Literary Consultancy
“Jacqui is the first person I show all my novels to and my most important critic. As well as being a terrific novelist in her own right, she has an acute eye for what is not quite working in any piece of work and is exceptionally good at pointing it out in a way that is firm but constructive and helpful. I can recommend her highly to anyone who needs help.” |
What is Literary Consultancy?
Literary Consultancy is a service to writers who need honest and constructive feedback on their writing work, prior to submission to agents and publishers. As the publishing market becomes increasingly competitive, the role of the literary consultant is to help you ensure that your manuscript is as good as it can possibly be, before you consider sending it out.
The intention is to enable you to look at your work through fresh eyes and to give a realistic assessment of the manuscript’s readiness.
My role, as a Literary Consultant, is to read your work thoroughly, as an editor would, and consider what is working about your manuscript and what could be done to improve it. I then write a ‘Reader’s Report’ which I return to you, together with your manuscript, annotated with my comments.
What is the Reader’s Report?
The ‘Reader’s Report’ is a detailed, written report, which gives full editorial comments on the work submitted. It includes a summary of the work’s strengths, as well as constructive suggestions for improvement and editing. The report for a full-length manuscript will be between 7-10 single-spaced pages and I pencil annotate the manuscript with my comments. This is not a full editing service, although full editing services are available on request.
The Report includes:
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What is different about your consultancy service?
I believe that the service I offer is the most personal in the UK marketplace. I write the report myself and your contact is directly with me, not a business or agency. When you receive the report, I encourage you to telephone me to discuss it. I have a personal investment in your success.
As a novelist and a creative writing teacher, I have learned to quickly see what is working and what is not in a piece of work – and I can always see solutions to writing problems. I have a strong track record of helping authors to revise and edit their work, prior to publication. I continue to build strong and valued links in the industry, amongst agents and editors who trust my judgment on the manuscripts I offer them.
My primary aim is to empower you as a writer. In order to do this, I am honest with you at all times about the readiness of your work. I will tell you, frankly, whether I believe your work is likely to be accepted – and if there is work to be done, I will give you clear direction about the nature of that work.
As a writer myself, I understand what writers go through: the pleasures and pains of creation; the fear of rejection; the uncertainty about one’s work. In my feedback, I am both honest and positive. In other words, I know how to both nurture your talent and grow it, so you can reach your full potential as a writer.
You are a novelist. Do you also work with non-fiction authors?
Yes, I understand the non-fiction market and have a broad understanding of fiction in all genres. I have knowledge of the e-book market also. And I have an additional interest in self-help and business books, having worked extensively with other coaches on their work.
Whilst I love poetry, I do not, however, accept poetry submissions, nor do I write reports on screenplays as I do not consider myself an expert in these spheres. However, if you are a poet or a screenplay writer, do get in touch and I will refer you to a valued colleague.
Can Literary Consultancy work with Coaching?
Yes. Some clients choose the ‘Coaching and Consultancy’ package. Others choose this package PLUS a Reader’s Report. Please see the Coaching Page for details of how coaching can compliment the consultancy work.
Can you help me with the package I send to agents and publishers?
Yes. If you send me a synopsis of your work and sample three chapters, I will work with you to get that work in perfect shape for submission. My report will detail what needs to be done to ensure that the work really catches an agent’s eye.
I want to go ahead and submit my manuscript to you. What do I need to know?
- Please fill in the website contact form prior to submitting a manuscript in order to book in a date for reading and return of the report.
- Once you have booked a slot, I will be in touch to find out your particular requirements. My service includes a complimentary 30 minute phone consultation enabling you to discuss your response to my report. There is also an option of a 1 hour complimentary coaching call for those interested in booking a consultancy/coaching package.
- Texts must be printed in 12pt, double spaced, on one side of A4 on loose, numbered sheets. A total word count is also useful. Where the text is not double-spaced or 12 pt, the fee will be adjusted accordingly.
- Prior to submission, please ensure you have a full backup copy of your manuscript. All due care is taken to safeguard your manuscript but I cannot be held responsible for manuscripts lost in the post.
- When submitting, please include a short (2 page) synopsis plus a little personal background and any particular questions/concerns you have about the work that you wish me to address in my report.
- There is a fast-track service available – please enquire about fee and availability for this service.
I look forward to working with you and helping you take your writing career to the next stage…