A few too many cryptic definitions (I think) for my taste, at 1A, 8A, 13A, and 1D, possibly a few more I didn't parse (like 6A and 12D). That's not a criticism, just an observation of where I struggled, especially since a few clues had double unchecked letters.
I liked the idea of 15A, although I'm not sure [hot start] means [prefix for heat]; it was playful enough (and clear enough) that I bought it. And I wonder if 2D is a homophone of "source," but not the way I'd say it. And finally, I'm a bit confused by 5D; wouldn't a submarine be one more suited to the water?
Loved 16A, 3D, 14D, and 15D; it was just an overall toughie for me.
Thank you Aaron - I really appreciate your detailed feedback.
I agree, perhaps the balance of clues was a little off - certainly 1A is a challenge. 5D I don't think I made clear enough, the definition was meant to be the latter half, I was being vague in referring to the SUB as the people carrier that needs turning, but having looked back, it isn't that clear which way the definition is supposed to work. Regarding 2D, I hadn't considered the homophone in different accents - for me (a Brit), they sound close enough to be valid, but appreciate for others this may not be the case.
6A is 3 examples of types of nouns, though I appreciate it is a bit out there and perhaps the answer would be better as a plural.
Thanks again for the feedback! I have a few other puzzles on here if you'd like to try any. I'm still very new to setting, so any advice is always greatly appreciated.
Yeah, I'm trying to solve and give feedback on as many cryptics as possible here, so if I get through the backlog to tackle more of yours (or any upcoming ones) I surely will :)