MANUSCRIPT CRITIQUE

When you've been locked away writing, sometimes it's helpful to come up for air and get some input. Whether you're manuscript is finished or not, a manuscript critique can be a useful part of your writing process.

What it is

A high-level review of your written work with an eye toward continuity, clarity of style, fit to purpose, plot, characterization and marketability. We'll review your manuscript and send you a written analysis of strengths and weaknesses, along with recommendations for improvement.

What it isn't

Manuscript critiquing is not done in person. If you are looking for face-to-face interaction consider our Manuscript Coaching or our Book Boot Camp workshop. Manuscript critiquing is also not editing; your manuscript won't come back to you with pages marked for spelling, grammatical or other corrections. If this is what you're looking for, consider our Manuscript Editing or Manuscript Copyediting services.

What's the procedure?

First contact us by email or phone (724-444-6466) to discuss your project. Once we determine which one of us will read your work, you'll send your pages. You may choose to send the entire manuscript at once or send a portion and pay as you go. A minimum of 50 pages is required. Please note that a check for half of the fee must be received before work can begin. When we finish the critique we will mail it to you, along with your manuscript. If you have questions about the critique we'll be happy to discuss them over the phone or in person.

How much does it cost?

Manuscript critiques are $50 for 50 pages, with a $50 minimum. There is also a flat rate of $3 for return shipping. In addition, if you wish to email your manuscript rather than mailing, you'll be charged 10 cents per page to print an electronic file. For example, if you have a 100-page manuscript that you email to us, the cost will be $113 ($100 + $10 printing charge + $3 shipping to return manuscript & written critique). Or, if you wish to email only 50 pages to start, your fee would be $58 ($50 + $5 printing charge + $3 return shipping). Please note that half of the fee must be received before work can begin.

How do I pay?

A check for half the fee must be received before work can begin on your manuscript. You'll send the check directly to the Fat Plum professional who will be critiquing your work (address to be provided).

How do I submit my manuscript?

You can either send your manuscript by mail (mailing address will vary depending on who will be critiquing your work) or as a Word attachment in an email. Please note there is a charge of 10 cents per page for us to print out an electronic document.

Please make sure your pages are in standard format:

  • Double-spaced, single-sided, 8.5" x 11" sheets
  • Courier/Courier New font, 12-point size
  • 1.25" margins
  • Numbered pages

Who does the critique?

Your manuscript will be critiqued by Judith Burnett Schneider, Cynthia Closkey, or Julie Long. It will depend on your preference, our availability and who we think would be the best match for your writing genre.

How long will it take?

This depends on the length of your manuscript and our current workload. We'll provide a time estimate before services are rendered.

How can I learn more?

Call us at 724-444-6466 or contact us. We'll be happy to discuss your project, answer any questions and help you determine if a manuscript critique is the right service for you.