If you’ve finished your book and taken your own editing as far as you can, but you’re still not sure how it’s hanging together and would like professional feedback, a manuscript evaluation could be what you’re looking for.
Also known as a manuscript assessment, critique or appraisal, a manuscript evaluation is a high-level analysis which provides editorial feedback on which bits are working well and which could benefit from improvement. I won’t make changes to your text or look at any specific parts in detail – the aim is to give you insights and suggestions which you can then use to make your own revisions. If you’re looking for more comprehensive and detailed analysis, including step-by-step look at the text itself, then you may want to consider a developmental edit.
I offer manuscript evaluations and mini manuscript evaluations. They both look at elements such as:
- theme
- plot
- narrative arc
- setting
- point of view
- characterisation
- dialogue
- writing style
Manuscript Evaluations
I will read your entire manuscript and provide an editorial report. The level of detail will depend upon the length of the manuscript and what needs to be said about it, but you can expect a report of at least 2,000 words. I will usually make reference to particular passages or scenes and, if appropriate, I will include suggestions for further research and/or reading.
I also offer a follow-up video call, or an email exchange if you prefer, during which you can ask for clarification on any points made or ask further questions.
I am so glad I discovered Jane Spencer Editorial! Jane recently undertook a manuscript evaluation of my first novel. Her detailed report and follow-up video call were invaluable. Jane’s advice is clear and constructive, with plenty of examples and links to articles and books for further help. Her assessment covered everything from plot and structure to characterisation, dialogue, setting, writing technique and more. Jane pinpointed exactly which areas of my book require attention, so I have a step-by-step action plan of what to do next. When I have rewritten and edited, I will definitely ask Jane for a final evaluation before submitting it to an agent. I highly recommend Jane Spencer Editorial to any writer.
Clare S, March 2024
What you’ll receive
You will receive:
- a written report, covering the elements mention above
- if relevant, sections of your manuscript highlighted and/or comments made in track changes which illustrate the elements commented on in the report
- suggestions of ways to work on those elements which could benefit from improvement
- links and/or book suggestions for further research
- the offer of a one-hour video call with me to discuss the report, if there are areas which you would like clarifying. Alternatively, I’m happy to take your queries via an email (just one, but as long as you need!). I’m happy to give further editorial support, but I will need to charge for this at an hourly rate.
Cost and timescale
The cost is £300 for a manuscript of up to 60,000 words.
For books of 60,00 to 100,000 words, the cost is £300 for the first 60,000 words, then an additional £5 for each additional 1,000 words (or part thereof).
For books of over 100,000 words, please contact me for a price.
A non-refundable deposit is payable on booking to secure your slot. For longer books, I offer payment in instalments.
The time a manuscript evaluation takes depends on the length of your book and how full my schedule is, but I’ll always aim to fit it in as soon as I can.
Mini Manuscript Evaluations
If you’re not looking for a full evaluation but would still like professional feedback on your completed book, I also offer a mini manuscript evaluation. You’ll receive a shorter report covering the main areas detailed above, with suggestions for further research and next steps. It does not include manuscript highlights or comments or a follow-up call/email. Think of it as similar to an alpha read, but from a professional editorial point of view (rather than from a reader’s point of view).
This service can be useful if you’re not sure whether your manuscript is ready for editing or where to go next!
The cost starts at £150 and will depend on the length of your book. Please contact me to enquire.
To enquire
Send me an email! Please include the name of your book, the genre and the wordcount. Please also tell me what your plans are (such as seeking a traditional publishing deal or self-publishing) and whether your manuscript has been through any previous rounds of beta reading or professional editing, plus any other details you feel might be important.
I’ll get back to you and we can take it from there!