Manuscript Critiques for Fiction Authors
Writers who want big-picture feedback without in-line edits.
What’s Included
This editorial package is designed for authors seeking big-picture, honest, and encouraging feedback on their manuscript. Whether you’re revising a first draft or polishing before querying or self-publishing, you’ll receive a detailed critique that pinpoints what’s working—and what still needs refinement.
I’ll focus on the heart of your story looking at plot and pacing; character development; worldbuilding and setting; voice and tone; and conflict and stakes.
- Full read of your manuscript
- Short editorial letter
- 30-minute call (Zoom or audio) to discuss your story
Pricing
$0.0015/word
- i.e. 100,000 words equals $1,500
Best For
- Early drafts
- Writers who want direction
- Authors overwhelmed by revision
How It Helps
- Clear revision priorities
- Craft-focused roadmap
- Structural clarity
Turnaround Time
Standard turnaround for a manuscript critique is 3–4 weeks.
Express Option
On a deadline? Express Critiques are available in limited spots.
- Turnaround: 10 days
- Rush fee: +$400
- Subject to availa
Meta description
Professional manuscript critiques offering big-picture feedback and revision strategy for fiction authors.
Manuscript Critique FAQ
What is a manuscript critique?
A manuscript critique (also called a manuscript evaluation) provides detailed, big-picture feedback on your story’s structure, pacing, character arcs, stakes, and overall cohesion—without in-line editing throughout the manuscript.
How is a manuscript critique different than a developmental edit?
A manuscript critique delivers a comprehensive editorial letter outlining strengths, patterns, and clear revision direction. A developmental edit includes in-line comments and deeper scene-level feedback in addition to the letter.
What will I receive?
You’ll receive a detailed editorial letter (typically 8–12+ pages, depending on length) that covers:
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Narrative structure and plot cohesion
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Character motivation and arc development
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Worldbuilding clarity and integration
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Pacing and tension
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Stakes and emotional impact
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Revision priorities and next steps
My feedback is specific and actionable, with examples to guide your revision.
Do you mark up the manuscript?
No. A manuscript critique focuses on the editorial letter rather than in-line comments. If you’d prefer margin notes and scene-by-scene feedback, a developmental edit may be a better fit.
When is a manuscript critique the right choice?
A manuscript critique is ideal if:
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You’ve completed a draft and want professional guidance before deep revision
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You need direction but not line-level intervention
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You want clarity on your story’s strengths and weaknesses
Can you help if a manuscript is too long?
Yes. A manuscript critique is an excellent starting point for identifying where cuts, consolidation, or restructuring could strengthen pacing and reduce word count.
Do you provide genre-specific feedback?
Absolutely. I specialize in adult and YA romance, fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal, and I tailor feedback to genre expectations and market positioning.
How long does a manuscript critique usually take?
Turnaround is typically 3–5 weeks, depending on manuscript length and scheduling.
Can we speak after the critique?
Yes. I’m happy to add a follow-up conversation to clarify feedback and discuss your revision plan.
Can I add a developmental edit after?
Yes. Many authors start with a manuscript critique and then move into a developmental edit once revisions are underway.
Combine Services
Combine two or more services to give your manuscript the attention it deserves. And there’s a discount when you bundle services.
Popular Bundles
Developmental Edit + Line Edit
→ Big-picture + sentence-level polish
Two-pass Developmental Edit
→ One structural pass +second refinement pass
Plot Analysis → Dev Edit
→ Fix structure first + deep craft
How bundling works
- Discounted add-on services
- Custom timeline
- Tailored scope