Manuscript Review for Christian Nonfiction Books
A manuscript review is a written assessment of your unpublished book. I read the full manuscript and deliver a detailed written report covering structure, argument, audience fit, and specific recommendations for revision. This is not copyediting — it is a developmental evaluation of whether the book works and what needs to change before it does.
What the Review Covers
Structure and flow
Does the book’s architecture support its argument? I assess chapter order, pacing, the opening and closing, and whether the overall shape of the manuscript moves the reader from problem to resolution.
Argument and clarity
Is the central message clear, consistent, and well-supported? I identify where the argument is strong, where it loses focus, and where it contradicts itself.
Audience fit
Who is this book for, and does it speak to that reader? I evaluate whether the content, tone, and assumed knowledge level match the intended audience — particularly important in Christian nonfiction where the reader’s background and expectations vary widely.
Practical recommendations
The report ends with prioritized, actionable recommendations. What needs to be cut, expanded, restructured, or clarified before the manuscript is ready for the next stage.
What You Receive
A written report, typically 1,000–2,000 words, delivered within 10–14 business days of manuscript receipt. The report is specific to your manuscript — not a checklist of general writing advice.
Who This Is For
This service is for authors who:
- Have a completed or near-completed draft and want honest feedback before investing in full editing or publishing
- Are unsure whether their manuscript is ready for the next step
- Want an outside read from someone who works exclusively in Christian nonfiction
If you want line-level editing and polishing, that happens inside the Silver or Gold publishing packages. This service focuses on the manuscript’s foundation, not the prose.
Pricing
$250 — manuscripts under 50,000 words
$350 — manuscripts over 50,000 words
Contact Me to Request a Review of Your Manuscript
FAQ
What is a manuscript review?
A manuscript review is a written developmental assessment of your full book. It evaluates structure, argument, audience fit, and readiness for the next stage — editing, publishing, or a coaching engagement. It does not include line editing or proofreading.
How is a manuscript review different from editing?
Editing works at the sentence and paragraph level to improve clarity and prose. A manuscript review works at the book level — structure, argument, and whether the content serves the intended reader. Most manuscripts benefit from a review before editing begins.
How long does a manuscript review take?
Delivery is typically within 10–14 business days of receiving the complete manuscript.
How much does a manuscript review cost?
$250 for manuscripts under 50,000 words, and $350 for manuscripts over 50,000 words.
Do you review manuscripts outside Christian nonfiction?
No. I work exclusively in Christian nonfiction. If your book falls outside that category, this service is not a good fit.
What happens after I receive the review?
That depends on where you are in your process. Some authors use the review to decide whether to pursue coaching or ghostwriting. Others use it to guide a revision before hiring an editor. The report will indicate which direction makes most sense for your manuscript.
Also see:
- Gold Book Coaching — weekly coaching and full publishing support for authors still writing
- Silver Publishing Package — editing, cover, formatting, and Amazon publishing for completed manuscripts
- Pick My Brain — one-hour call to talk through your book project before committing to a service
- Ghostwriting — if the review reveals the manuscript needs more than revision
