My views as reviews!

~ The Cursed Blade by @CuteCookie1_ ~

Book Title : The Cursed Blade

Author: CuteCookie1_

Reviewer: _wordmist_addict_

1. Title 

The title is quite basic yet very very relevant to the story. It will definitely catch the eye of the readers who love fantasy and adventure. It gives a little hint to the readers about what the story is about but just enough so that can start reading it. Simultaneously a mystery persists in the minds of readers as they wonder why exactly is the blade or sword cursed. Thus it makes sure that the readers think about the story so good job on that!

2. Cover

The cover is apt and a simple one. But some things are missing for instance the author's name. Incorporate that so the readers can identify you with the book cover. Also try including one liner in the cover somewhere at the bottom because a lot of space is available there. It will also help in making good first impressions. But overall the look and feel of the cover is great.

3. Blurb

I think the blurb is the best thing about the book. It is written just perfectly! It conveys the theme of the story and at the same time leaves space for the readers to explore the mystery of the story themselves. So good job done. It certainly attracts the readers to the book and compels then to read.

4. Aesthetics/ banners/ covers/playlists used in the chapters

There weren't any uses of aesthetics or covers so the visual appeal was missing. Work on that as it's necessary to let the readers know how the characters look so that it is easier for them to connect with them and visualize them.

5. First impression ( made from the first few paragraphs, blurb, cover and title)

The first impression was very much positive. The title, cover and blurb altogether did an amazing job in attracting the readers and compelling them to read the story. But the initial paragraphs lacked that kind of hook which can put off many readers and force them to leave the story in between. You need to change the opening of the book, the current one is not working. I really appreciate you going straight into the story without talking nonsense but you need to set the pace and background of the story by giving a little background information about the characters, much more than them being a warrior. Also you should work upon the scenery description by using imagery to some extent in your story because it is a must in fantasy genre to produce images in a reader's mind. The plot would only shine if the narration is effective, so modify that.

6. First chapter

As I mentioned, the first chapter lacks the pace setting and background information. Being straightforward is good but along with that you need to be descriptive, so keep that in mind. You have jumped onto the history of the sword which is quite a risk to take but then also it worked well. Yet you need to explain the thoughts and emotions of the protagonist more vividly because the emotions are not getting surfaced. This leads to prevention of emotional connect of readers with the book. 

You need to modify the ending of the first chapter, it should be strong and worth flipping to the next chapter.

7. Characters development

There aren't much characters introduced yet as the story is still in the initial phase so it is understandable if character development isn't evident. Please include the physical appearance and personality of the characters by telling the readers about their preferences and likings. This could be done by using situations which tell more about the characters. Character development can't be commented upon because there is only chapter which has been published yet.

8. Plotline

The plotline is the best thing about the book as it is unique and intriguing. It makes the reader think and wonder which is certainly the ultimate aim of writing books of fantasy genre. But as much as I liked the plot, I have to say that the narration has to be done more effectively. So work on that. But I am sure that with little modifications your book will become better and worth reading!

9. Grammar

Author has a good command on grammar and it is remarkable. One or two instances show some minute errors but that can be edited out easily. So good job done in this segment. 

10. Word count of chapters/ number of chapters

The chapters are short ones, at least the first one, but it's fine. Long chapter bores the reader so smart choice! Try to keep the word count of each chapter between 2k and 3k. It would be fare enough. But don't drag the chapters, if chapter needs to be ended at 1500 words then end it no problem. As of now dragging is not a problem and chapters are quite going well.

11. Writing style and flow of the book

The writing style is good but the flow of the chapters needs to be worked upon. Start with suspense or monotonous daily life routine, keep the middle part smooth and end with a strong line or cliffhanger or something of significance. Try this and see if it works out. You have a good plot ready but then it needs better execution, so take your time and work it out. Because if execution of chapters become better the book would automatically become better. 

12. Interaction and socialization with readers

You need to start responding to the readers' comments, or they will not come back to read when you post the next chapter. So incorporate this because currently interaction from your side is not there. Same goes for socialization, try to write author's note to let readers know you better and also so that you can know them. This way they will spread the word about your story in their friend circle too. 

13. Hook/ overall enjoyment

The enjoyment is good enough as readers anticipate the new chapter. The hook is there.

14. Constructive criticism

The chapter opening has to be changed to something interesting - it is a must. Then your narration is not up to the mark. Try to edit it and be more descriptive. 

15. Suggestions

Add the author's name on the cover, enhance the first chapter, end chapters with a strong note. And most importantly, interact with your readers! They provide you the best feedbacks. 

*Queries  :

None.

Rating : 06/10 

You have an amazing plot line here, which just needs a better narration and dang! We will have the bestseller in here.