wendy coop

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.