Story Diagnostic

Perfect for writers in the drafting stage who need professional guidance before completing the manuscript. A Story Diagnostic identifies what's working, what needs strengthening, and where your story may be losing momentum so you can move forward with confidence.

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  • A focused developmental review of a portion of your manuscript (typically 3–5 chapters or up to 25,000 words).

    This service is designed to diagnose story-level issues early, helping writers strengthen their foundation before investing time revising or completing the full manuscript.

    Unlike a Manuscript Evaluation, which examines an entire completed draft, a Story Diagnostic focuses on the pages submitted and provides guidance for continuing the project.

  • This service is ideal for authors who:

    • Are actively drafting their manuscript

    • Are seeking feedback before finishing the story

    • Are struggling with pacing, structure, or character development

    • Want professional direction without submitting a full manuscript

    • Are unsure whether their story is working yet

    • Story foundation and premise strength

    • Character introductions and development

    • Plot progression and narrative momentum

    • Pacing and scene effectiveness

    • Conflict, stakes, and tension

    • Worldbuilding and story clarity

    • Show vs. tell opportunities

    • Reader engagement and emotional investment

    • 2–3 page editorial diagnostic

    • Big-picture developmental feedback

    • Identification of strengths and opportunities

    • Revision recommendations tailored to your goals

    • Actionable next steps for drafting and revision

    • Light in-manuscript comments where helpful

  • Flat-rate service

    • Up to 15,000 words - $450

    • 15,001 - 20,000 words - $550

    • 20,001 - 25,000 words - $600 (maximum scope)

    Turnaround times vary based on current availability.

    Payment plans available for services > $500.

  • What's the difference between a Story Diagnostic and a Manuscript Evaluation?

    A Story Diagnostic reviews a portion of your manuscript and helps identify developmental issues while you're still writing. A Manuscript Evaluation reviews the entire completed manuscript and provides feedback on the story as a whole.

    Does my manuscript need to be finished?

    No. This service was specifically created for writers who are still drafting.

    How many chapters can I submit?

    Most Story Diagnostics cover 3–5 chapters, up to approximately 25,000 words.

    Will you tell me what happens next in my story?

    Not exactly. Rather than rewriting the story for you, I'll identify opportunities, strengths, and developmental concerns while providing guidance that helps you make informed creative decisions.

    Is this a good alternative to a full developmental edit?

    Yes. Many writers use a Story Diagnostic as an early-stage checkpoint before completing their manuscript or investing in a larger editing service.