Margo Kelly's Blog, page 8
September 4, 2019
IWSG: Where in the World would YOU Write?
https://www.insecurewriterssupportgro...Question: If you could pick one place in the world to sit and write your next story, where would it be and why?
My Answer: Easy. I'd pick the mountains. Unplugged. Refreshed. Inspired.
August 7, 2019
Insecure Writer's Support Group
"The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time - and return comments. This group is all about connecting!"
This month's question: Has your writing ever taken you by surprise?
My answer:
I've been reading a terrific book: THE ARTIST'S WAY by Julia Cameron. The book is a 12-week program designed to help unleash your creativity. You read a chapter each week and then complete homework assignments and various exercises to help you tap into your creative power. One of the daily exercises is to hand write three pages of anything on your mind - even if it seems nonsensical. At first this was a real challenge for me, because I felt like my time could be better spent actually working on a current manuscript instead of hand writing random thoughts from my head. I quit after ten days. But then I returned and started over from the beginning, determined to fully commit and complete the program. I am now on week five, and I am learning how beneficial those morning pages are --- by hand writing the "nonsense" from my mind, I'm emptying out the garbage and worries to allow free flowing creativity to pour into my manuscript later. So, I must admit, the rewards of writing those three pages each morning has certainly taken me by surprise.
How about you? Has your writing ever taken you by surprise?
This month's question: Has your writing ever taken you by surprise?
My answer:
I've been reading a terrific book: THE ARTIST'S WAY by Julia Cameron. The book is a 12-week program designed to help unleash your creativity. You read a chapter each week and then complete homework assignments and various exercises to help you tap into your creative power. One of the daily exercises is to hand write three pages of anything on your mind - even if it seems nonsensical. At first this was a real challenge for me, because I felt like my time could be better spent actually working on a current manuscript instead of hand writing random thoughts from my head. I quit after ten days. But then I returned and started over from the beginning, determined to fully commit and complete the program. I am now on week five, and I am learning how beneficial those morning pages are --- by hand writing the "nonsense" from my mind, I'm emptying out the garbage and worries to allow free flowing creativity to pour into my manuscript later. So, I must admit, the rewards of writing those three pages each morning has certainly taken me by surprise.
How about you? Has your writing ever taken you by surprise?
July 17, 2019
Creating an Authentic Voice for Your Novel
The concept of “voice” is an elusive one for many writers, but when you utilize techniques to develop your author’s voice, the narrative voice, and each character’s voice, your manuscript will become significantly more dynamic.
On September 18, 2019, at 7pm, I will be teaching my one-hour workshop on how to improve your author's voice at the Nampa Public Library. There is no charge to attend this event. Bring five pages of your manuscript to utilize during this hands-on process.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes on this topic:
“The author’s voice is about the chosen words, how we report the various senses, how the world we have invented becomes real.” -- Jane Yolen, Author
“A unique way of putting words together … a unique sensibility, a distinctive way of looking at the world. … Voice is a natural attribute. You no more control it than you can control the color of your eyes—nor would you want to. ... Set your voice free, set your words free … set your heart free. It is from the unknowable shadows of your subconscious that your stories will find their drive and from which they will draw their meaning. No one can loan you that or teach you that. Your voice is your self in the story.” – Donald Maass, Literary Agent
“A strong, distinctive, authoritative writing voice is something most fiction writers want—and something no editor or teacher can impart. There are, after all, no rules for writing like yourself. Voice is, however, something you can bring out in yourself.”– Browne & King, Self-Editing for Fiction Writers
“It is … the outlook, opinions, details, delivery, and original perspectives that an author brings to his tale. Above all, a singular voice is not a lucky accident; it comes from a storyteller’s commitment not just to tell a terrific story but to tell it in a way that is wholly his own.” -- Donald Maass, Literary Agent
June 28, 2019
Book Review: BLUE VALENTINES by Laura Moe
The long-awaited sequel to BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA has finally arrived! Scroll down for my complete review.
BLUE VALENTINES
by Laura Moe
July 9, 2019
Description from Publisher:
On the verge of graduating high school, with no solid plans for his future, Michael has two options. He can either remain in Rooster, Ohio and attend a local college, or accept a scholarship to a summer workshop in Seattle, where he has a chance to meet his biological father. Will he make the right choice? While he struggles with his options, Michael discovers the ties that bind him to his girlfriend Shelly may be slowly unraveling.
About the Author:
Laura Moe is a radio host and YA author. Her novel, BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA, is listed as NYPL's 50 Best Books for Teens in 2016.
My Review:
BLUE VALENTINES by Laura Moe is a captivating read from beginning to end.
The main characters from Moe's previous novel, BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA, are revisited in this newest novel. Michael and Shelly must navigate the waters of first love and the choices that must be made after high school. The characters explore new avenues that force them out of their comfort zones and discover who they want to become in the future. Change often is uncomfortable, but it also can be exciting. As one character explains to Michael, "Sometimes a man has to leave home to find himself. You're safe here. You know when you wake up today is going to be just like yesterday and tomorrow. But you don't truly value that security until you go away and face a little danger."
Michael takes the leap into the unknown, as he describes in the novel, "In the last twenty-four hours, I have contacted my unknown father, taken my first flight clear across the country, ridden a train in an enormous city, listened to poetry by a famous poet, smoked a joint with a stranger, and am about to sleep with my girlfriend in her ex-lover's bed. How messed up is my life now?"
While the novel totally captivated me from beginning to end, the lingering issue I had with the story was the amount of drinking and drugs. I thought the book could have been titled HEARTBREAK HANGOVERS. ;) But that's a personal issue of mine. Many readers could argue that experimenting with alcohol and drugs is simply a part of growing up. I disagree. I believe there are healthier and safer ways to transition into adulthood.
Michael asks himself in the novel, "Am I the architect of my misfortune?"
One of my favorite lines from the book:
"Everything grows gray, as if Shelly snatched up all the colors and took them with her."
BLUE VALENTINES by Laura Moe is a terrific tale of teens exploring their options after high school and deciding what matters to them most: love, friendship, self-discovery, family, and more.
[I received a free early copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.]
BLUE VALENTINES
by Laura Moe
July 9, 2019
Description from Publisher:
On the verge of graduating high school, with no solid plans for his future, Michael has two options. He can either remain in Rooster, Ohio and attend a local college, or accept a scholarship to a summer workshop in Seattle, where he has a chance to meet his biological father. Will he make the right choice? While he struggles with his options, Michael discovers the ties that bind him to his girlfriend Shelly may be slowly unraveling.
About the Author:
Laura Moe is a radio host and YA author. Her novel, BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA, is listed as NYPL's 50 Best Books for Teens in 2016.
My Review:
BLUE VALENTINES by Laura Moe is a captivating read from beginning to end.
The main characters from Moe's previous novel, BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA, are revisited in this newest novel. Michael and Shelly must navigate the waters of first love and the choices that must be made after high school. The characters explore new avenues that force them out of their comfort zones and discover who they want to become in the future. Change often is uncomfortable, but it also can be exciting. As one character explains to Michael, "Sometimes a man has to leave home to find himself. You're safe here. You know when you wake up today is going to be just like yesterday and tomorrow. But you don't truly value that security until you go away and face a little danger."
Michael takes the leap into the unknown, as he describes in the novel, "In the last twenty-four hours, I have contacted my unknown father, taken my first flight clear across the country, ridden a train in an enormous city, listened to poetry by a famous poet, smoked a joint with a stranger, and am about to sleep with my girlfriend in her ex-lover's bed. How messed up is my life now?"
While the novel totally captivated me from beginning to end, the lingering issue I had with the story was the amount of drinking and drugs. I thought the book could have been titled HEARTBREAK HANGOVERS. ;) But that's a personal issue of mine. Many readers could argue that experimenting with alcohol and drugs is simply a part of growing up. I disagree. I believe there are healthier and safer ways to transition into adulthood.
Michael asks himself in the novel, "Am I the architect of my misfortune?"
One of my favorite lines from the book:
"Everything grows gray, as if Shelly snatched up all the colors and took them with her."
BLUE VALENTINES by Laura Moe is a terrific tale of teens exploring their options after high school and deciding what matters to them most: love, friendship, self-discovery, family, and more.
[I received a free early copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.]
June 26, 2019
Review: PAPERLESS POST
As an avid scrapbooker, I was sad back in the day when scrapbooking went digital. I love touching paper! But now, many years later, I must admit, I've climbed on the digital scrapbooking wagon, and I'm not sure I'll ever go back to the old way . . . maybe . . . I still love touching paper!
I feel the same way about invitations, cards, and announcements. So when I was asked to review the site www.paperlesspost.com I was curious. Is it just another "e-vite" type of website? I am not a fan of digital invitations. I know nearly everyone uses them. (I do use Facebook events and Twitter announcements.) But are we losing touch with the fine art of a handwritten card or a snail-mailed announcement?
Well, after playing with and testing the Paperless Post website, I'm happy to share my review with you.
The first thing I noticed about Paperless Post was that they utilize an interesting array of well-known designers for many of their collections - such as Anthropologie, kate spade, Liberty Fabrics, Paddington, Rifle Paper, Sesame Street, Vera Wang, and many more.
Here are the additional points I noticed about Paperless Post:
1. The website is user friendly, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.
2. You can send a test card to yourself before paying for the final version to be sent out.
3. If you're interrupted, your project is automatically saved in your drafts folder.
4. Similar to E-Vite, your guests can RSVP to events and view the guest list online.
5. Paperless Post seems much classier to me than E-Vite, but that could simply be personal preference.
6. While it does cost money to use Paperless Post, their site is clean and free from third-party advertisers.
7. The cost per use is reasonable. You can purchase 25 "coins" for $10 or purchase in varying levels up to 1000 coins for $100, making it less expensive the more you purchase, and it costs about 4 coins to send a card.
8. Paperless Post is a great investment for a business that wants to send out professional-looking cards on a regular basis or a socially-active individual who is looking for a fresh design.
9. With over a 100 million users already, Paperless Post is on its way to becoming a true force in the industry.
10. The more I used Paperless Post to send out interesting greeting cards to people, the more I wanted to use it! It's fun!
Concerns:
1. Your card recipient is added to the marketing email list of Paperless Post. Your contact will have to "unsubscribe" to get off the list.
2. As a user, you are added to their marketing email list. And they send out a LOT of emails. I thought there'd be a way to update the setting in my account, but I had to click at the bottom of a promotional email in order to update my preferences. I simply unsubscribed from the promotional emails. This has not deterred me from wanting to utilize the site more.
As you can see, the pros definitely outweigh the cons.
Paperless Post is a fun and classy way to send out cards, invites, and announcements to friends and business associates. I highly recommend their easy-to-use website.
[I received free coins on the Paperless Post website in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.]
I feel the same way about invitations, cards, and announcements. So when I was asked to review the site www.paperlesspost.com I was curious. Is it just another "e-vite" type of website? I am not a fan of digital invitations. I know nearly everyone uses them. (I do use Facebook events and Twitter announcements.) But are we losing touch with the fine art of a handwritten card or a snail-mailed announcement?
Well, after playing with and testing the Paperless Post website, I'm happy to share my review with you.
The first thing I noticed about Paperless Post was that they utilize an interesting array of well-known designers for many of their collections - such as Anthropologie, kate spade, Liberty Fabrics, Paddington, Rifle Paper, Sesame Street, Vera Wang, and many more.
Here are the additional points I noticed about Paperless Post:
1. The website is user friendly, easy to navigate, and visually appealing.
2. You can send a test card to yourself before paying for the final version to be sent out.
3. If you're interrupted, your project is automatically saved in your drafts folder.
4. Similar to E-Vite, your guests can RSVP to events and view the guest list online.
5. Paperless Post seems much classier to me than E-Vite, but that could simply be personal preference.
6. While it does cost money to use Paperless Post, their site is clean and free from third-party advertisers.
7. The cost per use is reasonable. You can purchase 25 "coins" for $10 or purchase in varying levels up to 1000 coins for $100, making it less expensive the more you purchase, and it costs about 4 coins to send a card.
8. Paperless Post is a great investment for a business that wants to send out professional-looking cards on a regular basis or a socially-active individual who is looking for a fresh design.
9. With over a 100 million users already, Paperless Post is on its way to becoming a true force in the industry.
10. The more I used Paperless Post to send out interesting greeting cards to people, the more I wanted to use it! It's fun!
Concerns:
1. Your card recipient is added to the marketing email list of Paperless Post. Your contact will have to "unsubscribe" to get off the list.
2. As a user, you are added to their marketing email list. And they send out a LOT of emails. I thought there'd be a way to update the setting in my account, but I had to click at the bottom of a promotional email in order to update my preferences. I simply unsubscribed from the promotional emails. This has not deterred me from wanting to utilize the site more.
As you can see, the pros definitely outweigh the cons.
Paperless Post is a fun and classy way to send out cards, invites, and announcements to friends and business associates. I highly recommend their easy-to-use website.
[I received free coins on the Paperless Post website in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.]
June 6, 2019
Book Review: STORM AND FURY by Jennifer L. Armentrout
When I was given the opportunity to read an early copy of STORM AND FURY by bestselling author, Jennifer L. Armentrout, I jumped at it! Scroll on down for my complete review.
STORM AND FURY
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
June 11, 2019 - Inkyard Press
ISBN: 978-1335218797
Description from the Publisher
Eighteen-year-old Trinity Marrow may be going blind, but she can see and communicate with ghosts and spirits. Her unique gift is part of a secret so dangerous that she’s been in hiding for years in an isolated compound fiercely guarded by Wardens—gargoyle shape-shifters who protect humankind from demons. If the demons discover the truth about Trinity, they’ll devour her, flesh and bone, to enhance their own powers.
When Wardens from another clan arrive with disturbing reports that something out there is killing both demons and Wardens, Trinity’s safe world implodes. Not the least because one of the outsiders is the most annoying and fascinating person she’s ever met. Zayne has secrets of his own that will upend her world yet again—but working together becomes imperative once demons breach the compound and Trinity’s secret comes to light. To save her family and maybe the world, she’ll have to put her trust in Zayne. But all bets are off as a supernatural war is unleashed…
About the Author
# 1 New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia with her husband and her Jack Russell, Loki. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She also writes adult romance under the name J. Lynn. Find her on Twitter @JLArmentrout or become a fan on Facebook and Goodreads.
My Review
In STORM AND FURY, Jennifer L. Armentrout has created dynamic characters, steamy romance scenes, and unexpected plot twists.
Armentrout is a fabulous story teller, and I loved STORM AND FURY. I especially enjoyed the secondary characters - specifically Zayne. The main character, Trinity, seemed a bit scattered and inconsistent, but Zayne was well developed and fun to follow. This was the first book I've read by Armentrout, and I didn't realize beforehand that this was a spin-off from another series. Without having read any of her other books, I was still able to fully follow the plot and characters in this story. And now . . . I want to go and read the other series!
Additionally, even though STORM AND FURY is the first book in a new series, the plot was wrapped up beautifully, and I look forward to the next book.
Some of my favorite lines from the book:
"I wasn't part-Warden, either, and they were like real-life superheroes, hunting down the bad guys, if superheroes were, well, gargoyles."
"Isn't that evil's greatest achievement? It often hides itself in innocence?"
"My iron blade clattered onto the driveway, settling in a pile of demon dust."
[I received a free advanced copy from the publisher via Net Galley, which in no way influenced my opinion.]
STORM AND FURYby Jennifer L. Armentrout
June 11, 2019 - Inkyard Press
ISBN: 978-1335218797
Description from the Publisher
Eighteen-year-old Trinity Marrow may be going blind, but she can see and communicate with ghosts and spirits. Her unique gift is part of a secret so dangerous that she’s been in hiding for years in an isolated compound fiercely guarded by Wardens—gargoyle shape-shifters who protect humankind from demons. If the demons discover the truth about Trinity, they’ll devour her, flesh and bone, to enhance their own powers.
When Wardens from another clan arrive with disturbing reports that something out there is killing both demons and Wardens, Trinity’s safe world implodes. Not the least because one of the outsiders is the most annoying and fascinating person she’s ever met. Zayne has secrets of his own that will upend her world yet again—but working together becomes imperative once demons breach the compound and Trinity’s secret comes to light. To save her family and maybe the world, she’ll have to put her trust in Zayne. But all bets are off as a supernatural war is unleashed…
About the Author
# 1 New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia with her husband and her Jack Russell, Loki. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She also writes adult romance under the name J. Lynn. Find her on Twitter @JLArmentrout or become a fan on Facebook and Goodreads.
My Review
In STORM AND FURY, Jennifer L. Armentrout has created dynamic characters, steamy romance scenes, and unexpected plot twists.
Armentrout is a fabulous story teller, and I loved STORM AND FURY. I especially enjoyed the secondary characters - specifically Zayne. The main character, Trinity, seemed a bit scattered and inconsistent, but Zayne was well developed and fun to follow. This was the first book I've read by Armentrout, and I didn't realize beforehand that this was a spin-off from another series. Without having read any of her other books, I was still able to fully follow the plot and characters in this story. And now . . . I want to go and read the other series!
Additionally, even though STORM AND FURY is the first book in a new series, the plot was wrapped up beautifully, and I look forward to the next book.
Some of my favorite lines from the book:
"I wasn't part-Warden, either, and they were like real-life superheroes, hunting down the bad guys, if superheroes were, well, gargoyles."
"Isn't that evil's greatest achievement? It often hides itself in innocence?"
"My iron blade clattered onto the driveway, settling in a pile of demon dust."
[I received a free advanced copy from the publisher via Net Galley, which in no way influenced my opinion.]
June 5, 2019
IWSG: What's Your Favorite Genre?
The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time - and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
This month's question: Of all the genres you read and write, which is your favorite to write in and why?
My answer: I love writing edge-of-your-seat mysteries and thrillers. My goal as a writer is to have readers say, "I finished the book in one sitting." I want readers to feel so compelled to turn the page that they are unable to put the book down. And ... if they must put it down, because of work or school or other obligations, then I want the story to linger in their minds, pushing them to get back to the pages.
How about you? What's your favorite genre (to write and/or to read)?
This month's question: Of all the genres you read and write, which is your favorite to write in and why?
My answer: I love writing edge-of-your-seat mysteries and thrillers. My goal as a writer is to have readers say, "I finished the book in one sitting." I want readers to feel so compelled to turn the page that they are unable to put the book down. And ... if they must put it down, because of work or school or other obligations, then I want the story to linger in their minds, pushing them to get back to the pages.
How about you? What's your favorite genre (to write and/or to read)?
June 4, 2019
Writer CEO One-Day Workshop in Boise, Idaho
When Colleen M. Story (Author, Speaker, Health & Wellness Writer) asked me to share information about her upcoming workshop - I said, "Of course!" Because if you've ever visited her site Writing and Wellness, you already know she shares a wealth of information!
Discover the Secrets of a Successful Author Business at the New Writer CEO One-Day Workshop!
Writer CEO, a website dedicated to working writers and authors, is holding a one-day writing workshop on September 14, 2019, in downtown Boise, Idaho.
In one action-packed day, writers will learn effective book-marketing strategies and author businesses branding techniques. They’ll also discover:
· tips for avoiding burnout and overwhelm
· new processes for determining when to take important business risks
· how to better manage cash flow
· strength-based approaches to building a thriving author platform
· mindsets necessary for a professional author
· how to stabilize your business in a fluctuating industry
The event will feature workshops, giveaways, and networking opportunities. Writers of all levels and genres are invited, though the workshop will be most useful for those interested in getting their work noticed, boosting sales, enhancing organization, improving self-management, and supercharging their results.
Instructors Colleen M. Story and Donna Cook are both professional writers who bring to the table decades of experience in writing and writing-related businesses. After overcoming their own challenges in publishing and marketing, they wanted to share what they’ve learned with other authors, in the hopes of making their journeys a little easier.
“I spent years floundering around unsure how to get my writing business off the ground,” Story said. “I was doing well writing for others, but I wanted to create a business with my own projects, and there was little information available to help me do that. In this workshop, Donna and I won’t be teaching writers how to write—we’ll be helping them get their writing noticed, improve their marketing, find more readers and/or clients, and become the true creative business owners they need to be to succeed in this industry.”
“All I ever wanted to do is write,” Cook added, “but I soon realized I needed to master the business side of what I was doing if I wanted my writing to sell. That meant learning how to market in a way that worked for me, setting up systems that would help me streamline the tasks associated with marketing and publishing, and discovering the mindsets I needed to improve my chances of success. I’m eager to share what I’ve learned with other writers, because I know they make a huge difference.”
The workshop takes place on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Hampton Inn & Suites in downtown Boise, followed by an optional post-workshop gathering over cocktails. The cost is $75 per person. For more information or to sign up now, see the Writer CEO workshop page.
Discover the Secrets of a Successful Author Business at the New Writer CEO One-Day Workshop!
Writer CEO, a website dedicated to working writers and authors, is holding a one-day writing workshop on September 14, 2019, in downtown Boise, Idaho.
In one action-packed day, writers will learn effective book-marketing strategies and author businesses branding techniques. They’ll also discover:
· tips for avoiding burnout and overwhelm
· new processes for determining when to take important business risks
· how to better manage cash flow
· strength-based approaches to building a thriving author platform
· mindsets necessary for a professional author
· how to stabilize your business in a fluctuating industry
The event will feature workshops, giveaways, and networking opportunities. Writers of all levels and genres are invited, though the workshop will be most useful for those interested in getting their work noticed, boosting sales, enhancing organization, improving self-management, and supercharging their results.
Instructors Colleen M. Story and Donna Cook are both professional writers who bring to the table decades of experience in writing and writing-related businesses. After overcoming their own challenges in publishing and marketing, they wanted to share what they’ve learned with other authors, in the hopes of making their journeys a little easier.
“I spent years floundering around unsure how to get my writing business off the ground,” Story said. “I was doing well writing for others, but I wanted to create a business with my own projects, and there was little information available to help me do that. In this workshop, Donna and I won’t be teaching writers how to write—we’ll be helping them get their writing noticed, improve their marketing, find more readers and/or clients, and become the true creative business owners they need to be to succeed in this industry.”
“All I ever wanted to do is write,” Cook added, “but I soon realized I needed to master the business side of what I was doing if I wanted my writing to sell. That meant learning how to market in a way that worked for me, setting up systems that would help me streamline the tasks associated with marketing and publishing, and discovering the mindsets I needed to improve my chances of success. I’m eager to share what I’ve learned with other writers, because I know they make a huge difference.”
The workshop takes place on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Hampton Inn & Suites in downtown Boise, followed by an optional post-workshop gathering over cocktails. The cost is $75 per person. For more information or to sign up now, see the Writer CEO workshop page.
May 17, 2019
Gone Camping!
I'm off to my happy place. If you need me . . . well . . . come find me. ;)
May 15, 2019
Coaching & Editorial Prices
While writing novels remains my primary focus, I'm often asked if I offer coaching and editorial services. Yes, I do. Details are below. Feel free to email me at margokelly1 @ outlook . com (without the spaces) to ask additional questions and make arrangements to propel your manuscript to the next level.
One-on-One Coaching :: $100 per hour
In person, online, or over the phone, we’ll discuss where you are on your writer’s journey and where you’d like to be. After clearly defining your goals, I’ll offer step-by-step guidelines for you to achieve them.
Query Critique :: $35
Once your manuscript is polished and you’re ready to seek an agent, I’ll review your query letter and offer suggestions to catch the interest of literary agents. This package includes a second evaluation after you’ve made changes.
Synopsis Analysis :: $120
Many agents and editors require a synopsis with your manuscript submission. I’ll point you in the right direction before you begin, and then I’ll critique your finished synopsis (up to four single-spaced pages).
Submission Package :: $250
This evaluation includes thorough line-edits of your entire submission package, including your query letter, synopsis, and the first 30 pages of your manuscript.
First 100 Page Assessment :: $350
If you’re not certain about your manuscript or its potential, having your first 100 pages critiqued may help give you the direction you need. I’ll provide a detailed line-by-line edit, pointing out grammar and punctuation issues as well as addressing big-picture ideas regarding character, plot, and setting. (I require standard formatting of your pages, including double-spacing and 12-point font.)
Reader Report :: $750
I’ll read your entire manuscript and provide at least a two-page written evaluation of your overarching ideas, including characters, plot, setting, voice, and theme. This package does not include a line-edit, but it does include a one-on-one coaching appointment.
Full Manuscript Edit (up to 85,000 words) :: $1,000
With this comprehensive service, I’ll read your entire manuscript, providing line-edits and an editorial letter addressing the big-picture ideas. This package also includes a one-on-one appointment to discuss my feedback. (Manuscripts over 85,000 words will be charged at $0.013 per word.)
Complete Package :: $2,500
Starting with a Reader Report*, I’ll offer an evaluation of your overarching ideas and discuss next steps in a one-on-one coaching appointment. Then after you’ve revised your manuscript, I’ll provide a Full Manuscript Edit* along with a second coaching appointment. Finally, after you’ve polished your manuscript, I’ll evaluate your Submission Package* before you query agents and editors. (*Read descriptions above for what’s included.)
One-on-One Coaching :: $100 per hour
In person, online, or over the phone, we’ll discuss where you are on your writer’s journey and where you’d like to be. After clearly defining your goals, I’ll offer step-by-step guidelines for you to achieve them.
Query Critique :: $35
Once your manuscript is polished and you’re ready to seek an agent, I’ll review your query letter and offer suggestions to catch the interest of literary agents. This package includes a second evaluation after you’ve made changes.
Synopsis Analysis :: $120
Many agents and editors require a synopsis with your manuscript submission. I’ll point you in the right direction before you begin, and then I’ll critique your finished synopsis (up to four single-spaced pages).
Submission Package :: $250
This evaluation includes thorough line-edits of your entire submission package, including your query letter, synopsis, and the first 30 pages of your manuscript.
First 100 Page Assessment :: $350
If you’re not certain about your manuscript or its potential, having your first 100 pages critiqued may help give you the direction you need. I’ll provide a detailed line-by-line edit, pointing out grammar and punctuation issues as well as addressing big-picture ideas regarding character, plot, and setting. (I require standard formatting of your pages, including double-spacing and 12-point font.)
Reader Report :: $750
I’ll read your entire manuscript and provide at least a two-page written evaluation of your overarching ideas, including characters, plot, setting, voice, and theme. This package does not include a line-edit, but it does include a one-on-one coaching appointment.
Full Manuscript Edit (up to 85,000 words) :: $1,000
With this comprehensive service, I’ll read your entire manuscript, providing line-edits and an editorial letter addressing the big-picture ideas. This package also includes a one-on-one appointment to discuss my feedback. (Manuscripts over 85,000 words will be charged at $0.013 per word.)
Complete Package :: $2,500
Starting with a Reader Report*, I’ll offer an evaluation of your overarching ideas and discuss next steps in a one-on-one coaching appointment. Then after you’ve revised your manuscript, I’ll provide a Full Manuscript Edit* along with a second coaching appointment. Finally, after you’ve polished your manuscript, I’ll evaluate your Submission Package* before you query agents and editors. (*Read descriptions above for what’s included.)
