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 ...

What a manuscript critique actually is ...

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.

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.

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.

Testimonials

Tom Goodman, Pastor

I'm happy to recommend Karen for your editing needs. I enlisted her to conduct a line edit on a 77K-word novel and, though I sent her a very "clean" manuscript, I was grateful she caught several punctuation errors, suggested alternatives for my frequent em-dashes, and pointed out a few inconsistencies that I eould have regretted having in the published book.

Richard Moldovanyi, Website Copywriter

Karen is an excellent editor and proofreader. She is incredibly conscientious and has very strong attention to detail. Her work is always expertly performed and she cares deeply about the written word. It's obvious how knowledgeable she is as soon as you start working with her. She's also dependable, professional, and truly a pleasure to work with. She provides smart,

Michelle St. Hillaire, Creative Director, Haute Living San Francisco

I am pleased to offer my strongest recommendation for Karen Smith, with whom I have worked closely and consistently. Karen’s command of language, attention to detail, and respect for authorial voice are exceptional. She brings clarity, precision, and professionalism to every project, often improving not just correctness but overall readability and impact. Equally important, she is reliable, collaborative, and unfailingly

Donna Johnson, Author

I highly recommend Karen, she did a remarkable job editing my first book manuscript. I look forward to working with her in the future.

Aaron Hunnel, Author

Karen helped bring my story to life by editing my manuscript and giving me thoughtful recommendations to enhance my stories. Her attention to detail, creativity and professionalism make Karen a top notch partner for any business endeavor you seek. I highly recommend her services.

Johnny B. Dunn, Screenwriter

Words with depth, structure smooth and poetic, and a level of professionalism unmatched by other writers I have worked with, best describes my experience working with Karen. She holds such command of the English language that it has been a pleasure and relief to find someone so capable of leading me through the journey of crafting and polishing my thoughts

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.