Cryptic crossword No 616

Thanks for a fun puzzle jugular, which I enjoyed very much. I found there were plenty of neat, inviting clues that got me started and then quite a few that required more thought, which added up to a satisfying workout and I learnt a few things along the way. Thank you. My favourites were 7a 29a and 1d. I loved 11a and 23a. Cheers. Spoilers…

I saw your name and went for it! 😆 (actually that works on two levels as I have been awaiting your debut since you revealed your pseudonym on 225) and it didn’t disappoint. I really liked 17a, 21a, 3d and 19d. 9d is new to me but gettable with crossers and a dictionary (the grid was very good for consecutive crossers!), as was 2d. An enjoyable puzzle, not too taxing but with a few chewy ones towards the end. Nice work! A few extra comments in the Reply!

Well done, jugular. There are quite a few rough edges here, but not bad for a first attempt. 30a and 1d are both very neat. Spoilers in reply…

Welcome to MyC and thanks for the puzzle jugular! Lots of lovely ideas in here and widdersbel has given more articulate advice than I could that'll help you hone your process and tighten things up. I particularly liked 7d, 23d (cunning), 26a (fun), 29a (clever), 30a (neat), 1d (neat too) and18d (nice strategy for a difficult word) - well done.

That's a good debut puzzle jugular. As widdersbel says, some rough edges but you've also got some very nice touches and creative thinking littered throughout. I had plenty of ticks including: 7a, 11a, 14a, 29a, 2d (favourite) and 19d. A couple of comments with spoilers in Reply. Thanks. PM

Thanks jugular. I enjoyed this and echo the comments about the level of ingenuity on display. I’m slightly late to the party so will only reinforce all of the excellent advice that’s already been given by others, particularly the bit about seeing this as a safe space for trying out your puzzles and getting feedback. My favourites were 15A, 17A, 23A, 29A, 18D and 19D.

Hi jugular, I enjoyed that! I didn't get 9d, even with the clusters of crossing letters! Not a word I knew, though now maybe one I won't forget. I really liked 21a (nice misdirection), 13d, 12a and 19a (lovely surface). Are you working on a sequel?