About:

Gail's manuscript evaluation service is for writers at all levels of experience: emerging writers, self-published authors or published writers with one or more books published by a traditional publishing house.

This developmental edit focuses on the big picture (story and structure, point of view, character development, voice) but also includes notes on the finer elements of craft.

Writers can expect at least ten pages of indepth notes on their project.

This is not a line-by-line or copy edit service. A manuscript evaluation will not guarantee publication.

Check out what writers have to say about working with Gail, below.

How it works:

Writers submit their manuscript by email on the first day of the scheduled month. Within six week's time (usually within a month), Gail will email back a detailed set of notes of at least ten pages. Gail then schedules a one-hour meeting by email where writers have the opportunity to get clarification and brainstorm on the big picture.

When:

Writers may book a developmental edit at any time, but please contact Gail's office in advance to make sure she has room in her schedule.

Cost:

A flat reading fee of $475 plus $3.75 per manuscript page plus GST/HST for your province.

For example, a 200-page manuscript would cost $1,225 plus GST/HST ($475 + $750 + GST/HST). Manuscripts are in Times New Roman, font 12, double-spaced.

A $250 (plus GST/HST) non-refundable deposit is due on registration to hold your seat, so please make sure you can commit to your chosen submission date.

The deposit will be deducted from your final invoice amount. The full fee must be paid before Gail begins work on your project.

Please contact Gail's office before making your deposit, to make sure she has room for your manuscript in her editing schedule.

Don't like paying online? No problem. Let us know and we'll set you up.

Grants for writers can often be used for professional development, like this developmental edit. Check out the Canada Council for the Arts and provincial arts councils to see if this is a funding possibility for you.

Would you like critique on a single short story? Consider a blue pencil session with Gail.

For more information, email Gail's office: books@gailanderson-dargatz.ca

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Blue Pencil Sessions

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Fiction Mentorships

Gail's flagship course. In this one-on-one, private, four-month online mentorship, Gail will guide you as you put together your fiction project.

Developmental Edits

For writers with a complete draft. This manuscript evaluation focuses on the big picture but also includes notes on the finer elements of craft.

Writing Retreat

This week-long writing retreat in the Shuswap region of BC is timed to coincide with the sockeye run on the Adams River, a natural wonder.

Gail's Classroom

Already registered for one of Gail's courses? Click here to enter Gail's online teaching forums.

Blogs on Craft

Check out these resources for writers from Gail and many of Canada's best established and emerging writers.

Events and Workshops for Groups

Gail offers library and bookclub reading events as well as writing workshops for organizations and private groups.