What’s a Manuscript Evaluation?

Many of the new authors I work with are eager to publish their book, but aren’t sure where to start. The first step I often recommend is a manuscript evaluation. This high-level reading of a manuscript is helpful for several reasons.

It’s a Reality Check

So, no one has read your book. Is it awesome? Does it need…massaging? A manuscript evaluation is an inexpensive reality check from an editor who can give an objective opinion. For a nominal fee, I will read your manuscript and provide feedback on how to improve it. Then, if you decide to use me as your editor, I’ll deduct the cost of the evaluation from your in-depth copyedit.

It Uncovers Major Issues

A manuscript evaluation allows me to soak in all the details of a book without the distraction of hunting for grammatical errors. It also lets me see plot inconsistencies or issues with characters, setting, or anything else. During a manuscript evaluation I’ll take notes and ask questions so the author can see what a reader experiences when they read the manuscript.

It Saves Time

A manuscript evaluation is a time saver because a high-level review ensures the manuscript works before embarking on an edit. If I edit the first half of the book and then learn that the second half has major plot issues, all the edits in the first half could be irrelevant. Fixing major issues prior to an in-depth edit ultimately saves time for both the author and editor.

I Learn Your Style

While a sample edit allows an author to see how I would edit a book, a manuscript evaluation lets me learn an author’s style. Your voice is unique, and I always strive to preserve it through any changes that are needed. Reading your entire manuscript gives me an inside look at your direction, goals, and voice for your book.

Book Your Manuscript Evaluation Today

If you’ve got a manuscript that needs an objective set of eyes, send it my way! I’m happy to set up a meeting to hear about your inspiration and authorial aspirations, and then set your book on the first step toward publication.