Filter Testimonials
Invaluable insight into the current state of the industry and helpful tips on how to continue pursuing a writing career
I’m thankful for the time I got to spend with Kayla Lightner on the consultation service. She had clearly read and considered the pages sent in advance and presented concise and specific feedback on my work. I was also able to ask questions about the querying and publishing process, and Kayla gave invaluable insight into the current state of the industry and helpful tips on how to continue pursuing a writing career.
I also participated in an online writer’s session earlier this month. Though I had listened to and enjoyed the podcast this past year, after one month I’m already really feeling the added value of the Manuscript Academy subscription.
James Williamson
June 16, 2021
Her guidance was thoughtful and kind, and I never felt rushed.
Ms. Sands was an absolute pleasure to speak with. Her guidance was thoughtful and kind, and I never felt rushed. I was so inspired after our conversation that I immediately got to work implementing her suggestions for my query letter! It was a wonderful experience.
Stacey Danevicz
June 16, 2021
More informative than my MFA
My consultation was amazing. Cecilia provided me with excellent feedback and opened my eyes to some (now) obvious errors in my prose. Honestly, her consultation was more enlightening and informative than many of my writing classes I attended in my MFA program. Thank you for creating this valuable opportunity.
Rochelle S.
June 16, 2021
Her feedback was kind, collaborative, and helpful
Jessica did an excellent job answering my questions. I wasn’t sure my first page was the best way to open my manuscript, and Jessica helped guide me. Her feedback was kind, collaborative, and helpful. I appreciated the conversation and her professional insights were super valuable. She also gave me great suggestions for comp titles. Thank you, Jessica!
Jenn Marlis
May 12, 2021
I left the meeting feeling encouraged and hopeful
I would highly recommend both the experience of doing the query consult and doing so with Ms. Kenshole. Not only was she very easy to talk with but she gave me feedback that I could immediately put to use. I also had the opportunity to ask my burning questions. I left the meeting feeling encouraged and hopeful. Whether you’re just starting out or have hit a wall—the ten minute consult could be just the help you need.
Julia Cooper
May 12, 2021
Feedback is so on-point and specific
Caitlin is awesome. I’ve spoken to her twice now and her feedback is so on-point and specific, while always being kind and upbeat. She’s a terrific advisor and I bet she’d make an excellent agent, for anyone lucky enough to get her.
Jayme Inman
May 12, 2021
Very helpful in making some developmental decisions
Hannah was very helpful in making some developmental decisions. I’m at 18,000 words in a manuscript that has skirted the edge between memoir and fiction. She showed me how fictionalizing a memoir would provide the freedom I needed to enhance the story. I look forward to reengaging with Hannah or another professional as needed. Thanks so much!
Karen Fisher
May 12, 2021
Extremely helpful
This session was extremely helpful. I am able to pinpoint my style a bit more and know what the main issues are that need to be resolved before querying.
Kaitlynn McShea
May 12, 2021
Questions answered that really helped narrow down which paths to pursue
Alyssa was very easy to talk to. Although I was nervous, I had a great time and got questions answered that really helped narrow down which paths to pursue. I would recommend her for consults for sure.
Rachel Scott
April 30, 2021
I feel like I have a strong idea of what I’ve done well and what I need to work on.
I met with Melissa Warten for the 10 minute query critique. I enjoyed working with her, so I came back for a 15 minute 10 page critique. Melissa is fantastic. I feel like I have a strong idea of what I’ve done well and what I need to work on. She is very approachable and extremely clear with her feedback. It is evident Melissa is passionate about literature. She arrives to the sessions prepared and excited to discuss the writer’s work. I highly recommend these sessions!
Marci Rubin
April 30, 2021
Specific, insightful suggestions
Whitney Ross was enormously helpful–in just our 10-minute discussion. She provided specific, insightful suggestions for my query letter–and she did so with real compassion and care. I am grateful for her recommendations and am inspired by her encouragement.
Bud Jennings
April 30, 2021
Smart, practical and kind
Very much enjoyed my talk with Kayla. After seeing her podcast, I knew she’d be great – smart, practical and kind. I definitely recommend a consultation with her.
Jayme Inman
April 22, 2021