Not sure if your story’s first pages are pulling their weight?
You’ve poured your heart into your opening — and for good reason. Those pages introduce your characters, build your world, and shape a reader’s first impression.
But they can also be the hardest to evaluate on your own.
This critique is a low-commitment, high-support way to finally get clarity on what’s working beautifully… and what might be causing readers to disconnect.
Maybe you’re wondering:
✨ Does my protagonist spark interest right away?
✨ Is my worldbuilding clear without being overwhelming?
✨ Will readers feel compelled to turn the page, or quietly set it down?
I’ll help you refine your beginning so it feels polished, immersive, and irresistible.
What’s included
Line-Level Feedback on Your First 5–10 Pages
Light, purposeful margin notes focused on clarity, flow, and emotional impact. I’ll show you exactly where your opening sparkles and where it stumbles. If something feels “off” (like that weird moment on page 3 you can’t name), I’ll pinpoint why so you’re not guessing.
A Big-Picture Editorial Letter
A 1–2 page summary covering voice, character setup, worldbuilding clarity, pacing, and genre alignment. This is your roadmap from “Is this even working?” to “I know exactly what to do next.” You’ll know what’s enchanting readers already, and what needs strengthening.
Action-Forward Recommendations
A clear, sequenced list of what to revise first, second, and third. No overwhelm, no contradicting edits, no spinning your wheels. You’ll always know the next, most effective step to take.
Loom Video Walkthrough
A personalized screen recording where I talk through your pages, explain my reasoning, and highlight patterns. It’s like sitting beside me while I edit — a mini masterclass you can revisit anytime for clarity or confidence.
30-Minute Post-Critique Consultation
After you’ve had time to absorb everything, we’ll hop on a call to talk through your notes, revisions, and lingering questions. It’s your space to get real-time clarity and walk away feeling steady and supported.
Two Weeks of Unlimited Email Support
The real questions always show up during revision. If you get stuck, want reassurance, or need help applying a note, I’m here — ready to offer guidance, encouragement, or a gentle reality check when you need it most.
“I was nervous about getting professional feedback, but Nina’s approach made the entire process so easy.
She offered insightful suggestions while respecting my voice, and her notes were always clear, constructive, and encouraging. My book is so much stronger because of her!”
— JORDAN S., ROMANCE AUTHOR
I know having your story edited can feel thrilling, scary, and incredibly vulnerable. You’ve poured yourself into these pages, imagining late-night plot twists, emotional turning points, and characters that feel like friends. Handing your story to someone else takes courage.
With over 15 years of editing experience and a deep love for fantasy and romance, I bring both an expert eye and a bookworm’s enthusiasm to every project. Whether your opening is full of prophecy and peril or longing and tension, I’m here to help you shape it into something unforgettable.
You’ve lived inside your story for so long that spotting the cracks can feel impossible — and that’s okay. My goal is to help you see what’s already magical and where your story can shine even brighter, with thoughtful guidance that always respects your voice.
You (and your readers) deserve an opening that feels captivating from the very first page.
Hi, I’m Nina
MEET YOUR EDITOR
Here’s how it works...
Book your critique
.01
Reserve your spot and upload the 5–10 pages you’d like feedback on. You’ll get a confirmation email with everything you need to send me your work.
I’ll review & send back your critique
.02
Before our call, I’ll send over a marked-up Google Doc and a Loom video walking you through my comments, so you’ll have plenty of time to absorb it all in advance.
We’ll meet to chat through your edits
.03
Then, we’ll hop on a 30-minute Zoom call to discuss your pages, unpack the edits, and answer any lingering questions about your story, next steps, or writing process.
This is perfect for you if…
You’re not sure your opening is strong enough yet (and want honest, constructive feedback to help you level up).
This isn’t the right fit if…
You’ve never worked with an editor and want to dip your toes in before committing to a full-service edit.
You’re prepping to query or self-publish and need a second set of expert eyes on your opening.
You’re here to genuinely grow as a writer — not just collect gold stars and compliments.
You’re looking for feedback on your entire manuscript (Fairy GodReader might be a better option!).
You haven’t written your first pages yet (or aren’t quite ready to share them).
You’re only looking for quick grammar and spelling fixes (this critique goes deeper than that).
You’re not open to receiving thoughtful feedback that will help you grow as a writer.
Investment:
Includes line notes, an editorial letter, a Loom walkthrough, a 30-minute call, and 2 weeks of support. (Full developmental edits typically start at $2,000+.)
Timeline:
The practical bits...
Best Suited for:
Especially helpful if you want your opening to feel polished, immersive, and impossible to put down.
