For over a decade, I’ve been providing thoughtful, in-depth, and solution-focused manuscript critiques for fiction and creative nonfiction writers. My background includes a BA and an MFA in creative writing, a stint as the organizer of an independent biweekly writers’ group (Denver Writers’ Workshop), and 10+ years as the managing editor of an established literary journal (StoryQuarterly). All these experiences have helped me understand what makes a good story tick. I’ve worked with many different styles and genres of fiction, ranging from fantasy to mystery to sci-fi to literary fiction, as well as memoir/memoir-in-essays.
I’m running a SPECIAL OFFER ON NOVEL/CNF CRITIQUES for projects booked in November/December 2025 and scheduled for December 2025 or January 2026. This is tailored for early-stage manuscripts, so it makes the perfect follow-up to a November novel challenge (NovNov, NovelEmber, Novel Sprint, Novel 90, NaNoWriMo 2.0, etc.).
This basic novel critique package includes:
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Thorough feedback letter (750-1,200 words) discussing what I think is working well, what can be improved and how, and what to focus on in the next draft. I consider plot/structure, character development, point of view, writing style, and thematics. This feedback letter is on the level of what students in an MFA thesis workshop expect to receive from their peers.
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Light markup with marginal comments on the manuscript (at least 6-10 comments) connected to my written feedback or pointing out other developmental, continuity, or stylistic issues.
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Follow-up email exchange to address any questions you might have about the feedback or talk through your revision plans.
Pricing: $100 for any manuscript 40k-80k words. $10 additional for every 10k additional words.
Availability is limited! Contact me to book your project.
A couple of additional notes:
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In my feedback, I’m happy to address any specific questions you might have about your project. Just let me know during our initial correspondence.
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Manuscript critiques do not include copyediting, line editing, or proofreading for errors. I do offer these as separate services.
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Short-story critiques, short-form CNF critiques, and in-depth developmental editing are also available. Please inquire for details.
Stephanie Manuzak is an editor of the highest caliber. She provided copy editing plus manuscript critique for two of my novels, which subsequently sold to a traditional publisher. Her insights into story structure and writing craft are gentle, honest, and right on target. Her technical knowledge and eye for detail are superb.
—Jennifer Kincheloe, Colorado Gold Award winner, Mystery and Mayhem Award winner, author of THE SECRET LIFE OF ANNA BLANC, THE WOMAN IN THE CAMPHOR TRUNK, and THE BODY IN GRIFFITH PARK.