Critique FAQ:

1) How do I submit my document once I've placed an order?

There will be simple, direct instructions after you check out. If you have any questions after checking out, please contact me.

2) How long will a critique take?

For shorter pieces like query letters, first chapters and short stories, 1-4 weeks. Longer pieces, especially full critiques, take 4-8 weeks. A rush service (1-3 weeks) is available for full critiques, but you must contact me before ordering this service, as it's based on my timetable and if I can squeeze it in. (For example, the week of my sister's wedding I will not be taking on any rush clients!)

3) Why do critiques take so long?

There are a lot of reasons. One, I have a day-job, so that eats up a number of hours a week. Another reason is that I do have my own writing that requires my attention. And of course I have a husband, a dog, and a house, so as much as I'd like to be able to ignore all housework in favor of crit, I really can't.

But the biggest reason is that good critiques require quite a bit of concentration and effort. I'm not going to dash off a hasty "this looks good" or "you need to change X, Y, and Z" when I know you're paying me to give your work my attention. It's entirely possible I'll read your short story two, three, or more times before I send you my final thoughts. I'll re-read whole novel chapters if something doesn't feel quite right and I can't put my finger on it the first time.

4) What if I don't like my critique?

Here's where things get a little sticky, because no one really likes to have their work taken apart-- even me, and I really do love getting critiques back. But a critique is an opinion: hopefully you've chosen to pay me for mine because you think it will be useful to you. You probably won't agree with every point I make-- I've never 100% agreed with a critique anyone (even Jess) has given me, but I only want to help make the story in front of me the best it can be.

That said, I do state that once I give the critique, it is my final in-depth response to that piece at that time for a reason-- I can't go back and forth with everyone about every manuscript, I just don't have the time. However, if something I said isn't clear, please let me know. I don't want you wondering about what I meant, and I do see critique as a dialogue, so if anything confuses you or you need more information, please email me and let me know what I can do to help.

More In-Depth Policies on Critiques:

1. Works must be submitted in English because unfortunately, that's the only language I know.

2. No refunds will be given unless I am unable to write a critique. Reasons for not being able to write the critique include:
a) I have wrist issues, and while I do not have carpel tunnel, we're not sure what the problem actually is. So, physically, there might be a time where I cannot get a critique done. If this is the case, you will be notified as soon as I know there's a problem. If we can still get it worked out in a suitable timeframe, great. If not, I understand & will issue a refund.
b) If the manuscript is unreadable and I cannot reach the sender to discuss possible solutions I will issue a refund. If the sender then wishes to hire me again, they can resubmit payment after we've discussed the original problem.
c) If the manuscript is a genre I am not comfortable critiquing. If this is the case, I will attempt to discuss the issue with the sender first.

Help
Need help with anything else? Contact me.