Manuscript Evaluations

Looking for unbiased feedback on your newly completed novel?

Look no further!

What is a manuscript evaluation?

A manuscript evaluation is where an author sends their completed novel to an editorial professional to receive in-depth feedback on their story. This is done as a reader report and as in-line comments on your manuscript.

The goal is to identify what is and isn’t working in your story and to find ways to improve the story while keeping your vision of it alive.

Manuscript evaluations are not not edits. None of your story will be changed by me at this stage.

What’s Included?

First, I’ll read your book from cover to cover and make notes on the story, characters, pacing, and any other aspects you’d like me to look at. Then I’ll write this up in a reader report, typically 10–20 pages long (based on a 100,000 word novel). This report will be broken into a few core sections:

  • The Story. This is the most raw form of notes, where I write up feedback as I read the book. This section will give you an understanding of how a reader will receive your story at its most crucial moments, giving you the insight needed to improve a reader’s experience.

  • Notes for future edits. This section covers the common mistakes/oddities I discover while reading your work. The focus of this section is on language and ways in which you can alter your prose to best tell your story.

  • In-line comments. These are comments made in your manuscript, highlighting the exact moments in question. These comments will focus on the aspects you would most like feedback on, as well as elements that may impede a reader’s experience.

I am happy to discuss additional elements to cover in my report prior to starting work.

How much does it cost?

My basic rate for manuscript critiques is £0.006 per word. On booking, a 20% non-refundable deposit is required.

Payment plans are available on request.

Please note that this is not the same as a developmental edit. If you would like a developmental editor, I’d be more than happy to refer you to a trusted editor who suits your needs and story.

If you are unsure where you are in the editorial process, check out my resources.

Testimonials

Get in touch!

Remember to include important information such as word count, deadline, and genre.

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FAQs

  • Many factors impact this; as such I am unable to give a definitive answer here, but a 100,000 word manuscript can typically take 2-3 weeks.

    No matter the project, we will agree on a deadline before any work begins and I am always happy to update you on my progress.

  • No. A manuscript critique is a more detailed read-through of the manuscript than a beta read, but it is not as detailed as a developmental edit.

    If you’re unsure which service you need, check out my resources.

  • I do, though my primary focus is on science-fiction and fantasy stories.

    If we find we aren’t a good fit for each other, I am more than happy to refer you to another great editor who will fit your genre or style better.

  • No, I do not use AI tools to edit or read manuscripts. All editing and reading is done solely by me.

  • Sometimes I will be, but your best bet is to get in touch a few weeks before you need my services. This will give us time to discuss your manuscript and book a slot so you can meet your deadline.

Qualifications

Essential Grammar (The Publishing Training Centre), January 2023: Self-assessed.

Essential Proofreading (The Publishing Training Centre), March 2023: Pass.

Copyediting 1 (Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders), February 2024: Pass.