You wrote the story,
but what does it need to be even better?
A manuscript critique delivers professional feedback from a critical reader’s perspective to help you make your story better.
Manuscript Critique Is More Than an Opinion
People think a manuscript critique is ...
- A general reader's opinion
- A vague statement of "I liked/didn't like it."
- Editing
What a manuscript critique actually is ...
- A happy medium between beta reading and a full developmental edit
- A professional editor's critical feedback as an reader
- A detailed overview of story issues and suggestions on how to fix them
Who Needs a Manuscript Critique?
Not every manuscript needs full developmental editing, but many benefit from a service more intensive than beta reading by an amateur. If you want a critical opinion from a professional and the cost of a full develompental edit is prohibitive, then a manuscript critique offers a valuable compromise.
- This is for you if you want professional feedback on your story.
- This is for you if you're looking for suggestion on how to fix what's wrong in your story.
- This is for you if a full developmental edit is too expensive for your budget.
How Does a Manuscript Critique Help Me?
You’ll receive an editorial letter in two parts: the first part contains my overall observations of your story, mentions what works for me and what doesn’t and why, and notes any consistently recurring issues for remediation. The second part is a list of specific issues to be addressed.
- It helps you understand what works and what doesn't—and why.
- It helps you figure out how to fix those issues.
- It helps you become aware of what you need to work on in your writing.
What Does a Manuscript Critique Cost?
The cost of a manuscript critique depends on the manuscript’s word count. I do not mark on the manuscript itself; your deliverable is an editorial letter.
- The cost of a manuscript critique aligns with EFA recommendations: $0.01 per word.
Testimonials
J. Brad Peebles, Author
Good review. You caught many things that my alpha readers missed and I could not see.
Carmen Ayala Brown, Founder/Author Sir Blake Here, LLC
Hen House Publishing provided an outstanding book typesetting and design service per my specifications. Karen’s work met industry standards. She provided the final draft on time and went above and beyond to meet my requirements. There was always open communication and responsiveness during our collaboration. Her willingness to make changes repeatedly was exemplary. I highly recommend Hen House Publishing for
Morgan Scafe
If I could drive to where you are, hug you, and drive back, I would. The paperback loaded like butter!!! HUGS!!!!
Ellen Corcella, JD, MTS, MDiv
I was delighted with the copyediting and proofreading services of Hen House Publishing. Karen M. Smith is professional and meticulous and improved my manuscript through her edits and suggestions. I highly recommend Hen House Publishing for your editing needs.
Frederick G. Yeager, Author
I would not have been able to self-publish my book without the support and assistance of Hen House Publishing. The owner, Karen, was very knowledgeable and expertly assisted me in moving through the process for Kindle Direct Publishing. Karen was very professional and responded quickly to my questions and issues. Without hesitation, I recommend Hen House Publishing if you are considering self-publishing.
Tom Hock, Artist & Author
When I started writing my stories, I didn’t have a lot of confidence. People enjoyed my stories, but my English skills are not the best. A lot of people gave me encouragement and I self-published my first book. While starting my second novel, Iron Embrace, I met Karen who owns Hen House Publishing and learned she had helped edit, ghostwrite,
Want to Work with Me?
If you want professional feedback from a critical reader’s perspective to help you make your story better, let’s talk.