If you want a road map to the publishing finish line. A structural edit should be your first stop.
Although friends, family, and beta readers offer crucial support, you should not underestimate the importance of a good structural edit with a professional editor.
This particular edit is a strong, in-depth analysis of your storyline and story structure. Exposing areas where you excelled and also where you missed the mark for your genre.
It will make sure your story has a strong backbone, an even breath, and a steady heartbeat, with consistency throughout from beginning to end.
Regardless of whether you publish with an agent or on your own, this edit will attract the attention of the people you are looking for.