I have proofread papers for a number of years, but prefer to beta stories. My feedback is generally extensive, and I aim to provide comprehensive, beneficial critique. I will tell you what I liked, what I didn't, what seems original, what's cliche, what's well-done, and what you need to work on - and I frequently am blunt about it, although I am capable of introducing critique softly if you are willing to hear it. When it comes to speed, I try to be quick, but sometimes get sucked into work/caring for my parrot/working on my own stories. However, I promise to tell you if any of the afore-mentioned happen, and to get back to yours as soon as I can.

On your part, you need to be able to hear critique, answer it, and change your story or characters if necessary. You also need to run your documents through a spell-checker before sending them to me. I fully expect to dialogue extensively with you via IM if at all possible, and email if not; if you don't want that, leave now.

I have been proofreading papers for spelling, grammar, and punctuation at a Master's level since I was fifteen. I know enough science and use enough logic to tear apart shaky plots and then help you put them back together. I am fluent in Greek and Egyptian mythology, and passable in Norse, Sumerian, Indian, and some Native American mythologies. I have been reading fantasy and science fiction for a long, long time, and can tell you exactly when you have crossed the line from original to cliche. The intricacy of world-building is one of my primary strengths, and I tend to watch characters very carefully to make sure that they aren't internally inconsistent or cliche.

I am very blunt. If I think your characters, plot, or settings are cliche or internally unrealistic, I will tell you so, and if you don't either work to make them better or explain why they are the way they are I will probably ask that you find another reader. I am not interested in perfecting S/G/P for stories that are lackluster and overdone. I occasionally have sudden deadlines, due to an erratic work schedule, that may stretch out the time before I get a story or chapter back to you. If it looks like you're going to drop a story I was interested in, I become a nag.

I am highly interested in fantasy, science fiction, and stories that may contain elements of the above without falling into either category. I also enjoy stories in the nature, supernatural, and spiritual categories. I enjoy poetry.

I prefer not to beta most romance. If you convince me that it's worth my time, I'm open to it, but don't expect me to agree off the drop of a hat. Stories that exist strictly in this time and space and culture tend to bore me, and I'm not a fan of most mystery stories. If the protagonists of your story are teens, expect to do a bit of convincing.

All Fiction

All Poetry

General Drama Poetry

Horror Supernatural Suspense

Sci-Fi Fantasy Spiritual

Tragedy Hurt/Comfort Friendship