Critiques
Sometimes we just want to know that we’re on the right track before committing to a full edit. A critique is the perfect solution! Click on a question below for more information about critiques.
What is a critique?
A manuscript critique is a reading of the full manuscript from beginning to end by an editor. The editor identifies the strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript, checks certain criteria based on the genre, and prepares a detailed written report giving suggestions and guidelines for improvement.
A first five critique is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a reading of just the first five pages of the manuscript. The editor will give feedback on first impressions, strength of the opening and the hook, grammar, and more.
A first chapter critique is similar to the first five critique except it includes the entire first chapter.
What do I receive if I request a critique?
Every critique comes with an editorial letter. The letter is broken down into sections, and each section covers the strengths and weaknesses in that area and ways to improve the manuscript. The sections for full manuscript critiques are:
- Overall Impression
- Analysis
- Areas to Improve
- Areas of Excellence
- Action Plan
- Recommendations
At the end of every letter is a link to schedule a follow-up phone conversation within 2 weeks. This is your opportunity to ask any questions about the information in the critique and to get clarification on anything that doesn’t make sense. These conversations generally last about an hour.
First 5 and First Chapter critiques focus on the first 4,000 words or less so they will not receive a lengthy editorial letter. The focus is on if they reader is hooked and ways to improve.
How long does a critique take?
I typically ask for two weeks, depending on the length of the manuscript. For some manuscripts, I finish in a week and others I request 3 weeks. But the average manuscript takes about 2 weeks.
During the first week, I read the manuscript and take notes as I read. Then I wait a few days before writing the editorial letter. Waiting allows me time to think about the manuscript and draw attention to the pieces that are still dominating my thoughts at the end of the week. Those pieces, whether good or bad, need acknowledged in the letter.
Do you offer budget-friendly options for critiques?
Yes! I offer an Overview Critique and a Comprehensive Critique. The main difference is the Comprehensive goes more in-depth with a lot more detail. The editorial report for an Overview Critique averages between 3 to 5 pages. For the Comprehensive Critique, the report is anywhere from 10 pages to over 25 pages.
Pricing for an Overview Critique starts at $300 for 50,000 words or less. The Comprehensive Critique starts at $750 for 50,000 words or less. The cost increases to $950 for 50,000 to 75,000 words.
First 5 and First Chapter critiques are also budget-friendly but do not include the whole manuscript.
What are your qualifications for critiquing my manuscript?
- I have longevity in the industry. I’ve been editing and helping authors realize their dreams for over 20 years.
- I’m a judge in multiple writing contests every year. I see a variety of writing styles and storytelling. Some are good; some are bad.
- I work as a developmental editor which means I have an eye for knowing what does and doesn’t work in a manuscript.
- I understand the genre tropes as well as reader expectations.
- I’m a former secondary English teacher and tutor.
Is a critique the same thing as a manuscript assessment?
Yes! Like many things connected to editing, the publishing industry does not have set terminology. A manuscript critique, assessment, evaluation, and report are all the same thing.
What genres do you critique?
My specialties are memoirs, biographies, creative non-fiction, self-help, inspirational, how-to, and fiction. For fiction, my preferences are contemporary romance / chick lit and historical from the Civil War period onward. I also work with middle grade fiction, and I will consider biblical fiction. I prefer “clean” books with no erotica or excessive gore.
Questions are the root of all answers.
Don’t Be Shy!