Now that you’ve finished your novel, or even if you’re nearly there, you’ll need to get your writing into the best shape before submitting it to an agent or self-publishing.
I will focus on all aspects of your writing and story, providing an honest and market-aware opinion on what’s working well and where it can improve.
My appraisals are an invaluable part of your writing process and the best tool in your writing arsenal to drive you to your goal.
How it works
On receipt of your manuscript, we'll have an initial discussion via Zoom, Google Meet, or a phone call, whatever is more comfortable for you. This is so I can learn more about your story, its inspiration, and your end goal, whether you want to go through traditional or self-publication or driving to improve your creative writing process.
I will then read and assess your novel or short story on all aspects and layers, including Plot, Characterisation, Narrative Voice, Point of View, style, and your book's marketability.
We will then have a follow-up Zoom, Google Meet, or phone call to summarise the assessment and the next steps and answer any questions you might have on anything I've written.
Opening Consultation
We will have an initial talk over video or phone call for up to one hour to discuss your story, what inspired it, your ideas and goals - where you want your writing to go.
Manuscript Mark-Ups
Once I've received your manuscript, I will work through it and give in-document comments and mark-ups on every page of your document - where are the strengths and what could be improved.
Chapter By Chapter
You’ll get a chapter-by-chapter summary throughout the novel. You can see where each fits into the overall structure and my expectations for the next.
Story Engagement Chart™
You will receive my unique Story Engagement Chart™. Does your story or novel fit the Three Act Structure? Does it need to? You can see in a snapshot where your novel sags, where I felt the narrative lost appeal, or why the pace slowed. You can see which parts need more work and how to get there quickly.
Full Manuscript Critique
You will get a full written assessment of your manuscript on all critical aspects of storytelling, including Theme, Point of View, Characterisations, Narrative Voice, Pace, Tension, Structure, Dialogue, Causality, Sense of Place, and Style. With these elements, you'll be able to focus on where to make improvements for your next draft.
Follow-up Call
Once the assessment is complete, we can arrange a follow-up call via video or phone, whatever is best for you. I can talk through my comments with you, answer any questions you might have, and help in any way I can with the next steps for your novel. I am available anytime if you need help or want to check in.
How long will it take?
The service will take 4-6 weeks.
If you would like an express critique, drop me a line for a quote.
Why not try FourStoriesTall’s Manuscript Services before you commit
Fill in the form below. I will be in touch for you to send me your first chapter, which I will critique for free. I will send the chapter back to you with in-line comments, my Story Engagement Chart™ and chapter summary, so you know what you’re going to get out of a full manuscript critique
Cost
Short Stories: (up to 6,000 words) = £150
Novels: First 30,000 words = £360 for words above this £0.004 per word
Why not find what FourStoriesTall can do for you
Simply fill in the form, or give me a call on 07973 841170
