Manuscript Evaluation: Between the Draftand the Final Chapter

For fiction writers who want smart, clear-eyed feedback: without the cost of a full developmental edit.

Get a Sample Edit

Turnaroun Time

Three to four weeks

Price

$300/INR 20,000 onward

Suitable for

First time writers + Budget conscious writers

Ideal for

Querying authors looking for traditional publishers

Aanchal always knew exactly what I wanted to express, even if sometimes the original meaning was lost in translation. Her suggestions regarding linguistic subtleties were all brilliant.

- Julia Zieschang

"In April 2025, I achieved a lifelong dream by publishing my first book. That milestone wouldn't have been possible without Aanchal's invaluable support, insightful feedback, and unwavering encouragement. I would highly recommend her to anyone interested in doing their best. Aanchal, I can't thank you enough for being part of this incredible journey. Your contributions have made a difference, and I am deeply grateful to have you in my corner."

- Gabrielle A. Hunter

My narrator finished a preliminary reading of my book. Here is what she says about it: "First thing is, I wanted to tell you in person that your book is clear, elegant and beautiful. It's written so well and it's so touching. I know you know grief too, and its circularity is so satisfying for a reader. Some audiobooks are not like this, so its a pleasure to work on one that is. And it comes from the heart - how much of a true story is this? You don't need to answer that." I want you to know that I attribute much of her kind words to your help. Especially the part when she speaks of the book's circularity of grief. My first version did not describe it well. But with your help, my book is now practically perfect! Thank you, thank you so much for your help. You truly are my Goldilocks!

- R.C. Stark - One True Love

Aanchal accepted the challenge of editing our novel The Hunt that was translated from Turkish. She showed an amazing performance that went much further than a line edit. Aanchal in a way turned the translation into a novel written originally in English, focusing on meaning and flow. We are extremely satisfied with the quality and promptness of her work. Congratulations Aanchal!

- Gamze Akcakaya (author) Reha Akcakaya (translator)

I think, between the two of us, we caught everything and I found Aanchal’s developmental comments very helpful. I’ll definitely use Margin Notes again.

- E. R. Whyte

Aanchal went over my draft with an acute eye for detail and made extremely valuable comments and notes in addition to the checks on grammar. The service I received was invaluable, and I look forward to working with her again.

- Gemma Iversen

Aanchal Jain can be counted as being among the elite of book editors. Aanchal not only corrected grammatical and punctuation issues, but she also has a keen eye for plot development and made important suggestions for improving the story-line. Aanchal was a delightful literary partner – fast, efficient and thoughtful.

- J Paul Hickey

After Aanchal’s sharp eye has been through, you’ll reach the end of your manuscript filled with enough confidence to release it to the world. It was clear to me that she took the time to consider my story and what would work best for my world.

- Christy L. Erasmus

Your notes, ideas and suggestions were spot on! You took my words and my voice and you polished them into a coherent story. The thoughtfulness and care that you so obviously took with your edit is appreciated more than I’m probably articulating in this note, but please know, I felt it.

- Michael Robert

I have edited my own work numerous time, and have had several others look over it as well. But Aanchal can consistently find ways to make the writing smoother, more active, and more concise.

- Nestor Pura – Author of his Memoir

Is This You?

You’ve finished a draft (or three) and want smart, honest feedback

You’re not sure if the story works—the structure, stakes, or pacing feel off

You're querying agents or preparing to self-publish, and want to catch big flaws before it's too late

You've heard “I loved it!” from friends—but need professional clarity

You want help that respects your creative voice, not edits it away

What You Get?

Your Story Is Almost There. Let’s Make It Work.

Margin Notes Editorial Report

Thoughtful, structured feedback on your plot, pacing, character arcs, emotional beats, theme, and more

Scene Map + Chapter Breakdown

Visual insight into how your story unfolds—and where it slows or jumps

Theme & Stakes Diagnostic Tool

A custom checklist of what’s landing well and what feels flat—so you don’t revise blind

Market Viability Note

We’ll let you know how your manuscript aligns with your genre, audience, and current market trends

Revision Strategy Blueprint

Step-by-step guidance on what to revise, what to rethink, and what to leave alone (yes—some things are working!)

Optional 30-Minute Consult (Premium Only)

Want to talk it out? Add a live call to clarify feedback, ask questions, or get an action plan

0

Why Writers Choose This Over A Developmental Edit?

You just need to know what’s working, and what’s not

Get a high-level evaluation and see the full picture without committing to a deep structural edit just yet

You're not ready for a big investment yet

Revise with purpose before spending more

You want confidence before I start querying

Pitch strategically and don't send out queries that might undersell a great story

Our Process

Discovery & Alignment

We start by understanding your goals, concerns, and where you’re stuck. You’ll complete a short intake form that helps us see your manuscript through your eyes.

In-Depth Read & Analysis

We do a full read of your manuscript—not skimming, not surface-level—and take notes on key structural, emotional, and thematic elements. We examine what’s working and what’s not, always with your voice and vision in mind.

Comprehensive Editorial Report (25-30 pages)

The report breaks down: Plot structure and pacing, character arcs and relationship dynamics, emotional and thematic resonance, scene flow and chapter transitions, genre expectations and market fit

Your Turn: Reflect, Revise, or Reach Out

You take time to process, review, and begin revisions. If you’ve chosen the Premium package, we schedule a 30-minute review call to walk through your roadmap or answer questions about the feedback.

Continued Support (Optional)

We offer short-term email support post-evaluation (especially with the Premium package) so you're not left guessing. You can also return later for a second-look consult, or bring us your revised manuscript for the next stage.

You don’t need another rewrite. You need direction. Get a clear, confident roadmap for your novel.

So you can revise with purpose, not panic

Whether you’re self-publishing or preparing to query, this is the most powerful investment you can make before taking your manuscript to the world.

Book a Discovery Call

FAQs

A manuscript evaluation is a one-time review of your draft with an editorial letter and next steps. Monthly coaching is an ongoing partnership where you receive regular feedback, guidance, and check-ins to help you develop your manuscript over time.