Testimonials 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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Kelly “Gets” It

Unlike the majority of rejection letters that I’ve received for my middle-grade fantasy, Kelly Van Sant provided detailed feedback that focused on both my query letter and my first page. The goal of our meeting was to figure out why I wasn’t receiving “fulls” but only polite compliments.

Kelly totally zeroed in on my premise, and I felt like she totally “got” my setup, stakes, and themes. She suggested minor tweaks to the query and a refocus on the main character for the first page. Plus she answered all my questions. Our time spent together was well worth it.

Marilyn Petrokubi
May 13, 2025

Great reading and advice

Sheila’s great. She quickly helped me revise my query and gave thoughtful and helpful feedback to my first ten pages. I highly recommend her!

Karen Miller
May 13, 2025

The consultation with Bridget provided me with a clear direction for my manuscript and cleared out any insecurities with answers to my questions.

Daria Piskozub
May 13, 2025

Compassionate Critiques

Linda Camacho exudes consideration in her critiquing sessions. Not only did she show genuine interest in my project, but also as me as a person. In both sessions I had with her, she spent time to understand my manuscript by asking clarifying questions in addition to providing her thoughts. My query transformed under her guidance, and she offered much needed encouragement, insight into the industry, and advice in regards to my first ten pages. I am grateful for her time, and especially for how she treated me with empathy and not just another box to tick off in her busy schedule.

Hannah Teryn
May 13, 2025

I can’t thank her enough

Bridget was thoughtful, kind, and thorough in our consultation meeting. I am confident that her feedback will be invaluable in my querying journey!

Jamie Flockhart
May 13, 2025

The query letter pro

Thao opened my eyes to opportunities to improve my query letter which I am certain I would not have otherwise identified. She was kind and helpful. Thank you so much, Thao!

Jamie Flockhart
May 13, 2025

Well Done Dawn

Kaitlyn Sanchez said my picture book manuscript was well done. I’m so happy to hear this from a respected agent after I worked for years on my story. She gave me insights on how to edit my work to possibly increase an editor’s interest. This seasoned agent was very approachable and upbeat, yet so professional. This is the second time she gave me feedback on my work and I’ll seek her advice again soon. Thank you.

Dawn Byrne
May 13, 2025

Helpful!

Renee’s advice made a lot of sense, and she answered all of my questions. Overall, she was patient, professional, and very approachable. My query is so much better because of her help.

Karen Janowsky
May 13, 2025

Thorough Review of Query Letter

Alice Spielberg was generous with her thoughtful review of my query letter. It was so helpful to have feedback from a real agent to let me know where I was getting it right and where I could improve. 10/10 recommend!

Bree A Cox
May 13, 2025

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
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