Filter Testimonials
Guidance for Speaking to Agents
Jessica was fabulous. She told me exactly what I needed to hear about my query, asked me enough questions, and ultimately I ended up answering my own questions with her line of thought. It felt like a thorough first meeting, personal, and a great way to learn to speak to agents if youíve never done it.
Justin Parenre
March 24, 2025
Uncovering What Makes Stories Shine
I can’t shout to the rooftops enough about Melissa. This is the third manuscript I’ve had her review, and each time her feedback is exceptional. Her reviews are poignant but also kind, and she’s always able to find that little nugget that makes your story truly shine!
Brooke Hartman
March 24, 2025
Big Picture Querying Strategy
Cecilia Lyra gave me more in 10 minutes than a paid editor did for the full manuscript explaining why she didnít think the manuscript was being picked up despite a number of full requests. She was able to give concrete big picture suggestions to how to ìmanipulateî the novel if Inwas so inclined to perhaps position it better in the market as well as advice as to how to determine whether to pivot and focus on my second completed manuscript for querying. I was really surprised by how much I got out of 10 minutes.
Jennifer Harris
March 24, 2025
Pinpointing Key Story Weaknesses
Cecilia was GREAT. She pointed out something very significant which I hadnít been able to quite articulate myself but she said it, I said ìsheís absolutely right!î
Andrew Lee
March 24, 2025
Kidlit Knowledge with Humor
Wow. My ten minutes with John was a great investment in my writing career. He answered my questions honestly, thoroughly, and genuinely. His kidlit knowledge, combined with his humor and approachable style made the experience feel like I was talking to an old friend who happened to be an industry expert. My ten minutes flew by, but the positive impression he left is timeless. Much appreciated.
Judy McSweeney
March 24, 2025
Constructive Criticism with Extra Care
I met with Samantha. She was really kind, but had specific constructive criticism (on a line level) and was generous enough to go a few minutes over to answer my questions.
Jennifer Harris
March 24, 2025
Prepared, Friendly, and Insightful
Kayla was well prepared and friendly. She respected our time while providing helpful insights for my query letter.
Kim Lemaire
March 24, 2025
Kind and Professional Query Guidance
Caitlin was professional and kind. Her feedback on my query was insightful and helpful.
Kim Lemaire
March 24, 2025
Specific and Actionable Query Advice
Jessica was specific and thorough with our ten minutes. She gave me feedback that I can use to immediately improve my query letter, plus she gave me feedback about my bookís word count. (Itís on the long side and will likely be a red flag when itís time to query. Jessica provided a suggestion on where I need to aim for in that area.) Overall, it was efficient and a worthwhile investment. After I incorporate her feedback, I plan to book a second session with Jessica. I appreciate Manuscript Academy for providing these opportunities for new writers. It can feel isolating to do this work alone. Collaboration makes for a higher quality product and a more confident writer.
Jamie Snead
March 24, 2025
Helpful Feedback on Logline Writing
Megan was kind enough to review several loglines I had, a request a little out of the usual format. She identified a few things she would like different, which was very helpful.
Wendy Brandts
March 24, 2025
Fixing Character Faults and Depth
Stephanie was personable and sweet during our conversation. She helped me realize some faults in my characters and suggested resources that could help me fix them.
Tobie Carter
March 24, 2025
Thoughtful Feedback on Query Alignment
Alyssa was courteous and positive. She gave me great feedback and lots to think about regarding my query and how it relates to my manuscript. I really enjoyed our conversation.
Sara Leach
March 24, 2025