It did land in my in tray today, and you were right Richie. I was so pleased and just as jealous as you. It's a great read, I am not a fan of victim lit, but this is different; as other reviewers have said, it's not just the quality of the writing, but the spirit of the author that takes you by the scruff of the neck, and pulls you through the harrowing narrative. I think it will be number one, and more.

Firstly, thank you so much for recommending Cold Kiss, Ritchie.

My primary reason for uploading my work here is to get feedback, but of course I wouldn't mind reaching the Top Ten and receiving a professional critique!

I hope to have polished enough of the second chapter to fulfil the minimum word count very soon.

Thanks to both of you for your encouragement.

Hey Zemer, don't worry--I'm fine with different diminutives of my name.

I think your writing deserves to be in the top ten so get cracking on that second chapter!

Good luck!

I've just this moment checked my email and received a message from Zemer. I'd mentioned that Cold Kiss seemed to have vanished.

She responded that she's recently had some interest from literary agents so she's taken the extract off. She also accidently cancelled her membership!

In any case, she specifically wanted to thank you Elisabeth, for the excellent review you gave and the constructive criticism which she has already used to improve her manuscript. She also says a big thank you to everyone who reviewed.

Fingers crossed that she'll be able to come back soon with good news!

This is great news! Once she has representation I can't imagine a publisher will be hard to find. Cold Kiss has the potential to be right up there with The Kite Runner.

Zemer, if you are reading this, I'm so excited for you! Do keep in touch.