services
Manuscript Services
You’ve been writing in the dark long enough. Get honest, actionable feedback from a published author and developmental editor who’s helped thousands of writers level up their craft. Whether you’re preparing to self-publish, building a query package, or just want to know if your opening chapters are strong enough to keep readers turning pages — this critique will show you exactly where you stand and what to fix.
Your Manuscript
What You’ll Get
A thorough, honest assessment of your first 5,000 words — covering voice, pacing, character, structure, dialogue, and the specific habits holding your writing back. No vague compliments. No generic advice. You get a detailed critique you can actually use. Every submission receives a multi-page edit letter plus line-level markup, so you know exactly what’s working and what needs to change.
Included
What’s Included
Quick Read
- First 1,000 words
- Written feedback
- Strengths & weaknesses
- 1-page summary
- 48-hour turnaround
Deep Critique
- First 5,000 words
- Line-by-line markup
- Detailed critique letter
- Craft recommendations
- Structure analysis
- 1-week turnaround
Full Manuscript
- Full manuscript up to 80K
- Developmental edit letter
- Line edits on first 3 chapters
- Plot & structure analysis
- Character arc review
- Pacing & tension notes
- 2-week turnaround
FAQ
Common Questions
Have a question before booking?
Have questions before booking? Here are the most common ones. If yours isn’t answered below, email derek@writethemagic.com and I’ll get back to you personally.
What does the critique cover?
The critique covers your first 5,000 words (usually 2–3 chapters, or a prologue plus first chapter). You’ll get a detailed developmental assessment of voice, pacing, character sympathy, scene depth, structure, dialogue, and the specific writing habits holding you back. The feedback also includes genre expectations analysis, target audience assessment, catalyst and inciting incident evaluation, conflict and suspense notes, and publishing advice.
How long does it take to get my critique back?
The Quick Read ($97) has a 48-hour turnaround. The Deep Critique ($297) takes about one week. The Full Manuscript review ($597) is returned within two weeks. Turnaround starts from the day your submission is received. If there’s a waitlist, I’ll let you know your expected start date immediately.
Who does the critique?
Derek Murphy personally reads and critiques every submission. He holds a PhD in Literature, has worked as a developmental editor for over a decade, and is the author of Write the Magic. His plotting and writing craft videos have been viewed over two million times on YouTube. This isn’t farmed out to interns or AI — you get direct, expert feedback from someone who’s helped thousands of writers strengthen their manuscripts.
What format does the feedback come in?
You’ll receive two things: a detailed edit letter (a multi-page document covering all the checklist items — character, structure, pacing, voice, genre fit, and more) plus your manuscript file with line-by-line markup showing specific passages that need work and why. The edit letter tells you the big picture; the markup shows you exactly where the issues live in your text.
How do I submit my manuscript?
After payment, you’ll receive a form to upload your manuscript. Word documents (.docx) are preferred, but a Google Docs link also works. Include a brief note about your genre, target audience, and any specific concerns you want addressed. Email derek@writethemagic.com if you have trouble with the upload.
What genres do you accept?
All fiction genres — literary fiction, fantasy, science fiction, romance, thriller, mystery, horror, historical, YA, and everything in between. I also review creative nonfiction and memoir. The core craft principles (character, pacing, voice, structure, scene depth) apply across genres, so the feedback is always specific and actionable regardless of what you’re writing.
Is this the full manuscript or just my opening?
The Quick Read and Deep Critique tiers focus on your opening pages (first 1,000 or 5,000 words). The reason: the majority of readers give a book about five pages to hook them. If your opening doesn’t work, editing the rest is premature. The Full Manuscript tier ($597) covers your entire book up to 80,000 words, including plot and structure analysis, character arc review, and pacing notes for the whole story.
What happens after I get my critique?
You revise. The critique gives you a concrete roadmap of what to fix and how. Most writers find the structural and craft feedback changes how they approach the rest of their manuscript. If you want a second look after revisions, you can resubmit at a discounted rate. There’s also a 100% money-back guarantee — if you’re not satisfied with the critique, you get a full refund, no questions asked, and you keep the bonus marketing course either way.
derek@writethemagic.com
Phone
writethemagic.com