First 50 Pages Audit

Stop writing in the dark. Let’s get your foundation right.

You have a great idea. You have characters you love. You might even have a few chapters written.

But then the doubt creeps in.

  • "Does this opening actually work?"

  • "Is the pacing too slow?"

  • "Will a reader care about this character?"

It is terrifying to commit to writing a 300-page book when you aren't sure if the first 50 pages are doing their job.

That is exactly what this audit is for.


Why the First 50 Pages?

In the publishing world, the first 50 pages are everything. They are the "sample" an agent asks for. They are the "Look Inside" preview on Amazon. They are the moment a reader decides to commit to your story or put it back on the shelf.

If your first 50 pages work, the rest of the book has a roadmap. If they don't, no amount of brilliant writing in Chapter 20 can save you.

What We Will Do

I will read the first 50 pages (approx. 12,500 words) of your manuscript. I am not looking for typos; I am looking for story mechanics.

I will analyze:

  • The Hook: Does the story start in the right place?

  • The Stakes: Is it clear what your character stands to lose?

  • The Voice: Is the narration consistent and compelling?

  • The Pacing: Does the story move, or does it get stuck in backstory?

What You Get

You won't just get a thumbs up or down. You will get a strategic roadmap.

  1. Editorial Letter: A 1-2 page summary of what is working, what isn't, and exactly how to fix it.

  2. In-Line Notes: I will make comments directly on your manuscript pages pointing out moments that shine and moments that stall.

  3. Next Steps: A clear plan for how to move forward into the rest of your draft.


Is This Right For You?

This audit is perfect if:

  • You are just starting a new project and want to make sure the foundation is solid.

  • You are stuck in the "muddy middle" and suspect the problem actually started back in Chapter 1.

  • You are querying agents and getting form rejections on your sample pages.

A Note on Genre: I specialize in Mystery, Thriller, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Historical Nonfiction, and Women’s Fiction. If you write Hard Sci-Fi, Erotica, or Horror, I might not be the best fit for you. If you aren't sure, apply anyway—if I don't think I’m the right coach for your specific story, I will refund your money immediately so you can find the perfect match.


The Investment

Cost: $250

Because I give every manuscript my full editorial attention, I limit this service to a small number of writers per month.

Secure Your Spot For January

(Note: If the link is inactive, it means my audit slots are full for the month. Please join my newsletter to be notified when spots reopen.)

  • ACF Bookens

    As ACF Bookens, Andrea writes cozy mysteries, including The St. Marin’s Cozy Mystery Series and Stitches In Crime, which you can find here.

  • Andrea Cumbo

    As Andrea Cumbo, Andi writes romantic comedies, including The Red Flag Dating Club Series, which you can find here.

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