Manuscript Critique Services
Writing a book is hard, but here’s the good news: you don’t have to go it alone. A second pair of eyes might be just what your story needs. A manuscript critique will identify weaknesses and help take your writing to the next level.
Full Manuscript Critique
You know your story better than anyone. And sometimes that’s the problem. You know what you’re trying to accomplish so intimately that you might not see what’s not working. I know that getting a fresh, objective perspective on my work has been invaluable to my progress as a writer.
A manuscript critique can identify issues, areas for improvement, and help you find solutions for roadblocks that have you feeling stuck, all for a far less hefty price tag than a full developmental edit.
You’ll get thoughtful feedback on story structure, plot, pacing, dialogue, and characterisation. I’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of your manuscript, and how you can get it closer to being ready for the query journey, self-publishing, or whatever you want to do next!
So, what can you expect?
A 3–5 page written critique
Your critique letter will give you an assessment of the major components of your manuscript, including plot, characterisation, pacing, themes, worldbuilding (for fantasy and sci-fi), and dialogue, and outline areas for improvement. It’ll answer questions such as: Does the plot work? Are there any consistency issues? Are the relationships between characters believable? How well does the story flow? When you book, you’ll be able to tell me about any particular roadblocks you’re having so I can zero in on those issues.
Detailed in-line comments
You’ll get annotations throughout the manuscript, plus my honest reactions as a reader!
A 2–4 week turnaround time
It takes time to give a thoughtful, well-considered analysis. If your manuscript is 100,000 words or over, please contact me directly about timelines.
Rate
US$0.007 (JM$1.12) per word
Quick reminder! A critique is not an edit. I won’t be providing line editing, copy editing, or proofreading. I may rewrite the occasional sentence as an example of how you can tighten your writing.
First 50 Pages Critique
Not ready for a full manuscript critique yet, or just want to have an analysis of your sample pages before querying literary agents? Then a critique of the first 50 pages might be right for you.
You’ll receive a 1–3 page written letter with detailed notes and in-line comments throughout your pages.
Turnaround time within two weeks.
Rate
US$170 (JM$27,200)
FAQs
How do I format my manuscript?
Manuscripts must be submitted as a Word Doc or Google Doc, in Times New Roman font, 12 pt., double-spaced.
What payment methods do you accept?
A 50% deposit is required at booking with the other 50% upon submission of the manuscript. Local payments are accepted via bank transfer (you will be provided with banking details on booking). For international payments I accept PayPal.
What genres do you accept?
As a fantasy writer, that’s my jam, but I’ll happily accept all genres except novels in verse, poetry or erotica. If your manuscript contains excessive animal cruelty, I’m going to have to pass. Please reach out if you’re unsure.
Do you use AI when critiquing a manuscript?
I will never run your manuscript through any AI software. I do not accept manuscripts that have been wholly or partially AI generated for critique. Keeping it humans only around here folks!
Further questions? Reach out to me at stephaniekoathes@gmail.com.
Ready to work together?
Great! Fill out some info about your manuscript and I’ll be in touch.
No manuscript submitted will ever be shared with an outside party and will never be inputted into AI software. Thank you for trusting me with your work!
Testimonials
“Stephanie's feedback on my manuscript was invaluable! She flagged some of my tendencies as a writer that I overuse so much I became blind to, and helped me consider how to better structure ways for readers to connect. Where I was too close to the story, Stephanie brought clarity. Her critique was specific, actionable, and delivered in a constructive way that never made me feel 'less than' as an author. I can't recommend her enough.”
- Sarah Goehrke, author of The Keepers, coming in 2026
“Working with Stephanie was so valuable to my editing process. She offered detailed line-level comments, thoroughly addressed all my specific questions and concerns, and provided insight into my manuscript that hadn’t even occurred to me. Her turnaround time was super quick and she was supportive, but transparent with the delivery of her feedback. I highly recommend a manuscript critique with Stephanie!”
- Jenn C., thriller writer