This chapter does a fantastic job of establishing atmosphere and tension right from the start. The setting feels alive, with the ever-changing Crackern and the eerie, unnatural storm. The lighthouse itself is a perfect anchor for mystery and isolation, and Elias’s role as the keeper gives the reader an immediate sense of responsibility and urgency. The pacing is smooth, and the introduction of Anna adds a compelling new layer to the tension.

What Works Well:
Strong Atmosphere & Setting: The descriptions of the storm are vivid and unique, making it feel like a character in its own right. Lines like “Clouds of fog wandered above the waves, traveling wherever they pleased without even bothering to follow the wind” give the storm an eerie, almost sentient quality.
Compelling Protagonist: Elias’s practical, duty-driven nature makes him easy to root for. His internal conflict—whether to prioritize the lantern or investigate Anna’s claims—adds depth to his character.
Intriguing Mystery: The sudden appearance of Anna and her claim of a shipwreck, despite no visible signs of a wreck, immediately raises questions. This is a great way to hook the reader for what comes next.
Actionable Feedback:
Clarify the Storm’s Supernatural Nature: Right now, the storm is described as strange, but it’s not entirely clear if Elias sees it as supernatural or just unusual. A bit more internal reaction from him—perhaps recalling whether he’s ever seen anything remotely like it before—could help ground the reader’s understanding.
Example: Instead of “Because that storm was the strangest thing he’d yet laid eyes on,” you could add a personal comparison: “In thirteen years, he had seen hurricanes carve new cliffs into the Crackern, but he had never seen anything like this.”
Deepen Elias’s Reaction to Anna: Elias seems oddly quick to accept Anna’s presence without much emotional response. A little more hesitation, suspicion, or even concern (since a storm like this could easily claim lives) would add realism and tension.
Example: Instead of “He doubted that,” you could expand with a thought: “He doubted that. The sea was cruel, but it was predictable—wrecks left debris, bodies, cries for help. He had seen none of those.”
Increase Sensory Detail in Action Scenes: When the door blows open and Anna stumbles in, the moment could feel more immediate with stronger sensory details—perhaps the feel of the wind’s force, the sound of the door slamming against the wall, or the rush of cold, wet air.
Example: Instead of “a sudden blast of wind pushed the door inward, throwing it wide open,” something like: “The wind struck the door like a battering ram, flinging it open so violently that the hinges groaned. Cold rain lashed inside, soaking the floor in seconds.”
Overall, this is a strong, engaging opening chapter with great atmosphere and intrigue. Strengthening Elias’s reactions and sharpening some of the sensory details would make it even more immersive. Looking forward to seeing where the story goes next!