Services "If I'd had writing-partner.com on my side twenty years ago I would already be published."
THE BIG TWO: Manuscript Evaluation and Line Edit
Manuscript Evaluation— It all starts here All manuscripts submitted to writing-partner.com receive a comprehensive Manuscript Evaluation—indeed, its comprehensive nature is what sets apart this service. This is not a breezy consideration of your story's overall impact. Think of this as a week-long writer's workshop, with no costs for room and board, where all commentary is aimed at your project alone! In addition to mark-ups on the page, this customized, written critique (more than 15 single-spaced pages for book-length work) will identify the strengths and weaknesses of your project, and let you know whether your major story elements are working for you.
I will evaluate overall impact and writing mechanics, and suggest specific modifications or, if need be, point you toward general areas of study that will deepen your understanding. I will comment on anything that I’m having trouble “buying” (but will not promise to verify your research). I'll edit for continuity. Is it boring in spots? I'll tell you. Is there potential for your themes and images to work harder for you? I’ll tell you that, too.
For fiction projects, I will determine the
effectiveness of your plot, setting, point of view, and dialogue. For
nonfiction, I will comment on voice, focus, the logical presentation of
information, and readability.
The base fee for this service is $3/page plus $350 (plus PA sales tax, if applicable). All work must be pre-paid and is non-refundable (click here for instructions on how to submit). If after editing 50 pages of your submission it becomes apparent that the work will require major revisions, I will return the marked-up pages with my evaluation, give you the time you need to revise, and credit the remaining funds toward evaluating your revised submission. (Fee may be adjusted depending on the demands of the specific project, as based on a sample. For short stories please ask for an estimate; a $200 minimum for first-time clients applies.)
One week after receiving your evaluation you may request a follow-up, and I will call you to discuss the project for up to one hour for no additional charge. I ask that you wait one week to allow additional reflection to contribute to your perspective.
Since editing can be a costly process,
it is in your best interest to learn as much about self-editing as
possible. Go back to the home page to subscribe to Nibs, the Writing Partner newsletter, which
will include self-editing tips as well as information on upcoming
e-tutorials.
Line Edit— The final destination After you have received one or more Manuscript Evaluations, and we agree that your project needs only minor tweaking, it is time for a Line Edit. From scene choice to word choice to every space and punctuation mark, I'll make sure your writing serves your story and represents you well. The fee for this service is $2/page.
ADD-ON SERVICES
Synopsis Writing
So many novelists hate writing the synopses that agents and editors request—but I think it’s fun. Even at the Manuscript Evaluation stage you might find it revealing to have a reader write a synopsis, so you can see how the story is adding up in that reader’s mind. If you have purchased either a Manuscript Evaluation or a Line Edit, I will write a synopsis for you for an additional $150.
Marketing Materials: Write or Critique
Having trouble tooting your own horn? Let me help you wade through the details of your life for
the tantalizing and relevant tidbits that will help you gain
readership—whether that be from agents, publishing houses, or the general public. Per your request, I will either write or suggest revisions to your query or cover letter, synopsis, cover copy, web copy, press release, or other self-promotional materials until they scream, “Choose me! Choose me!” The editing fee is $3/page; call for a quote for writing fees.
OTHER SERVICES
Submission Package Review If you are getting ready to
submit your work to agents and editors—or are receiving a lackluster
reaction to your submissions—you might be able to blame it on the
sluggish economy. But what if, embedded within your submission, lurk
deal-breaking issues you can't detect? Writing-Partner's Submission
Package Review will help you put your best foot forward. I will review
and edit your query letter, synopsis, and the first two pages of your
manuscript—and let's face it, that's about all the chance you'll get to
make an impression with an agent or editor (and if you think that's
rough, I make purchasing decisions at the bookstore based on only the first
paragraph!). Only $100, this service can be eye-opening and beneficial.
Halfway and Stuck
You had a great idea for a novel…or at least you thought you did. Then you got stuck. Can your manuscript be saved? For $1 per page, I will read what you have so far, then call you to brainstorm with you how to move forward (no written critique with this service).
E-mail tutorials
Subscribe on my home page if you would be interested in receiving information about affordable e-mail tutorials on common writing issues seen at writing-partner.com. Eight-week sessions will be offered throughout the year.
Writing Partner Workshops/Conference Speaker
Reserve a workshop or lecture for your writer’s group, school, or conference. Through examples from published works, writing exercises, or discussion of work submitted in advance, I will lead a workshop discussion that will help participants improve their skills and return to their work with renewed vigor. E-mail me to discuss availability; prices negotiable. Workshops can be tailored to your needs; click here for a list of sample workshops.
Wait—my writing problem isn't listed here!
Need help with a writing-related issue that isn’t listed here? Just e-mail me and describe the problem. If I can help, I'll give you an estimate.
Reach Kathryn via e-mail or by telephone at 610-653-5037
