Get your manuscript critiqued by a fellow author + MFA candidate.

Hi, I’m Wendy! I’m a writer + editor.
I write cozy mysteries with amateur female sleuths, edit + critique manuscripts for new authors, and I am completing an MFA in Creative Writing.
Manuscript Critique Service
The deets…
(what you need to know before you book)
Manuscript critique (double-spaced, up to 80k words): $0.01/word; $0.02/word past 80k up to 100k words
This is for an in-depth evaluation of your manuscript.
The manuscript critique gives thorough feedback on your story, including in-line comments on plot, characterization, pacing, and other craft elements.
What You Get:
In-line comments: These will be in your document with developmental feedback on plot development, characters, story pacing, consistency issues, plot holes & more.
A 5+ page editor’s letter: This will discuss your novel’s areas for improvement and address questions regarding plot, character, story structure, setting, and more.
Private podcast review of your manuscript: Your feedback is recorded into a private podcast episode for easy listening and for your ears only.
Access to my client-only private podcast: This podcast is for past/present/future clients for ongoing editing support. Think of it like an editor-in-your-pocket.
Personalized feedback: To make sure my feedback is as helpful as possible, I’ll provide a pre-critique questionnaire where you can ask me specific questions about pain points and request focused attention on areas you’re concerned about.
Line Level Add-On (+ $0.005 per word): Line level feedback on word choice, awkward sentences, clunky descriptions, cliches, inconsistencies in character voice, and other items.
Other important deets…
Advanced Bookings: I am accepting advanced bookings for the remainder of 2025! I only take manuscripts by appointment. This also locks in my current rate and gives you a deadline to get your draft done!
Genres Accepted: I am open to the following genres: mystery/thriller, comedy/humor, Christian/religious, contemporary, romance, and non-fiction. I do NOT accept poetry, fantasy, sci-fi, erotica, or novels with intense/dark themes. It’s okay if your work has multiple genres as long as they are not the genres I do not edit. If you’re unsure, please ask!
GenAI Policy: I will NOT work on any manuscripts that are AI-generated or partially AI-generated. If you have questions about this policy, my inbox is open to questions.
Payment Structure: A 50% deposit is due at the time of booking, with the remaining 50% due when you send the manuscript for feedback. You will receive your invoice via email.
Payments Methods: I bill through invoice which allows you to pay via credit/debit card or PayPal. I am can also work out payment plans if you need one. I do NOT use Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp.
Cancellations or Rescheduling: These must be done 30+ calendar days in advance.
Turnaround Time: I am currently offering a 14 calendar-day turnaround for most projects. Rush jobs will incur a $100 fee and are returned within 7 calendar days.
Inbox Access: If you have follow-up questions after I deliver your critique, feel free to email me with any further questions prompted by the feedback. My inbox is open to you for 30 days after the critique end date.
Manuscript Delivery: Manuscripts are accepted as Google Docs or Microsoft Word files (must be saved and submitted as a .docx file), and must meet formatting standards (12 pt, Times New Roman, and double-spaced)
Questions? Do you have additional questions about my service? Please reach out to me via email at wendy@wendycoop.com and I’d be happy to answer you!
Let’s work together.
Interested in a manuscript critique? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly! I can't wait to hear from you!
Current WIP: Dead Air
A murdered podcaster. A money trail. Someone’s show ends here.
Perfect for fans of Finlay Donovan Is Killing It and The Thursday Murder Club.