Full Manuscript Critique
What is a Manuscript Critique/ Manuscript Evaluation?
You can think of a manuscript critique (also called a manuscript evaluation) as an alpha read.
It is a big-picture level of editing. It does not analyze grammar, punctuation, or word usage. Instead it looks at aspects of the story including (but not limited to) voice, pacing, word choice, character development, point of view, scene vs. summary, etc.
What’s the difference between a Developmental Edit and a Manuscript Critique?
While a manuscript critique is similar to a developmental edit, it is not nearly as exhaustive. A developmental edit addresses every single big-picture trouble spot in the manuscript. A manuscript critique points out patterns of what is working well and what kinds of things need to be addressed.
For example, if there is confusion regarding the timeline of a story, a developmental edit will analyze the time frame in detail, but a manuscript critique will merely point out the overarching problem of the timeline.
Or maybe there’s a significant lack of interiority for the protagonist. A developmental edit will point out every single spot in the manuscript where this should be addressed, but a manuscript critique will simply identify the problem with limited suggestions on how to correct it.
Who should get a Manuscript Critique?
Writers who have written (or mostly written) their first (or second) draft of a novel and want to know if their book is working would benefit most from this service. If you want to know if your premise makes sense, how the characters come across, and where the big issues are before starting revisions, a manuscript critique is a perfect next step for you.
This service might be right for you if:
You have a complete (or mostly complete) manuscript
You are looking for guidance on how to strengthen the writing
You are open to suggestions for structural or content changes that could lead to major revisions
Scroll down to see my rates.
Alyson—MG Sci-fi/Fantasy Author
“Tiffiny's perspective brought a fresh look at my work, and in many instances, helped me strengthen it. She is a skilled collaborator, was willing to hear my concerns, consider the idiosyncrasies of my story world, explain when she thought it worked and when it didn't, and why. Her suggestions were clear and provided a map that continues to help me navigate the entire series.”
Renata—Picture Book Writer
“Tiffiny’s feedback on my picture book manuscript gave me renewed hope for my manuscript. I learned so much about what I could do to strengthen my story and make it more appealing to my target audience.”
What’s included:
A complete read of the manuscript to analyze literary features such as plot, character arc, point of view, etc.
In-line comments sprinkled in strategic places of the manuscript to point out examples of areas that could be strengthened.
A multi-page editorial letter summarizing the literary analysis with suggestions for revisions.
Follow-up communication to discuss suggestions via email
What’s NOT included:
copyediting
proofreading
book map
Your investment:
-
under 50,000 words = $400
between 50,000-80,000 words = $550
over 80,000 words = $800
What if I can’t decide between getting a developmental edit or a manuscript critique?
Do both. Clients who book a manuscript critique save 20% when they return for a full developmental edit.
Ready to get started?
Fill out my contact form, and let’s take your story to the next level.