Manuscript Critiques

Manuscript Critique Service

Having a second set of eyes on a work-in-progress is so important; it’s why professional writers have many editors, after all. Critique groups are incredibly helpful, but over time it can be hard for critique buddies to be objective. Before I was published, I used critique services myself and found them to be enormously helpful. I hope you will feel the same!

A little bit about my style – I’m very honest and direct when it comes to critiquing, which is the same tack my agent and editors take with me. Their goal is to help me write the best story I can. My goal is to do the same for your project. I’ll look at your work as both an author who’s been through the editing process and as a voracious reader who loves a good story. I tackle all genres from middle grade to adult, as well as queries/synopses.

Contact me at shazwriter@me.com to get started or to answer any questions you have. I look forward to working together!

What you’ll receive:

Manuscripts:

An overall impression of your story, including feedback on character, pacing, description, plot, showing versus telling, scene structure, etc., and other issues you want me to focus on. You’ll receive your manuscript with my comments in Microsoft Word track changes, and your choice of a written summary or a thirty-minute Skype or phone consultation.

Queries:

Help with focusing your pitch and tightening word count.  You’ll receive your choice of a written summary or a 30-minute Skype or phone consultation.

Consultations and mentoring:

Ask me anything!  I’m available for mentoring and to answer questions such as how to get published, showing versus telling, creating memorable characters, organizing edits, behind-the-scenes in publishing, and more.

Cost

I charge $2.50 per page (50 page minimum) for manuscripts and $60 for a query. Skype/phone consultations are $50 per hour (one hour minimum).

Submit your manuscripts in Word (.doc or .docx) and explain your goals for your manuscript. Also, tell me a bit about yourself.

Manuscripts must be double-spaced, queries single-spaced, written in 12-point font size, in Cambria, Courier, Arial, or Times New Roman. Margins must be 1 inch on the top and bottom and 1½ inch on each side.

Testimonials

“Sharon Biggs Waller is one of the most talented and hard-working writers I know. She is a superlative editor, with an inspiring grasp of story, pacing, character development, and detail. And perhaps most importantly, she is an absolute joy to work with.” John M. Cusick, agent at Folio Jr./Folio Literary, and author of CHERRY, MONEY, BABY and GIRL PARTS.

“Sharon and I have worked together for over a decade. She has an eagle eye when it comes to critiquing. Her style is very forward – she’ll let you know where she sees weakness in your story and clearly explain how to improve it. She is exactly what you want in a critiquer. You will not find a more passionate and talented author than Sharon Biggs Waller.” Katie Mitschelen, represented by Alyssa Henkin of Trident Media Group and author of INDIANA, MY STATE series.

Credentials

2017 Recipient of the Friends of American Writers Literature Award

New York Public Library List of Feminist YA Fiction

Bank Street College of Education’s Best Book of 2016

Amelia Bloomer List

American Library Association Best Fiction for Young Adults

Jr. Library Guild Selection

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