@nprofile1q... @nprofile1q... i'd join a writers group and offer to edit other people's first chapters as a quid pro quo. i wouldn't rely on your family to edit your work if you want to get published.
regarding the original fess, it seems completely implausible considering there are so many ways for a published author to find their tribe, mailing lists, blogs, podcasts, conventions, readings, book shop events, fundraisers, signings. it seems unlikely an author would get a deal if they aren't doing at least some of this. and why isn't the publisher helping?