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Manuscript Evaluation
The last thing we decide in writing a book is what to put first. -- Blaise Pascal
The Manuscript Evaluation is a thorough written evaluation of an author's entire book manuscript -- from the first page to the last.
- It can be used as a stand-alone editorial service (with, of course, a prior reading).
- And it is one of the four, integrated editorial services recommended for each manuscript:
Reading > Evaluation > Test Edit > Complete Edit
(For more information, please see: How We Can Work Together.)
The Manuscript Evaluation -- twenty-five to thirty pages, or more -- begins with a detailed analysis of your book manuscript's strengths: What works well. What your book's real "successes" are.
This is followed by a lengthy analysis of those areas that may need some additional editorial attention to strengthen and enhance the manuscript. And make it everything it can be.
- There may be areas, for instance, that could benefit from restructuring (rethinking the framework or flow and rearranging blocks of text), in addition to rewriting.
- Or the manuscript may perhaps need another look at certain factual details, or additional areas of research.
The intention is always to enhance and strengthen your book's content and meaning, as well as its presentation and clarity for readers.
I write novels. And while my readers know they're reading fiction, if there are factual errors, or a plot line that seems implausible, my story's believability will start to slide. So even though I do a lot of research for each novel, I still rely on my editor to make sure that nothing in the new manuscript jeopardizes my credibility.
In fact, during Manuscript Evaluation for the second book in my mystery trilogy, Laurel found an error of fact based on my understanding of a particular medical practice. Without her editorial discernment, many readers would have seen that mistake and lost interest -- for the simple reason that a factually incorrect story eats away at the fictional magic, ultimately destroying the fictive "spell."
For me, the Manuscript Evaluation is a form of author insurance. I wouldn't want my books published without it.
-- Andrew Greenwood, Author, Random Sample Mysteries
Authors are invited to Contact Us to outline their Manuscript Evaluation needs and questions in an email, so we may discuss these during the initial phone consultation which is free.
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