I'm about 85,000 words into a new novel, which I think will top out around 100-120,000 words. I gave my editor, Geoff, the pick of three 30-40,000 word stories he thought I should expand upon about seven years ago, and he chose one entitled "A Turn of the Cards" as being the most promising.

Anyway, here's the thing. The thing, as David Mamet might say. I now have this enormous pile of stuff. I'm working on a bunch of sub-plots, which will actually make sense eventually. But I'm conscious of a central problem, which is that the protagonist, being more than somewhat semi-autobiographical, is not especially likeable. So I'm looking for a volunteer - a brutal volunteer - who might agree to critique the first three or four chapters for me, for more than grammar. For character, and the ability to hold attention, and actually give a shit about the protagonist - at least up to the 'gateway' point at which the protagonist is committed. Geoff is gorgeous, and I owe 90% of "Wild Horses" to him, but he is far too forgiving of my flaws (although he is excellent as an editor for character arc and drama and I will continue to rely on him - as ever - as the arbiter for the overall story). I've already sent him the entire manuscript, such as it is, but I'm looking to him for story arc more than absolution, if that makes any sense.

So what I'm seeking is someone insane enough to volunteer for the thankless task of editing - ruthlessly - the first three or four chapters, in the knowledge that you won't get to see the remaining eight or nine (there is a clearly defined and mostly written set, so it's never going to be more than that), at least not until much later in the writing process (at the rate I write, at least 6-9 months_. I would give these four chapters to Geoff but he's already read them and now I need someone who will be bitchier and more honest.

The other two stories that Geoff didn't like, "99 Red Balloons" and "Cassandra", will take another decade or so. Don't even ask.

So. "A Turn of the Cards"? Rip it to shreds. If you're up for it, and you understand what I'm blathering about here, I'd value your metaphorical red pencil. It's nowhere near ready, and I know that. That's why I'm asking.