Manuscript Evaluation Ross Browne 2018-03-07T05:10:01+00:00

Manuscript Evaluation

Editorial memo assessing commercial and literary potential and areas for improvement

Overview

A manuscript evaluation is one of the most common starting points for engaging The Editorial Department. Based on a careful review and analysis of a manuscript of any length, the evaluation includes both a detailed, written editorial memorandum and a session of phone consultation with your editor, all with the goal of identifying what’s working, what can work better, and what specific steps can be taken to give your manuscript the best chances of successful publication and warm reception in the marketplace.

What To Expect

Writers with promising manuscripts that simply need some objective editorial insight to improve their odds of successful publication can expect just that. Writers whose work isn’t yet ready for the marketplace will get candid, comprehensive feedback on what’s not working, what they need to learn, and what we see as the best path to get the manuscript on a better and/or more salable track. All writers can expect a thoughtful, thorough assessment of their manuscript’s literary and commercial potential, with attention to any relevant points of craft. For fiction this includes plotting, structure, pacing, characterization, dialogue, writing style, mechanics, grammar, and punctuation. For nonfiction, key considerations include content, organization, structure, clarity, flow, suitability for intended readership, writing style, mechanics, grammar, and punctuation.

Recommendations can range from suggestions on how to make an excellent book irresistible through advice on major structural or stylistic changes to help making a good idea work better. In cases where a story’s premise or conceptual weaknesses significantly limit the likelihood of its evolution into something with a reasonable chance of being published, the report will explore and explain the challenges in further detail, with the follow-up phone consultation becoming the main vehicle for exploring how you might go about rethinking the project and getting it on a better path.

Included in the price of the evaluation is up to a half-hour of phone or email consultation with the reviewing editor. This session gives our editors the opportunity to answer any questions about comments made in the report and to discuss and respond to any ideas the author may have about the manuscript. Consultation beyond the time included in the evaluation package, if desired, is available at our standard rate of $75 per hour.

Meet Our Specialists

Jonathan Balcombe

Favorite genres include science, nature, history, memoir, social sciences, travel, and narrative nonfiction

Renni Browne

Favorite genres include memoir, southern fiction, mystery/suspense, and character driven literary or mainstream fiction

Marcia Ford

Favorite genres include memoir, multi cultural fiction, literary fiction, thrillers, and thoughtful works on religion and spirituality

Karinya Funsett-Topping

Favorite genres include literary fiction, romance, short stories, essays, and stories involving animals or magic realism

Peter Gelfan

Favorite genres include memoir, literary fiction, mainstream fiction, humor and satire, thrillers, science, and philosophy

Lindsay Guzzardo

Favorite genres include contemporary women's fiction, romance, literary fiction, mainstream fiction, and historical fiction

John Robert Marlow

Favorite genres include thrillers, mystery/suspense, action/adventure, middle grade and YA fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and true crime

Julie Miller

Favorite genres include memoir, literary fiction, thrillers, and books involving ecology, nature, animals, and the environment

Brian Preston

Favorite genres include humor and satire, memoir, travel, and historical fiction and nonfiction

Shannon Roberts

Favorite genres include science fiction, fantasy, middle grade and YA fiction, mystery/suspense, LGBTQ, and social science

Betsy Tice White

Favorite genres include crime, literary fiction, mainstream fiction, mystery/suspense, thrillers, and true crime

Pricing

Evaluation pricing for manuscripts over 50,000 words is $0.01 per word. Pricing for shorter manuscripts is as follows:

37,501 – 50,000 words:	$500
25,001 – 37,500 words:	$405
12,501 – 25,000 words:	$315
6,251 – 12,500 words:	$225
Less than 6,250 words:	$120

Turnaround Time

Turnaround time for manuscript evaluations is typically 4 weeks.

View a Sample

Click here to see a manuscript evaluation sample.

Getting Started

To request a quote, make a submission, or request more information

Please visit our online welcome center, email us at admin@editorialdepartment.com, or call us at (520) 546-9992.

What happens next?

All inquiries to The Editorial Department will be personally fielded by author services director Ross Browne, who will do the following:

confirm receipt of your materials
gather any further information needed
do a no-cost/no-obligation preliminary review, to get a feel for which editor(s) and service(s) best fit your project’s needs
provide a written quote with price and turnaround time for any recommended services
answer any questions about recommended options or possible alternatives
schedule your project with the assigned editor, if you decide to move forward
explain and finalize the appropriate billing arrangements
provide a firm delivery date and keep you updated on our progress, as appropriate
deliver your feedback or editing to you once it’s ready
arrange for follow up with your editor by phone or email, once you have reviewed your feedback and/or editing
advise on next steps, and schedule reviews of new drafts if requested

Privacy & Confidentiality

We have utmost respect for our clients’ privacy concerns and will never sell, share, or disseminate your contact information. We will treat all materials supplied to us as confidential.

Formal nondisclosure agreements are not required but are available on request. More info is available here.

“If you imagine, all the while while you’re copy-editing, that your manuscript is the work of a slipshod and possibly feeble-minded soul, you’ll find it easy to adopt the most effective copy-editing attitude: suspicion. Go slow and question everything.”

Judith Appelbaum

“Renni Browne’s comments were a learning experience, invaluable to my writing journey.”

Sharon Spencer Shlesinger
Thousand Oaks, CA

“Karinya Funsett-Topping has been prompt and thorough with trustworthy professional guidance. I felt this team looked after me and my work, rather than just doing another business deal.”

Stephen Foehr
Author or Water War and other titles

“Several years ago Ross Browne critiqued my manuscript, Poison Pen, which was the first really helpful input I’d had. Ross’ comments helped me understand and implement important changes that needed to be made throughout the book. Bottom line, Poison Pen soon received a starred review in Publishers Weekly. As a result, Penguin has purchased the first two books in the series from Capital Crime Press, the small publisher who took it on.”

Sheila Lowe
Author of Poison Pen and other titles

“I basically learned how to write a novel from Peter Gelfan. Peter has helped me with all facets of editing, including plot development, on 4 novels over the last ten years. Three have been published.”

Chris Leibig
Author of Almost Mortal and other titles

“The care you took with this shows on every page. Your edits were wonderful, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate them. You not only removed the filler so the rest shines, but also improved the best stuff as well.”

Scott Reardon
Author of The Prometheus Man

“I had several “ah ha!” moments when Renni Browne or Shannon Roberts pinpointed weak areas in the plot – and offered solutions. Both editors had ideas about how to add depth to main characters and spice up the conflict. The annotation was incredibly thorough.”

S.E. Floyd
Temple Terrace, FL

“Where the Monster Weights began as a 120k wordy manuscript full of grammatical missteps and irrelevant diversions. Enter TED. The team drove through two content edits and one line edit to create a razor sharp storyline.

If you’re looking for a great editorial house, the search is over when you find TED.”

Corinne Weber
Author of Where the Monster Weights

“I feel the comments and annotations were helpful and even more important, instructive. It’s like a personalized download of college-level critique focused on my work, my writing skills and techniques. Awesome.”

Robin Merrill
Mesa, AZ

“A very helpful set of services and exceptionally talented staff. My critique and evaluation were delivered to me in a timely manner. The quality of commentary was very helpful and critiques were articulate, allowing me to improve my manuscript.”

Lee Libro
Lakewood Ranch, FL

“Shannon Roberts helped educate me in novel writing and because she took the time to really understand and evaluate my work, she was able to lift much of the writers block off my shoulders. This gave me the motivation to press forward, take my lumps and learn from my mistakes. Shannon Roberts is invaluable and I couldn’t have made it this far without her. ”

Jay Price
Imperial Beach, CA

“Shannon Robert’s comments gave me an objective overview of the problems areas within my manuscript. The suggestions offered were insightful and evidence that she had read the manuscript and carefully considered the areas that needed work. I know the manuscript will be stronger as a result.”

Shuna Meade
Dartmouth, Devon, UK

“Renni Browne is tough but in a good way. She’s also supportive, complimentary, encouraging, and funny as heck. When she tells you something is falling flat, she means it, and when she tells you she loves something, she means it. And when I say Renni has been a wonderful editor, mentor, support-system, cheerleader, coach, and now someone I call a friend, I mean it.”

Chevy Stevens
Best-selling Author of Still Missing and other titles

“I am very happy. I think I got good advice delivered with heart.”

Noreene Storrie
New York, NY

“I’ve partnered with The Editorial Department on my last three novels because I know my books are far better as a result. We writers aren’t the best judge of our own work, so it’s incredibly helpful to receive their professional feedback and support.”

Laura Fitzgerald
National Bestselling Author of Veil of Roses and other titles

veil of roses by laura fitzgerald

“I was very impressed with The Editorial Department. Karinya Funsett-Topping’s Manuscript Evaluation was detailed, informative and very helpful. I was impressed with the amount of feedback and have put it to good use.”

Debra Adair
Scottsdale, AZ

“I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to help bring out the best in my manuscript. They gave me great value for the money.”

Mike Lusk
Geneva, IL

“In the time since I’ve been working with TED I’ve grown so much as a writer. It’s like taking a writing class where you’re the only student. I also learned how to take criticism as well, a very important skill for a writer to have.”

Bishop O’Connell
Author of The Stolen and other titles

the stolen by bishop oconnell

“We received superb advice from Peter Gelfan. He nailed the book’s structural problems and gave us the the tools to fix them.”

Rick Becker and Ann Brandvig
Portland, OR

“Your level of service exceeded my expectations. Ross Browne patiently answered my questions, concerns and made this experience pleasant and fulfilling. My editor’s evaluation was honest, hopeful and her direction brought my writing to a whole new level. I appreciate everything TED has done for me and I’m grateful for all your help!”

Marni Mann
Author of Memoirs Aren’t Fairytales: A Story of Addiction

“I’ve been writing for ten years to marginal avail. But with assistance from TED my skills have accelerated. I could not have taken my novel to where it is now headed without you. Feedback is direct but encouraging, at times painful, worth every penny.”

Andrew Quinn
Author of Waterfall Dance

“Sometimes this writing process is a bit lonely. We’re sticking our necks out and have no idea if we’re the only ones that care what we’ve written. The Editorial Department changes this for me. I’ve come to think of TED as my easily accessible writing family. Like a good family, TED tells me what works, what doesn’t, and shows me how to push forward. Peter Gelfan lends an incredible mind to this process, and your website offers writers information they’ll not find anywhere else.

While Peter Gelfan guided me down the path to write more like a professional and introduced me to the world of solid plots, Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts’ annotated editing turned me into an honest recorder of my characters’ voices and behaviors. That’s way better than just being a clever writer. I think that any writer who doesn’t use an intelligent editor(s) won’t ever know how good their work might be.”

Charlene Dietz
Torreon, NM

“I feel lucky. I feel humbled. But most of all, I feel grateful. I’m grateful to everyone at the Editorial Department, and especially grateful to Renni Browne. Without them, my dream would not have come true.”

Scott Pratt
Author of An Innocent Client and other titles

an innocent client by scott pratt

“TED’s evaluation of “The Darkness at Dawn” was spot on. Andrew Hilleman identified both the manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing me to move forward with clearly defined objectives for my next draft. Andrew’s insights have given me the confidence I need to rewrite and edit knowing that I am on the right track.”

Pamela Roberts
Lee Alamogordo, NM

“My experience has been wonderful. My evaluation helped point out the good and the bad in my book. This helped me focus on the specific issues needed, instead of floundering endlessly on revisions. I have recommended TED to my writing friends and will continue to do so.”

Carla Rehse
Copperas Cove, TX

“Both Jen Howard & Doug Wagner were very insightful, and their notes were clear and concise. ”

Norman Ollestad
Author of Crazy for the Storm (a New York Times bestseller) and other titles

“Peter Gelfan brought a fresh perspective into the picture, along with a great sense of humor, a ton of patience, and many brilliant ideas. Writing a book is a protracted and sometimes intimidating process, but having The Editorial Department to fall back on makes the going much easier.”

Louise Vimmerstedt
Tucson, AZ

“What I see now is that y’all taught me how to write my novel. And I do mean my novel. No one tried to change my story but simply pointed out ways to make the writing better. Two years ago, one editor said he wasn’t sure if The Pursuit of Justice would ever be a marketable novel. Last month Kirkus Reviews called it ‘an auspicious debut’ … Thank You!”

Ben Matthews
Author of Pursuit of Justice

“Renni Browne has an hysterical sense of humor and she gets it. She gets the pain of a writer trying to find the words, changes everything for the better with one red line and though tough in her critique sometimes, does so with a true desire to develop something good into something great.”

Jacqueline Gum
Ft Lauderdale, FL

“The comments received and questions raised open up new avenues to explore and generate new ideas that would not have occurred to me otherwise. The encouragement is a real boost to my confidence and inspires me to think bigger and bolder. This service has made a tremendous difference in my development as a writer. It’s like attending a private writing class.”

Estela Bernal
Portland, OR

“I followed about 90% of my editor’s recommendations. Then I submitted to three editors. One (a S&S imprint) has offered a contract which we are looking at right now. I credit the improvement in the quality of my manuscript to the work I received from TED. I plan to do the same thing with the next book.”

John Faubion
Author of Friend Me

“I had no idea what to expect when I sent you the manuscript, and I am SO GLAD I did. I’m ready to begin the revision, and thanks to your feedback, I know what to do. I frankly feel like I’ve gotten an education from this process, an invaluable one. It was far worth every penny.”

Melanie Reese Senn
San Luis Obispo, CA

“John Marlow’s critique far surpassed my expectations. He pointed out problems that I probably never would have seen on my own due to my familiarity with the material. I had no idea he would be so thorough. Very professionally done.”

Dave Erickson
Iowa City, IA

“I learned more about good writing from Beth Jusino’s annotations and feedback than from any post-grad course I’ve done. I hate to think what I might have put out there without her great advice.”

Bobbie Cole
New Brunswick, Canada

“I am not objective when it comes to The Editorial Department. Everyone was professional, friendly, encouraging, and gave terrific advice. I learned so much, but the lesson that will stick with me is that I put my trust in The Editorial Department in the first place.”

Heather Denniss
Oregon, Ohio

“I loved working with TED. Everyone I was in contact with was very professional. I had a tight timeline and the review, re-read, as well as the copy editing by Doug Wagner, were all within my timeline. I really appreciated this. Thanks.”

Manju Soni
Mystic, CT

“I’m happy to be your client and grateful for your many services that have exceeded my already high expectations.”

Holland Kane
Author of Winter Reeds and other titles

“I’ve employed editorial services in the past, but The Editorial Department is so far above those that they’ve set a new standard for me. Professional, expert and incredibly easy to work with.”

Larry Bonner
Delray Beach, FL

“I never would’ve developed as a fiction writer without the Editorial Department. The advice is invaluable, the insight brilliant, and the people exceptional. And, thankfully, their services are affordable. Go ahead, check around.”

Tony Bertauski
Author of The Discovery of Socket Greeny

“Engaging and easy to implement suggestions and changes. I’m very pleased with the results.”

Benjamin Kane Ethridge
Author of Black & Orange

“The staff at The Editorial Department is first-rate. In my dealings with them I’ve found them to be prompt, professional, and extremely good at what they do. The work is innovative and creative. The company is well run too. Every time I called, someone actually answered the phone and either provided assistance or put me through to someone who could.”

Cynthia Anderson
Author of River Talk

“I’ve learned more about fiction writing working with Renni Browne, Ross Browne, and Shannon Roberts than I did completing my graduate writing program. Their insights regarding my manuscript were invaluable.”

Mark Ziebart
Boulder, CO

“I really like working with The Editorial Department–not only because the editing work is excellent and professional but also because the staff is extremely helpful and always make me feel welcome.”

Yveta Germano
Alpharetta, GA

“I recommend this service to any writer who wants a balanced, constructive appraisal of his or her work.”

Mark Davis
Columbus, OH

“I have worked with The Editorial Department for many years, which has included everything from plot development, character development, line editing and even interior and cover design. TED was not the first group I worked with for these services, but they will be the last. Great, highly qualified and collaborative people who have made a positive difference in my writing.”

John H. Cunningham
Author of the Buck Reilly series

Red Light Return

“I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with The Editorial Department. They go above and beyond to give prompt, friendly service. And Shannon Roberts’ comments on my manuscript are always insightful and spot on. I would recommend them without hesitation!”

Kathleen Tremblay
Los Angeles, CA

“Renni Browne’s comments are clear and straightforward. They not only help improve a particular scene, but help make me a better writer while maintaining the essence of the story I’m trying to relate. Beth Jusino has extensive knowledge of the marketplace and provides impactful insights into how to market a book. She also writes great copy. ”

Rich Silvers
Author of Have You Seen Her?

“Betsy White was exceedingly helpful, insightful, encouraging, and most important, always available. My experience was a very positive one.”

Lloyd Holm
Washington, IA

“I’ve looked for someone to help me for years and finally found The Editorial Department. They truly care about writers trying to make it in this market. I’m satisfied with the work of The Editorial Department.”

Charles Elkins
Albuquerque, NM

“Renni Browne’s comments, her grace and ability to correct and teach at the same time, have advanced my writing skills. She is a joy!”

Bonnie Kogos
New York, NY

“Shannon Roberts was wonderful to work with. Very demanding but also totally professional and tactful in her feedback.”

Jim Adam
Huntersville, NC

“All the staff at The Editorial Department answered questions in a prompt and gracious manner. My work with Beth Jusino was great. She gave me feedback and asked questions regarding my novel which gave me a greater vision of the storyline.”

Patricia Patterson
Atlanta, GA

“I have been extremely pleased with the services that the Editorial Department has provided me. Andy Hilleman’s critique and guidance for my ongoing struggle with my novel has been invaluable as I forge ahead with this project. The office staff has been particularly supportive. Tucson is so very lucky to have access to such a fantastic service!

Mary Jane Overall
Tucson, AZ

“I found TED through a recommendation of one of my favorite authors. I was honestly blown away with their professionalism and customer service through the entire process. Their communication, as well as the work they performed exceeded my expectations.”

Lorilee Lippincott
Omaha, Nebraska

“One hour of consultation with John Marlow kicked my novel’s climax from a great ending to a killer ending! He was able to help me ratchet up the suspense, create some additional unique, memorable scenes and bring a couple of my characters to vibrant life.”

Brett Valette, Ph.D.
Superior, CO

“Peter Gelfan’s guidance on story development has been a revelation for me. It has saved me a year — probably more — of wasting time on ideas that don’t work. He has given me a new perspective on writing novels. Worth the money? Without a doubt.”

Mary Maddox
Author of Daemon Seer & other titles

“I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my experiences with the professionals at the Editorial Department. They helped me write my second book, from initial concept to manuscript completion, in less than two months.”

Steven Knope, MD,
Author of Concierge Medicine

“I have been very happy in my experience with the Editorial Department thus far. For a young writer such as myself, the commentary goes beyond the piece in question to serve as a sort of education in and of itself.”

Taylor Brown
Author of In The Season of Blood & Gold and other titles

“I think most of Peter Gelfan’s input was spot on and will greatly assist me in improving the manuscript. It will, I now realize, be more of a deconstruct/reconstruct effort than a polish, but based on Peter’s insights I think I have a good handle on how to proceed. Money well spent.”

R.E. McDermott
Author of Deadly Straits and other titles

“I have received the report and am very pleased both with the invaluable advice and gentle way it was presented.”

Nicholas Chiarkas
Author of Weepers

“This is the third time I’ve engaged The Editorial Department and the third time I’ve been more than satisfied. Your editors are friendly, helpful, and easy to work with. They give thoughtful and valuable feedback and make strong suggestions to help improve the manuscript. I’m very pleased with the work Shannon Roberts did.”

Christopher Buecheler
Author of Blood Hunt and other titles

“I am completely blown away by the feedback from Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts. That kind of clear and concise feedback is absolutely invaluable, and I can see now why so many published authors continue to work with TED after succeeding.”

Mags Storey
Newmarket, ONT

“Very satisfactory at all levels. The interactions with my editor have been very pleasant, and her comments and suggestions are extremely helpful, not only for revising this one manuscript, but also for acquiring a better understanding of all of the elements involved in the writing of a novel.”

Maria S. Sanchez
San Francisco, CA

“I am more than impressed with the professionalism and encouragement I’ve received from each member of your staff, from first contact on. I cannot imagine working with anyone else from now on.”

Auburn McCanta
Author of All The Dancing Birds

“My experience with The Editorial Department has been outstanding! Their customer service and enthusiasm is wonderful, and my editor a pleasure to work with.”

Jason Reinhardt
Tucson, AZ

“Working Shannon Roberts was great. The annotation was beyond what I was expecting and it totally helped me to fix a lot of issues I have been having with my writing.”

John Logsdon
Willow Spring, NC

“I was extremely pleased with both the thoroughness and honesty of the evaluation of my manuscript. John Marlow is a great help, and quite clearly knows what he is talking about. I got the help and input I needed to take my project to the next level. Thank you all!”

Paula Fletchall-Bryner
Anchorage, AK

“Shannon Roberts’ evaluation of my manuscript was, at the same time, the most enlightening and most excruciating experience I’ve ever had. Though difficult at first, I’ve managed to implement most of the changes and the manuscript is indescribably better as a result. ”

John Robbins
Mesa, Arizona

“Thorough and professional. Betsy White gave valuable suggestions that led to a major rewrite of my manuscript.”

Harold Thorpe
Butte des Mortes, WI

“Beth Jusino is amazing. She really “got” what I was trying to do with the story and her ideas are fantastic. She made great suggestions and I can see my story growing stronger when I implement her ideas.”

Joya Fields
Author of Beneath the Surface and other titles

“Beth Jusino’s comments on the manuscript were clear, concise, and candid. She kept me honest and helped me to reach out to the reader in a more accessible manner. Her ability to understand my vision is impressive, as if it were a personal project of her own.”

G.C Gonzalez
Holden, MA

“To the folks at The Editorial Department, Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts, this book is light years ahead of where it was before I started working with you. I give you my utmost thanks.”

D. Robert Pease
Author of Noah Zarc series and other titles

mammoth rtouble trouble by D. Robert Pease

“I now know why so many authors in their acknowledgments say, ‘This book would not be what it is if not for such and such editor.’ Peter Gelfan is one of those editors”

Bud Kenny
Author of Footloose in America

“You’re providing a very useful service to writers in search of that increasingly elusive commodity: a detailed and knowledgeable critique of a book’s strengths and weaknesses. I was very pleased with my manuscript evaluation. I found your prices to be fair in terms of the services delivered and the professionals providing them.”

Mimi Jones Hedwig
New York, NY

“As I’ve come to expect from TED, the business end was flawless and smooth. I felt as though I had a partner in the work.”

Terry Green
Sherman Oaks, CA

“I was delighted with the detailed comments about my manuscript and welcomed the straightforward suggestions of what worked and what needed to be strengthened. Overall, it was a valuable learning experience that veered me down paths I wouldn’t have thought of on my own.”

Millie Richmond
Sebring, FL

“Personable communication tailored to my needs. Pleasure to work with, gave excellent advice and delivered excellent feedback.”

Steve Little
Westfield, NJ

“Excellent input, great communication. Felt personally connected to each person I spoke with. I especially enjoyed the honest feedback and the way the criticisms were given. I have become a better writer as a result of my interaction with Betsy White and the rest of the Editorial Department.”

Tommy Black
Midway, GA

“I appreciated the frank criticism along with the suggestions to improve the work. It has definitely improved dramatically the end product. This input from TED has been a worthwhile investment.”

George Sopasakis
College Station, TX

“I appreciate Peter Gelfan’s expertise as an editor. He keeps me focused and his editorial skills exceeded my expectations. So glad I explored using an editor on this journey.”

Valerie L. Rice
Lansing, MI

“I’ve been very pleased. I feel that the quality of my writing has increased tremendously in my work with Betsy White.”

John Middleton
Author of Jem: Lessons in Living

“TED was very helpful and wonderful to work with and I learned a great deal from Shannon Roberts and Doug Wagner.”

Phillip Adam
Green Bay, WI

“John Marlow has by far given me the most constructive feedback on my three novels and one screenplay. Others — including some professionals — only gave me some pats on the back and made a few comments that had nowhere near the substance needed. John sees things that I am still working on grasping. No one else has done that for me, and I appreciate it immensely.”

Mike Merrell
Author of the Abby Westminster Series

“I’ve digested Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts’ notes, comments, suggestions and encouragement and can honestly say I’ve never been more fired up about a rewrite. Their insights, thoughtful analyses and gentle techniques for steering me past my thousand squishy sentences have given me the tools and ideas I need to put the final polish on Killer, Cop and Me.'”

Jane Howatt
Oak View, CA

“Peter Gelfan is just the right fit for me. I get the feeling he really understands what I’m trying to do and he has the expertise and sensitivity to help me do it.

I’m so glad I’m not alone in all this.”

Charlie Knudsen
Shizuoka, Japan

“Karinya Funsett gave me valuable advice on everything from character development to plot issues that were confusing, and all things in between. It was by far the most valuable service I’ve done for my novel. ”

Lora Williams
Kingsport, TN

“Betsy Tice White helped me add humor and clarity to my writing. This, in addition to her superb editing, organizational skills and constant encouragement makes her a first class editor.”

John S. Palmer
Washington, DC

“Excellent communication and professional in every sense of the word.”

Jeff Bolinger
Hampton, Australia

“My introduction to Shannon Roberts was through a manuscript evaluation. Her comments, ideas and humor had me taking a machete to the pages and coming back for a re-read report. She is meticulous, honest and insanely talented.”

Chris Little
Author of The Darkness of Shadows

“I was pleased with the prompt responses, professionalism, knowledge of craft, and caring I experienced. It really did feel like you guys were allies. Working with Shannon Roberts has been wonderful. She gets it. She can be tough and I don’t always want to hear what she has to say, but as it sinks in I realize she’s usually right. What’s been missing in my writing career is a professional editor. Thanks so much.”

Barbara Ledingham
Seattle, WA

Manuscript Evaluation

Editorial memo assessing commercial and literary potential and areas for improvement

Overview

What To Expect

Meet Our Specialists

Pricing

Turnaround Time

View a Sample

Getting Started