Date: June 27 2020 5:49 PM Title: Chapter Two
I was hesitant whether to leave a review or not; ultimately I decided to go for it, though it is not an easy one to write. My previous experiences with your stories were really good and where writing craftsmanship is considered, Beyond the Sea meets all my hopes and expectations. Two issues, however, need to be mentioned.
1. The use of existing character in the story - it is more a matter of personal preference rather than a real problem. I am not a fan of fanfictions of any kind, as only through a completely original work is the Author's potential fully realized. The worldbuilding, character design and development, all play crucial roles in creating a most immersive reading experience. Here, the fanfic issue is really just a minor nuissance; the original and quite intriguing plot makes up for it with interest.
2. The paywall issue - the elephant in the room and a source of my discomfort while writing the review. First I have to state that I have no problem with publishing stories on Patreon first, granting paying readers early access and other benefits. Thus I think io1908 was wrong and their critique - unjustified (that being said, your response was not exactly classy itself).
My problem lies elswhere and had not existed before the second chapter was posted. I assume that whenever an Author publishes their work in the media in any form, they are intent on completing it in the same form (otherwise, why bother doing in the chosen way?). Your statement effectively prevents this story from ever being completed in one of the chosen forms, making the first two chapters an empty promise unless the readers are willing to pay. So, viewed from a perspective of Giantessworld reader, the story is not actually a story but a teaser, a bait. That I find unacceptable and cannot support. I request you inform potential future readers about the status of the story at the beginning of the read, not to raise their hopes in futility.
Best regards,
C