Over the years I’ve read quite a range of manuscripts (from both published and unpublished writers) across genres from comedy farce to crime, from historical to literary, and so on… most aimed at the adult market – hopefully my in-depth reports are helpful to the authors in taking their work to the next stage. There are certainly terrific ideas out there, and common problems too, although every single manuscript has its own strengths and weaknesses – and that’s what makes it so interesting. My approach to each is generally the same, however, beginning with a quick read through, jotting down notes, then a slower, methodical read through adding comments to the manuscript, and researching any aspect I feel is necessary (esp. e.g. historical fiction). Then I draft my report, anything up to 16 pages, covering the key aspects (strengths and weaknesses) with examples and suggestions for possible edits or revisions. If the author has raised a specific question e.g. why initial agent/publisher interest didn’t lead to success, I do my best to point to reasons why this may have been. I also then do a ‘check through read’ to review all my comments – so, usually, I read a manuscript at least three times! If you’re looking an independent expert view on your writing – then get in touch. You can reach me via Cornerstones Literacy Consultancy (see my Home Page for details)