda Triangle. So…yes! *^^*

How is the pacing?

There’s not a LOT happening in the first chapter, certainly not as much action as the prologue had, but I can tell that the first chapter was meant to be less than the prologue because of the setting and characters. We’re going from 100 mph back down to 35, but it works. It’s how you elicit different emotions from your readers. I think it’s very well done. I appreciate the introduction of some of the main characters from the start too. Rising and falling action throughout your book is a must. *^^*

How is the world-building and do you have a grasp on what you're trying to create?


Here's another drawback with narratives: you’re stuck with the world-building they give you, so if they’re not describing people, places, or things, it can become a bit bland and your mind might wander. I’m the exact opposite; if I’m doing a narration, I try really hard to infuse enough descriptions and details so people get the picture in their heads. You don’t HAVE to do that; again, since it’s a narrative. While I was looking at this, I noticed there were spots where description was touch and go, you said just enough to leave me guessing, and not too much to ruin my imagination. I especially was happy with Ruby’s description. It just sounds too cute for words. :love:

Grammar/Spelling:

Some glaring tense-shifts but nothing really else came to mind. Again, narratives can break every grammar rule in the book. *^^* And it's quite common to shift tenses accidentally in first-person.

Strengths:

High-action beginning with mystery; dialogue was wonderful; unusual sentence structure that really works. Characters are immediately interesting and you want to know more about them.

Weaknesses:

Apart from a few shifts in tense from present to past and back, not really too much else. It’s good writing on the whole. :love:

Overall, a solid A- *^^*
 

LeilaniOtter

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Could you critique my first chapter and maybe offer some ideas? I feel like I need to revise it but I'm not yet sure how. Thanks!


Content: Am I enjoying what I'm reading?

Holy gods in Heaven, am I… *^^*

Good call in writing this gem in third-person, because it really ticks all the boxes in eliciting emotions and providing simple descriptions. We’re right there with Mr. Nate Covington at the funeral, at the lawyer’s office, seducing his first “prize” Margot. Your style of erotica is quite hot, not too forced, just the right details. The writing snaps and pops, with a bit of humor thrown in. In short, a wonderful read. *^^*

Are the characters standing out?

We really just have Nate Covington, who has just been given probably the most enviable power of every heterosexual male on the planet, to deal with throughout the chapter, but right away I liked his aloofness, if I’m honest. He’s very observant, would make a great detective really, but seems to be in many ways the victim, comfortable behind the “why me?” façade. And I liked it. He seems so innocent at first, but readers can tell right away that innocence won’t last and this incredible power will eventually go to his head – because it always does. I’m curious how his character might change in subsequent chapters, with other conquests.


Does the chapter ending make me want to click "Next"?

Well, we need to push forward and find out more about the mysterious woman Margot, who seems to know a lot about this power Nate now controls, including its origins, and stories of the man’s great-uncle. So, yes, definitely curious!


How is the pacing?

I really wanted to like the pacing but I felt it was a little fast.

In one chapter, we’re given a funeral, a lawyer’s meeting, the handing down of the power, the rules behind the power, and the first woman to seduce, all in one chapter.

It just seemed too quick; not enough chance for the reader to catch breath before another element hit. Better would have been the funeral, chapter one; chapter two, the meeting with the lawyer and exposing the letters and perhaps meeting Margot (for the second time) at the end of that chapter, and the sex. There was a lot thrown at us right out of the gate. Nate barely has a chance to even take it all in, about his new power, before it’s tested already.


How is the world-building and do you have a grasp on what you're trying to create?


Couldn’t fault it. Third-person stories sometimes have a habit of being TOO descriptive, too many details, too much unnecessary prose. You give a seamless balance between the three, telling just enough, without showing too much. I commend you for handling all that. I’ve been to way too many funerals in my life, and I was reminded of some of the ones I’ve attended, based on how you wrote this, so kudos!

Grammar/Spelling:

Nothing to fault.

Strengths:

Exceptional writing skills, some of the best I’ve seen yet. Wonderful story and concept, great dialogue, good use of both showing and telling.


Weaknesses:

Slow that pacing down. I would have loved to see something between the time he gets done with the lawyer to meeting Margot. Everything just seemed to happen too fast, in my opinion.

Overall, a solid B+ *^^*
 

LeilaniOtter

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@scions


Content: Am I enjoying what I'm reading?

This is an outstanding first-person narrative. From the smooth precision and flow of the writing, to the great pacing, to the hard-boiled action scene that practically annihilates a board meeting. I loved it and added this one to my reading list. *^^* it’s so unlike a lot of the other works I’ve read here – finally, something not isekai or LitRPG, Yay!

Are the characters standing out?

Leo personifies the very essence of the bored, tired, businessman, and as he tells his story, I was chuckling over the little tidbits of wit and sarcasm coming out every so often. it really helped define him.


Does the chapter ending make me want to click "Next"?

WHERE’S THE NEXT BUTTON???
WHERE IS IT???

Oh, there it is.
*clicks dramatically*


How is the pacing?

This was just the right mix of details, description and action, and you even managed a few inner thoughts to enhance Leo’s character. I suppose, maybe, the meeting should have gone on a little bit longer and we could have gotten a clearer picture of exactly where we are and what Leo does specifically. That’s the only thing; I felt the first chapter was too short; a few meetings doldrums and right to the smashing entrance of the Abberant. *^^*


How is the world-building and do you have a grasp on what you're trying to create?

Yes, absolutely loved it. You created “Deliverance Day”, and gave a good enough background on it that I wasn’t left faltering. And I loved the boardroom details; typical, BORING, just like all boardrooms – until the Abberant arrives anyway. *^^* Great details of that too actually. Sounds like something escaped from a Lovecraftian nightmare. *shivers* Also loved the fight scene with Aegis and the CRS, not too long and winded, it was just right. I was hilariously thinking of “Mystery Men” at times. *^^*

Grammar/Spelling:

A few little past-present tense issues, but on the whole, sensational.

Strengths:

IT'S NOT ISEKAI OR LITRPG!
*^^* I’m finally reading something different!

Fantastic prose, great character in Leo, good world-building, story looks wild!


Weaknesses:

Just slow that pacing down a smidge. I honestly thought you could have done a whole other page and really immerse us into the world you’ve created, before the Abberant shows up and wrecks everything, and the unusual calvary arrives to put a stop to it.


Overall, a solid B+ *^^*

(if others would like a review, please send a private message to me, and I'll happily look over your first chapter (or Prologue/First chapter tops), and provide feedback! Maybe you'll like what I write and become a reader too!) :love:
 

scions

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Sep 13, 2025
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@scions


Content: Am I enjoying what I'm reading?

This is an outstanding first-person narrative. From the smooth precision and flow of the writing, to the great pacing, to the hard-boiled action scene that practically annihilates a board meeting. I loved it and added this one to my reading list. *^^* it’s so unlike a lot of the other works I’ve read here – finally, something not isekai or LitRPG, Yay!

Are the characters standing out?

Leo personifies the very essence of the bored, tired, businessman, and as he tells his story, I was chuckling over the little tidbits of wit and sarcasm coming out every so often. it really helped define him.


Does the chapter ending make me want to click "Next"?

WHERE’S THE NEXT BUTTON???
WHERE IS IT???

Oh, there it is.
*clicks dramatically*


How is the pacing?

This was just the right mix of details, description and action, and you even managed a few inner thoughts to enhance Leo’s character. I suppose, maybe, the meeting should have gone on a little bit longer and we could have gotten a clearer picture of exactly where we are and what Leo does specifically. That’s the only thing; I felt the first chapter was too short; a few meetings doldrums and right to the smashing entrance of the Abberant. *^^*


How is the world-building and do you have a grasp on what you're trying to create?

Yes, absolutely loved it. You created “Deliverance Day”, and gave a good enough background on it that I wasn’t left faltering. And I loved the boardroom details; typical, BORING, just like all boardrooms – until the Abberant arrives anyway. *^^* Great details of that too actually. Sounds like something escaped from a Lovecraftian nightmare. *shivers* Also loved the fight scene with Aegis and the CRS, not too long and winded, it was just right. I was hilariously thinking of “Mystery Men” at times. *^^*

Grammar/Spelling:

A few little past-present tense issues, but on the whole, sensational.

Strengths:

IT'S NOT ISEKAI OR LITRPG!
*^^* I’m finally reading something different!

Fantastic prose, great character in Leo, good world-building, story looks wild!


Weaknesses:

Just slow that pacing down a smidge. I honestly thought you could have done a whole other page and really immerse us into the world you’ve created, before the Abberant shows up and wrecks everything, and the unusual calvary arrives to put a stop to it.


Overall, a solid B+ *^^*

(if others would like a review, please send a private message to me, and I'll happily look over your first chapter (or Prologue/First chapter tops), and provide feedback! Maybe you'll like what I write and become a reader too!) :love:
Thank you so much for the feedback. I do acknowledge I may have ended it abruptly. I would say it was a deliberate decision ?
 

LeilaniOtter

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Thank you so much for the feedback. I do acknowledge I may have ended it abruptly. I would say it was a deliberate decision ?
I really loved it overall. I was just so, so happy it wasn't an isekai or LitRPG story. *^^*
No offense to any other authors; I'm just sick of them. No one really makes them original anymore. :cry:
 
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Since you seem to somehow still be keeping up with your generous offer of reviewing first chapters after two months (!!!!), I shall take advantage of your kind offer and ask for feedback on the first chapter of my "Superhero harem mystery with the most reliable narrator you'll ever meet":
Informed Consent (chapter 1)

No worries if you've tapped out by now; either way I've added "White Fur: Adult Furry Tales of the Supernatural" to my own reading list and look forward to checking it out regardless!
 

Worthy39

The protagonist's third cousin, twice removed
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Not requesting a review (yet), but I just wanted to say that your reviews have been a big help, even though they aren't about my story in specific, reading some reviews on similar stories has given me some basic ideas on what to watch out for, and what could work. Plus, I've picked up some good stories from this thread that you said were good, so I definitely appreciate all your effort! (Just ignore my comment from earlier in the thread...)
 

LeilaniOtter

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Not requesting a review (yet), but I just wanted to say that your reviews have been a big help, even though they aren't about my story in specific, reading some reviews on similar stories has given me some basic ideas on what to watch out for, and what could work. Plus, I've picked up some good stories from this thread that you said were good, so I definitely appreciate all your effort! (Just ignore my comment from earlier in the thread...)
Aw, thank you! :love:
My wasted years as a literary agent paid off somehow. *^^*
*offers cookie* ?
Since you seem to somehow still be keeping up with your generous offer of reviewing first chapters after two months (!!!!), I shall take advantage of your kind offer and ask for feedback on the first chapter of my "Superhero harem mystery with the most reliable narrator you'll ever meet":
Informed Consent (chapter 1)

No worries if you've tapped out by now; either way I've added "White Fur: Adult Furry Tales of the Supernatural" to my own reading list and look forward to checking it out regardless!
I'm not tapped out. I'm simply asking people to address me in private about their projects, so that I can keep track of what I need to do. Okay?
And thanks for becoming a reader of "White Fur". :love: i just finished posting "War" today, and I hope you give that one a look.

 
Last edited:

LeilaniOtter

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Messages
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Since you seem to somehow still be keeping up with your generous offer of reviewing first chapters after two months (!!!!), I shall take advantage of your kind offer and ask for feedback on the first chapter of my "Superhero harem mystery with the most reliable narrator you'll ever meet":
Informed Consent (chapter 1)

No worries if you've tapped out by now; either way I've added "White Fur: Adult Furry Tales of the Supernatural" to my own reading list and look forward to checking it out regardless!


Content: Am I enjoying what I'm reading?

Now and then, I get to read a present tense, first-person narrative, a challenge to write for anyone. Because everything is happening as you read, there’s a tendency to tell more and show more than you need to, because the narrator’s viewpoint is the only one we get. Despite a few quirky bits of dialogue, this works because of the scene and situation we have. A band of superheroes have come to foil a bank robbery, and not only do they see to everyone’s safety, but are reduced to bickering amongst themselves. It is about as corny as it can get, right down to the way Hippocrates, the leader of the harem of superheroes, reminds some of the innocent bystanders about his healing abilities, and their limits – almost like he’s the DM in a D&D game.

I found it all hilarious.



Are the characters standing out?

They are, especially our narrator, Hippocrates, who gives us the lowdown, the lay of the land, the descriptions and highlights of all that he senses. And I really hope he reconsiders trying to offer a massage to Luna – she’s just not that into him. *^^* He’s got wry wit and sensibility, and a good heart, but it’s when he’s addressing injuries, and explaining his powers, you just want to slug him for being INCREDIBLY condescending. *^^* He’s perfect.


Does the chapter ending make me want to click "Next"?

I added it to my reading list, didn’t I? *^^*


How is the pacing?


I really liked it. Again, narratives can sometimes have a problem with pacing, since you’re forced to their viewpoint, but it worked here. The superheroes flying to the scene of the crime, foiling the robbery, assisting the injured, resorting to their little squabbles, everything was quite seamless, and the action stayed brief.


How is the world-building and do you have a grasp on what you're trying to create?


Again, narratives have one observation. I guess I could fault the lack of details in spots, that’s more of a personal perk though. I think the characters really stand out, and that’s what sold me on this book immediately.


Grammar/Spelling:

Nothing glaring


Strengths:


Top notch dialogue; story; pacing; laugh-out-loud comedy; memorable characters


Weaknesses:


I’d probably just say maybe the chapter could have been longer, with more details, but that’s the narrator’s call. *^^*

Overall, a solid A *^^*
 

LeilaniOtter

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Thanks so much for the great feedback!

I'm looking forward to checking out White Fur when I have more reading time over the weekend, because "Adult furry tales of the supernatural" sounds like a real delight.
Very pleased to hear that.
I've been gathering all my old stories over the past two decades and really excited to share them. I just hope people will be alright with the "furry" angles every now and then. ?
 

LeilaniOtter

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Messages
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Not requesting a review (yet), but I just wanted to say that your reviews have been a big help, even though they aren't about my story in specific, reading some reviews on similar stories has given me some basic ideas on what to watch out for, and what could work. Plus, I've picked up some good stories from this thread that you said were good, so I definitely appreciate all your effort! (Just ignore my comment from earlier in the thread...)


Content: Am I enjoying what I'm reading?


The Prologue gives us quite a show of exposition to explain what’s happened in the past. It gives the reader just enough to be curious. I like how you’ve written it also, in sort of a “storybook” fashion, and I think it keeps the reader’s attention. The Prologue does what it was meant to – get the reader moving forward to Chapter One. *^^*

I felt Chapter One was alright too. I know you want to keep your chapters short for readers, so I won’t fault the quicker pacing too much. But I did feel it moved too fast, and it could have used more.


Are the characters standing out?

Definitely. I am drawn to Genki and Reika like a moth to a flame, because there’s something already incredibly special about these teenage childhood friends – especially when the older man Reiji arrives to explain a mission and everyone dons battle armor. *^^* That’s a great way to keep the reader turning pages. Good character development already.

Does the chapter ending make me want to click "Next"?


Sure does. The reader would obviously want to know what’s in store here, and this subsequent battle obviously about to be fought – although, if I’m honest, I’d like to see the battle in Chapter One to keep the flow going.

How is the pacing?

I can’t fault it too much. *^^* I just wish there was more to read from the start. The Prologue wouldn’t even be needed if Genki and Reika were having a chat about the past three years while they were walking home. I just like longer chapters with more stuff going on. That’s a personal perk only.

How is the world-building and do you have a grasp on what you're trying to create?


I’d say yes, but not quite. *^^* Shorter chapters also unfortunately suffer from not enough details and descriptions about where we are, when we are, who we are, etc. I love the Prologue’s story about the mages and all, but…I wish we knew more about them. We only get to know a little about the Spirit Mage in the first chapter.


Grammar/Spelling:


Perfect. I didn’t see a thing wrong.

Strengths:

characters; story; plotting; good writing all around.

Weaknesses:

Pacing and world-building could use just a little improvement. Consider longer chapters, if you can. At least 2500-3000 words are perfect viewing for most of us.

Overall, a solid B- *^^*
 

dekadust

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Waaaaah you still reviewing first chapters? Please review mine.

 

Worthy39

The protagonist's third cousin, twice removed
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Messages
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Waaaaah you still reviewing first chapters? Please review mine.

Let me just save her the effort of reminding everyone. Contact her privately so she can keep track of everything better.
 
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