What is a manuscript assessment? 

A manuscript assessment looks at the structure, style and content of a piece of writing. It is similar to a structural, or 'substantive' edit. It examines whether the writing is working, and where it could be improved. It is a proper, thorough and detailed critique. Things it addresses in detail include plotting and pace, character development, point-of-view, narrative voice and consistency, writing style, use of dialogue, effective description.   

What is it not? 

A manuscript assessment is not the same as copy-editing or proof reading, which is a line-by-line service which gets your every sentence correct. A manuscript assessment is more about giving you a big picture overview that enables you to polish things overall. 

Why have a manuscript assessment done? 

An assessment gives you an objective view from a writing professional, and specific feedback. It is sometimes difficult to see the wood from the trees when you have been working on a piece closely. An assessment enables you to go back to your work with fresh perspective and some ideas on how to lift it to the next level. It should enable you to rewrite, and produce further drafts which are more polished, and reader-ready. It can be useful regardless of your ultimate goal: whether you are writing for family, or with the aim of self-publishing, or approaching mainstream publishers.  

Services provided, and costs 

Specialising in manuscript assessment for writers of the following: 
  • Fiction; includes short stories and the first two or three chapters of longer fictional works   
  • Nonfiction, including personal essay, journalism, memoir, autobiography and biography, nature writing  
Services are not provided in the genres of fantasy, horror, erotica, academic work or politics. 

Cost 

  • Manuscript assessment for up to 3,000 words:   $150 
  • ​Manuscript assessment for up to 5,000 words:   $180 
If your manuscript is a little over this word count, please get in touch anyway. 
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Testimonial 
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Most writers wonder if we’re good enough – if we have the goods. We long for feedback and honest comments. Not just ‘lovely writing’ comments from friends or family. 

Fiona read the first two chapters of my debut book, providing me with feedback about structure, dialogue, POV, exposition and chapter headings. I received an easy to read two-page report full of suggestions and strategies which, when put into play, immediately made my pages more authentic and readable. 

Fiona also provided clear and concise comments in her line by line edit of my work. Really practical thoughts and suggestions. She honed in on the areas I had been unsure of and provided positive and encouraging comments about all the bits I loved best! 

​It's not only my first two chapters that have benefited from Fiona’s confident and skilled gaze. I will keep her printed report – highlighted with her best bits, beside my laptop for further reference.
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Rhonda McCoy 
Fiona Stocker has written professionally for many years, in many capacities. She has written, edited and consulted on other people's writing as an advertising copywriter, and in the corporate sector.  Since moving to Tasmania in 2006, she has produced a history of farming women commissioned by Tasmanian Women in Agriculture, and her nonfiction memoir Apple Island Wife was published in 2018 by Unbound. She has produced other commissioned works for clients as a writer, ghost writer and editor. She was a judge in the 2016 annual Tasmanian Short Story Competition. 
Fiona is enrolled in the Master of Arts in Writing & Literature at Deakin University where her workshop critiques are sought-after. Her work consistently ranks with High Distinction. 

How to book a manuscript assessment 

Please complete the form below. You will receive confirmation of an assessment slot (assessments are delivered within two weeks, where possible), and directions on submitting your work by email and making payment. 
Please read the Terms & Conditions before submitting.