Curiosity and intrigue are the two most dominant feelings I have when reading this piece. As an opening it does grab the reader's attention. Definitely makes me curious about both the characters and what they are involved in. The inferred 'deadly action' occurring in the opening chapter is very tantalizing.
II. Plot Interest:
There is really not enough information regarding the plot in this opening chapter for me to give much opinion, other than I am very interested in seeing more.
III. Characters:
So far your characters are believable though I am interested in seeing just how they 'flesh-out' in following chapters. Your description of Karn and Treius showing the apparent contrast between the two makes me wonder about the past relationship (i.e. friends or adversaries) and adventures together.
IV. Time/Place/Setting Characteristics:
It's a bit early to make a determination on your time/place and setting, but so far you are staying consistent. One thing I might suggest would be to use a more archaic style in dialogue to help the reader keep in the period. Keep up the good work.
V. Liked Most:
The exquisite humanity you have given your main characters. You have made them so that most any reader is able to relate to them in a very personal way. Giving them each a frailty or flaw makes me want to keep reading to learn more of each of them.
VI. Liked Least:
Actually, there is nothing in this chapter that I can say I disliked, unless it would be the shortness of it. You got my attention and I am ready for more.
VII. What Stands Out:
Your descriptive ability is very good. You give more information about Karn and his background by the way you describe his home as Treius finds it.
VIII. Noticeable Errors:
Several relatively minor errors were noticed. All of which should have been found by use of both spell and grammar checking prior to posting. A little more time proofing your work is always of benefit.
IX. Final Summary & Rating:
In summation, I am rating your Chapter 1 at Four Stars. The reason is primarily that I am waiting to see how both the plot and the various characters develop. Also would like to see this chapter edited for error correction. Please keep up the good work. I am adding you to my list as I am looking forward to Chapter 2.
Review of ID# 818872 - "Guidelines to Great Reviewing" by: The StoryMaster
I found your essay to be quite informative and helpful. Especially to a fledgling
Reviewer. I really had not considered the idea of writing a review as being a writing exercise. As a result of your suggestion, I will be starting each day by reviewing at least one piece here on Writing.Com.
The primary reason for the 4.0 rating is that I did notice several grammatical errors, which your grammar-check should have picked up on, but for the most part they are relatively minor in nature and in no way detract from the content of your work. I would be quite happy to look at this piece again and re-evaluate my rating if you edit it further.
The goal of Reviewing to help the author is the predominant concept of this piece and I certainly agree. Your guidelines have made me re-think what I want to see in reviews of my own work in order to improve as an author. I certainly plan to work harder on the reviews I do for my colleagues as well.
I would whole-heartedly recommend this piece as a required read for all newbie reviewers.
Please keep up the good work and "Write On" my friend, "Write On".
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