Testimonials
"Laura Atkins is a superb editor! She not only has a knack for discovering the underlying flaws in a story, but is extremely helpful in creating plausible remedies to fix those flaws. She also is very detailed in her critiques and can discover minor but important mistakes that other editors miss. Her critiques are always performed in a constructive manner so her clients can not only fix errors but can also recognize the unique strengths of their own storytelling. I recommend Laura highly as an editor and will definitely use her services in my next writing project."
—Sandra Padmanabhan, Ph.D.
"Laura's feedback has been invaluable. Her comments are thoughtful and concise, and I have been able to move forward with my story with a renewed sense of excitement. She's a fantastic person to work with, with an amazing amount of enthusiasm for my project."
—Rachael Errington, Artist Insite website developer
"Since meeting Laura I've taken not only my novel more seriously, but my overall craft. She has the uncanny knack of picking up on the weak points of your text that you hoped no one would notice, as well as the faults you didn't. However, she's equally aware of your strengths and the strengths of your story. Laura's brought new dimensions to my work I wouldn't have previously thought possible, with a professionalism and attention to detail that's helped build my confidence both in the work and as a writer."
—Andy Dickenson, Production Journalist, ITV Meridian
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CRITIQUE SERVICES
Do you have a children's book manuscript and would like advice about how to improve it? I have seven years experience in editorial departments of children's publishers, as well as an MA in children's literature, and offer a children's book manuscript critiquing service. (For more about my background, please see the About Me section of this website).
From my time in editorial departments, I know that those who had their stories critiqued by others (such as belonging to a writer's group, attending creative writing workshops, or getting professional advice) often stood out from the enormous number of unsolicited manuscripts. Whether you are trying to send your story to publishers, or to find an agent, it is always helpful to get advice and feedback from those with experience in the field.
I will review manuscripts for picture books or novels for middle grade or young adult readers, and give you my thoughts on how I see your manuscript working in terms of plot, narrative voice, character, pacing, and anything else I note. I know how important it is for creative people to get positive feedback, so while being honest, I will be careful to highlight what I think is working as well as where I would suggest development. Before committing to work on something, I will briefly review it to let you know if I feel I can be helpful.
I charge £50 for a picture book manuscript of up to 3,000 words, and £4 per page after that (double spaced, 12 pt font, one inch margins).
For middle grade or young adult fiction, I charge £175 for up to 120 pages, and £300 for up to 300 pages (same specs as above).
I prefer that a manuscript be delivered via email, and will give feedback within six weeks. Please email or call me for more information (details are available in the Contact Me section).
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