Manuscript Assessment

EDITORIAL LETTER

​A manuscript assessment looks at “big picture” elements such as structure, audience, purpose, themes, voice, marketability, and more. A manuscript assessment is a recommended first step, because it doesn’t make sense to fine-tune paragraphs and sentences until the overall structure is sound. In this holistic edit, you'll receive an editorial letter that assesses strengths and weaknesses, and shows you how to turn weaknesses into strengths.

An editorial letter addresses crucial questions:
  • Who are your ideal readers? What will they come away with?
  • Are the chapters and parts well organized?
  • Is the narrative interesting and well-paced?
  • Is there enough explanation? too much?
  • Is the argument persuasive? (nonfiction)
  • Are the sources documented? (nonfiction)
  • Is the conclusion convincing and satisfying? (nonfiction)
  • Can we visualize the setting? (memoir)
  • Are the main characters well developed? (memoir)
  • Are dramatic events shown in scenes? (memoir)
  • Is the voice authentic?

What do you get?
Editorial letter. The editorial letter provides you with my analyses and comments in one place; you won’t have to hunt through emails or comments in the margins. You can read the letter at leisure and refer back to it easily. My editorial letters are quite thorough, and typically range from 10 to 15 pages (3,000 to 4,500 words).
​Outline. I'll include an outline or suggested table of contents to guide your revision.
​Support. I'll communicate with you in whatever way works best: email, phone, Zoom/Skype, or in person.

What does it cost?

I charge $800 to evaluate manuscripts up to 85,000 words.
Picture
Cant' see the forest for the trees? A manuscript assessment lets you see the big picture and a charts a path for revision.
​I wanted to work with an editor who could help me produce a solid manuscript to submit to my publisher. I feel very fortunate to have found Ellie Barton. She is thorough, creative, and extremely knowledgeable. I recommend her services most highly.
– Robert Mundle, On Becoming a Better Listener: A Practical Spiritual Guide for Hospice Palliative Care Volunteers ​