Writing can be a solitary experience, but it shouldn’t be lonely. We know it can be difficult to get objective advice on your work-in-progress, which is why we created this writing service with some of Australia’s best and most experienced editors.
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Testimonials
“This is an incredible opportunity, take it! I particularly recommend the KYD Manuscript Assessment Service for writers with a well-advanced draft and complete story who need an experienced and compassionate eye to take it to the next level.”
“An excellent opportunity to broaden and improve my work. A highly professional and sensitive way to engage in manuscript feedback which also encourages positive momentum, a chance to see the work anew and open up new possibilities.”
More information
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions. Feel free to email us if there’s anything else you’d like to know!
1.) How does a KYD manuscript assessment work?
You’ll begin with an introductory phone consultation with your editor, in which you’ll discuss what you’re hoping to get out of an assessment and any particular areas you’d like the editor to pay attention to. Your editor will then read the manuscript and put together comprehensive editorial notes. These notes examine the key elements of the work (structure, character, plot, chronology, dialogue etc.), as well as identifying areas for further improvement. Once you’ve had the opportunity to read through these notes, you’ll have another phone consultation with your editor in which you can talk through your feedback and ask any additional questions you may have.
2.) What will I get out of it?
Professional, experienced, objective and encouraging feedback you can use to develop and strengthen your manuscript during the redrafting process. But don’t just take our word for it! Read testimonials from other writers who have used the service.
3.) Who will my editor be?
You can read more about our editors here. They’re all professionals with years of experience working at some of Australia’s best publishing houses. If you have a preference for who you’d like to work with, please let us know in the order notes. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request, but this can depend on editor availability. We understand that it can be daunting to share your work, so we want to assure you that all of our editors work with you in an understanding, encouraging and constructive way. We want to help you make your work the best it can be—whether you want to share the story with your friends or family, are planning to self-publish, or are intending to submit to a publisher, agent or competition.
4.) How much does it cost?
To view prices, please visit our shop. If your work doesn’t fall within our price categories we’re happy to negotiate an appropriate fee for the assessment.
5.) How long does it take?
Generally an assessment will be delivered within 4 to 6 weeks of delivery of the manuscript to the editor, but this is dependent on word length. This is a popular service so we suggest booking ahead to avoid missing out.
6.) Which genres are eligible for assessment?
Literary fiction, commercial fiction, historical fiction, crime, thrillers, memoir, autobiography, narrative non-fiction, history, personal development, poetry, short story collections, YA fiction, middle grade, children’s.
7.) What happens once I’ve completed my shop purchase?
After you’ve placed your order we will get in touch to arrange the schedule for your assessment, as well as assign you an editor. Please note, you must submit your manuscript to KYD within six months of purchase.
8.) I’m ready! How do I book a manuscript assessment?
Head to our Manuscript Assessment shop page.
9.) Anything else?
For any other questions, please email [email protected] and we’ll be delighted to help.
