Wow. You've got the knack.

We'll get the one criticism out of the way first before I thoroughly slob your knob (regrettably with 100% less log). The second paragraph needed some editing. I just really struggled to wrap my head around it. I got what you wanted to say, it just took a bit.

But beyond that, yeah...wow. This was really goddamn good. Like, best thing I've read here good. You're not Universal champion yet because....why? You just nailed that small town feel so hard, I'd bet smart money you grew up in one and if you didn't it's all the more impressive. You even dunked on shitty airport fiction which earns some points for me. Truly inspired writing, and so grounded to boot. It felt like the natural musings of a young small town girl. If this is a change in style for you I recommend running with it.

As for the promo work, it was also very accomplished. Crisp, confident, and biting. I'm a sucker for overarching themes too, so again, bonus points from me.

All in all, very nearly flawless work and some of the best I've read. Well done.