Manuscript Editing
pages will stumble, we set you straight.
At A Clever Horse, we offer detailed, constructive feedback with a focus on what makes your work yours: voice, craft, and intention. Whether you’re sketching out an idea, shaping a first draft, or refining a full-length manuscript, you’ll get thoughtful, specific guidance to help you move forward—at any stage.
Writers go through multiple drafts—often with a few big rewrites along the way. Getting a professional editorial perspective can help you identify structural issues, pacing, clarify your vision, and make your process more efficient. We intend for your pages to grab the reader’s attention right out of the gate. And keep the momentum going.
We’ll read your manuscript pages with care, considering your goals, themes, and voice. We’ll focus on both the heart and the architecture of your piece—what’s landing, what’s lagging, and how to lift it. (Don’t worry, it’s constructive, not critical.) Along with your marked-up pages, you’ll receive a detailed editorial letter—a guide to help you refine your draft, deepen its purpose, and shape the work into something that resonates—on the page and beyond it.
how it works:
Let’s begin with a 5- 10 page sample. Submit your sample pages to get started.
Developmental editing starts with a snapshot of your manuscript. This gives us a window into your voice, structure, and the heart of what you're building. we’ll offer big-picture feedback and a conversation focused on your project’s strengths, challenges, and what you’re hoping to accomplish.
From there, we read your manuscript pages closely, then schedule a conversation to unpack feedback. Together, we’ll create a plan to keep you moving forward—and keep you in the saddle. Our aim is to help you clarify your vision and strengthen your draft from the inside out—so the story you’re telling lands with the impact you intend.
Every package includes:
A pre-edit call to discuss your goals
One complete pass of your manuscript
Detailed written feedback tailored to your project
One follow-up call (up to 1 hour) to discuss next step
Encouragement, accountability, and—when needed—a gentle kick to keep you moving forward
Flat Rate Pricing
up to 30,000 words — $1,800
30,000–60,000 words — $3,000
60,000–90,000 words — $4,200
90,000–120,000 words — $5,600
Booking Your Spot:
To hold your place in our calendar, we ask for a 50% deposit when you book. This deposit ensures the time is set aside just for you and your project.
The remaining balance is due upon delivery of your edit notes (for editing) or before our first session (for coaching).
If something comes up and you need to reschedule, your deposit can be applied to a new date within six months.
