The first step in our editorial process for novels is mainly diagnostic in nature. We read the manuscript and prepare a detailed written report that explores what works, what doesn’t, what challenges need to be addressed, and ultimately what can be done to give the work the best chance of success in the marketplace. The Manuscript Evaluation also provides a candid assessment of a work’s chances at traditional publication. Some projects need just this initial feedback.

Manuscript Evaluations are always written and include up to a half-hour of phone follow-up with the reviewing editor at no additional charge. For writers interested in testing the waters by having a ten-page sample reviewed for a nominal fee, we offer a $35 critique.

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Some writers prefer informal back-and-forth with their editor or want feedback that falls outside the boundaries of our other services. Our manuscript consultation service is billed by the hour and essentially allows writers to have access to as much of an editor’s time and expertise as they need and to get their feedback any way they like. (Typically by phone, e-mail, notes throughout the manuscript, and follow-up with any combination of the above.) Like Manuscript Evaluation, Consultation addresses characterization, plot, and writing style, offering specific suggestions to make the story as seductive to the reader as possible.

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Our manuscript annotation service puts highly specific notes from our editors in the body of electronic manuscript text. The intent of manuscript annotation is to push the author of a good book into taking it over the finish line.

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Many manuscripts we review show impressive potential but need further development in a given area before they’re ready for the ‘blue-pencil’ type of editing that’s often the last step in preparing a manuscript for the marketplace. We offer a wide range of in-depth tutorials and highly specific craft lessons on topics such as characterization, dialogue, plotting, and writing mechanics. Unlike books and traditional courses on such topics, these memos don’t generalize. They’re based on the content of the manuscript.

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Finally there’s the hands-on polishing, correction, and general stylistic attention most writers think of as “editing.” We offer three levels of service when it comes to classic ”blue pencil” editing, ordinarily using Microsoft Word's Track Changes function. Line or copy editing should always be the very last stage in the editorial process, at the conclusion of any content or developmental editing we do for the story.

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Not finding exactly what you had in mind in our menu of services? 

We can set you up with a Custom Editorial Package (CEP) to fit your needs and your budget.  Just tell us what you think you need, what your budget is, and what you’re hoping to receive as a final product, and we’ll figure out what we can do within those parameters. 

For more information, please contact Managing Editor Ross Browne.