Feedback And Reviews

Hear from writers–just like you–who’ve worked with our agents, editors, authors, and experts.

We’re here to support you every step of the way.

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Sharp query editor

Enjoyed my 15-minute Query/First Ten Pages review session with Alice Speilburg. Alice was very insightful and supportive. Cut through a lot of the problems I’ve had, especially with my query. I’m in much better shape because of it. Would highly recommend.

Tom Keefe
May 13, 2025

Excellent!

Excellent!

Renee was kind, professional, knowledgeable and on-target.

Worth every penny.

Thanks!

Ed Smallwood, PhD
May 13, 2025

Excellent feedback!

This was one of the best consultations/critiques I’ve had with Manuscript Academy. While I enjoy the face-to-face consultations, I found this written critique to be the most useful so far. Ms. Fountain provided me with great insight into areas I can improve my writing style, the flow of my novel, and create a more engaging storyline. Having notes and concrete examples to review is extremely helpful. I would (and most likely will!) book another critique with Ms. Fountain.

Liz
May 13, 2025

Clear direction…

The consultation was very helpful and I now have a concrete plan for my manuscript.

Melissa Boyd
May 13, 2025

A Wayfinding Star

Ivan provided clear, actionable ways I could improve my query and first page, while being kind and encouraging. Writing can feel like you’re adrift in the dark on an endless ocean. Unsure if you’re paddling in the right direction, going in circles, pursued by pirates, driving right into a storm… Even in a short 10-minute meeting, Ivan provided valuable feedback that gave me grounding and orientation toward my goal. Definitely recommend a consultation with Ivan.

Bree A Cox
May 13, 2025

Approachable and helpful

Anjanette’s comments on my ten pages were clear and made a lot of sense, and, in some cases, eye-opening. She was also patient with my questions and open to explaining a lot to me.

Karen Janowsky
May 13, 2025

Fantastic Feedback!

Ivan Taurisano is very personable and easy to talk which set a fun tone for the critique. His spot-on advice and feedback made my query letter and first ten pages even snappier and more engaging. I highly recommend a Manuscript Academy consultation with Ivan!

K. R. Raye
May 13, 2025

Extremely useful advice

Christina is a helpful, very knowledgeable resource. I met with her for 15 minutes to discuss a query/pitch and the first pages of my manuscript, which I had to pitch live a few days after the meeting. She listened carefully to what I needed and gave me clear, spot-on advice. When our time was up, I felt much more prepared. I will definitely seek her out next time I need help!

Karen Janowsky
May 13, 2025

Ivan was businesslike but relaxed. He had read my manuscript carefully, and his suggestions were helpful. I would be happy to work with him again.

Sharon Elwell
May 13, 2025

Query Questions

Last week I had a 10 minute review of my query letter with Bridget Smith. She was pleasant, kind, funny, and most of all very helpful. The time goes super fast and she packed a lot of great tips into it. She told me what not to change, what wasn’t needed, and what to beef up a bit. Though we only talked about my query letter, her comments have me thinking of ways to better my pitch and synopsis as well. Very happy with how it went. Thanks, Bridget.

Bill Bibo
May 13, 2025

From “Okay” to Outstanding!

Emma gave me an amazing written critique on the first 50 pages of my vampire/witch romantacy. She gave me suggestions and shared her insight to improve every page, and to take the pages to the next level! I can’t thank her enough for her kind words and helpful comments. I highly recommend Emma for her talent and real interest in my project.

Sharron Riddle
May 13, 2025

5 star experience

It’s my first time seeking out critique from industry in preparation for stepping into the query trenches so I had the typical apprehension of stepping into the unknown. There are so many avenues for aspiring authors to shell out money for services, unregulated and no guarantee of outcome value.
Fortunately, the critique feedback I received was satisfactory beyond my uneducated expectations. It was encouraging, thorough, and most importantly, actionable.

Tokan Crown
April 25, 2025
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