A manuscript evaluation is a cost-effective option for writers who have finished a draft of their manuscript but don’t know how to tackle their next round of revisions. In an editorial letter of up to 6 pages (around 2,000 words), I identify your manuscript’s greatest strengths and weaknesses, comment on developmental and stylistic issues, and provide clear recommendations to help you find a revision strategy that works for you. 

What does a manuscript evaluation cover?

In broad terms, a manuscript evaluation advises on issues of plot, pacing, narrative style, voice, perspective, and characterization. It may also cover structural and stylistic issues specific to your book or genre, such as timeline, worldbuilding, and age-appropriateness (for Children’s, Middle Grade, or YA projects). An evaluation can flag plot holes, inconsistencies, POV issues, and unclear or confusing concepts.

Is your book ready for a manuscript evaluation?

A manuscript evaluation is a good place for writers to begin their journey with professional editing. It provides a clear overview of where a manuscript’s structure and style need improvement at a reasonable cost. That said, a Manuscript Evaluation is still a professional service, priced at professional rates. For writers with a limited budget, I recommend exhausting resources like beta readers and critique groups before investing in a full manuscript evaluation. 

If you are new to writing or suspect that your manuscript has some major developmental or stylistic issues, a reader report, an evaluation of your book’s first 10,000 to 15,000 words, may be more appropriate.

How much does it cost?

My evaluations are currently priced at $25 CAD per 1,000 words. That means a standard manuscript of 60,000 words costs $1,500. Shorter works—like stories, essays, and picture books—have a minimum fee of $150.

If you are interested in working with me, please complete an estimate request and email the first 3 chapters of your book to senicamaltese@gmail.com. If you are inquiring about a picture book, short story, novella, or essay, please send the entire manuscript. To avoid confusion, I ask that you supply your sample within 72 hours of completing your estimate request.