A Practically Perfect First Page

Our first ever look at a reader page is shockingly good...

I was OVERWHELMED by the number of responses to my new substack. You guys are incredible, and I can’t wait to dig into your work.

Without further adieu…let’s get into our inaugural first page! A few housekeeping things before we begin:

• I will err on the side of keeping these anonymous unless you explicitly give me your permission to use your name.

• These writers are being incredibly brave by sharing their work. Negative comments will be deleted immediately.

• A standard first page is Times New Roman, 12 pt font, double spaced. Most first pages come out to around 250-350 words. If you send me more, please understand that I can only look at the first 250-350 words!

• You’ll find the authors page, verbatim, below. You’ll know when I’ve interjected with a comment because I will do so in italics, and include “DV” first.

• Send me your work! I will prioritize messages sent through substack (just because it’s easier for me!) but I’ll try to check my inbox on TikTok and at danielle@daniellvalentinebooks.com as well.

And that’s it! Ready? Let’s get to work.

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I'm in the final moments of my life. I'm certain of it.

DV: This is a great first line! Really makes me want to read what comes next. But then I get to the next sentence, and she’s not actually in the final moments of her life