Filter Testimonials
Elevates Query with Targeted Advice
Samantha did a live videoconference, which was very helpful in connecting with her as well as interpreting her feedback to my work. She had prepared feedback and questions concerning my work to help enhance the overall query letter. In answering her questions, she listened to me tell my high-end story verbally to provide helpful feedback to better elevate my synopsis and pitch. She spent extra time to make sure I had the right focus and answered questions I had. She made the overhaul of my query letter easier. BEST Manuscript Academy meeting I have had!
Margaret Izard
March 24, 2025
Sharpens Query with Direct Feedback
Stephanie was very professional and straight to the point which I very much appreciated. She provided important feedback which I incorporated into my Query Letter immediately. Fingers crossed it brings me positive results!
Pam Wells
March 24, 2025
Challenges Core Concept Effectively
On the sliding scale of 1 to 10 as to how how frank I wanted the agent to be, I chose 9, because I thought it would be most helpful. The questions Eric had about the core concept of my novel were challenging, but I think that the manuscript and query will be much stronger once I figure out how to address them. He also had a great suggestion for how to describe the genre I am writing in.
Kristana Arp
March 24, 2025
Balances Encouragement and Tough Feedback
When you get an email from Eric Smith, his email address is Ericsmithrocks @ [whatever]. As it turns out, Erik Smith really does rock. I’ve had experiences now with a great number of Manuscript Academy faculty. I know that this writing business ain’t easy. Sometimes we get feedback that feels good. Sometimes we get feedback that makes us want to drop everything and run naked into the hills. At a time when I felt vulnerable and ready to run naked, Eric settled my heart and spirit in a way that I haven’t experienced very often. Maybe it’s because my manuscript is just so awesome. More likely, it’s because Eric is. He is great at balancing the positive and the notñso in a way that is not only soothing, but motivates you to want to do better. I can’t say enough about him after only a few minutes with him on the phone. Indeed, Eric Smith rocks.
Jason Luban
March 24, 2025
Strengthens Query with Thoughtful Edits
Caitlin showed me several ways to make my letter much stronger. She was kind, thoughtful, and patient with all my questions. I really wish I had consulted with her months ago. I am in a much better place now going into the query process.
James Parsons
March 24, 2025
Reveals Lost Story Authenticity
Stefanie was greató very professional, well-prepared, insightful and also kind. I very much appreciated her thoughtful comments. I am working on revisions and her comments helped me realize that I’ve lost my way ó I’ve been working too hard to make this book “fit” a standard formula and have lost some of the beauty of the language and the authenticity of my protagonist in the balance. Yikes! Quite a wake up calló but I needed that, and her comments will be very helpful as I try to recapture the heart of my story.
Thanks to all of you at the Manuscript Academy for making these sorts of opportunities available!
Billie Little
Billie Little
March 24, 2025
Pinpoints Manuscript Weaknesses Clearly
Amy was so wonderful to work with. She focused directly on spots in my first 30 pages that need improvement and gave good suggestions. Very pleasant and friendly.
Kristana Arp
March 24, 2025
Guides Query with Insightful Notes
First off, there was a glitch (which could have been my user error) with the time I chose. Jessica, Julie and Amy could not have been more helpful in straightening it out and making sure the consultation happened at a time that worked for my schedule.
My consultation with Amy Bishop was incredibly helpful. I was so nervous, but she put me at ease right away. Her comments were insightful and answered the questions I had ready before I had a chance to ask them!
She gave me some suggestions that can only make my first pages and query stronger.
I can’t express how much I appreciate the time and attention she gave my pages and our consultation.
Highly recommend the experience and Amy’s insight.
Nancie Abuhaidar
March 24, 2025
Refines Query with Clear Focus
My 10-minute query consultation with Jessica was invaluable. She was well prepared with detailed advice that gave my query a lot more punch and focus. She talked through each paragraph, culling ineffective details and centering the heart of the story. Jessica was direct and honest, but also extremely encouraging and motivating!
Anne Gretchen Beyer
March 24, 2025
Pinpoints Where Agents Stop Reading
My meeting with Caitlin was extremely helpful. When you query you get so many vague responsesó it didnít grab me, not for me, etc. Caitlin told me the exact place in my first ten pages where she would decide to pass on the manuscript.
Now I have concrete feedback about what to leave out and what to add. My rewrite is much better, I think.
Kristana Arp
March 24, 2025
Tweaks Query and Strengthens Comps
Esther was so helpful. She tweaked my query and made great suggestions about comps. I learned a lot in just 10 minutes!
Suzanne Diffine
March 24, 2025
Provides Specific Manuscript Adjustments
Linda gave me specific suggestions and encouraging remarks. I am LONGING for spring break (I am a high school English teacher) so I can make some adjustments to my manuscript and query. I’m going back to the mat! (In the photo, I’m the one on the left.)
Susan Pomerantz
March 24, 2025