M/M Manuscript Evaluation Service
Let Josh Show You the Write Stuff

2007, MLR Press
Trade paperback
March 2008.

So…you're probably asking yourself how Josh Lanyon -- given that brutal writing schedule that we've all heard so much about -- has time to offer a manuscript evaluation service?

Maybe it's the natural next step of writing Man, Oh Man! Writing M/M Fiction for Kinks and Ca$h, my How-To book for gay romance authors.

Maybe it's partly self-protection: I've been informally evaluating and offering editorial advice for years -- and for free -- and I just can't do it anymore.

Maybe it's because I need the dough.

Maybe it's because I genuinely care about good writing and the rapidly expanding M/M genre. This arena is one where a little expertise and insight can make a big difference to a writer's career.

Maybe it's a combination of all these things.

My credentials are out there for anyone to examine at leisure: read my work. You either like the way I spin a word, or you don't.

But either way, I have ten years of successful experience with both mainstream and niche publishing. I've been published by the largest of New York publishers, and I've self-published. I've pretty much seen it all. I've taught writing in workshops and online seminars. And last, but not least, I'm the author of Man, Oh Man! Writing M/M Fiction for Kinks and Ca$h!

I'm not guaranteeing that an evaluation from me will get you published -- not even if you follow every one of my suggestions. Or that you won't still need to be edited -- especially copy-edited -- if you are accepted for publication. (You may already be published, for that matter and merely looking to move up the publishing food chain.) What I do promise is that through evaluation you'll learn how to make your work stronger and more commercial -- you'll take your writing to the next level -- and you'll gain a little insight into the publishing business along the way. I believe in most cases you'll come away with a better understanding of what makes for good storytelling, in particular as it relates to character and plot -- and your own work.

Analysis

For the evaluation options described below, you will receive one to three pages of constructive, detailed analysis consisting of -- but not limited to:

• Content: Characterization, clarity, dialogue, plots and sub-plots, setting, mood, believability, description, pace and story flow, and research.
  
  
• Overall writing technique and style: I am not a copy-editor but will take a brief (very brief) look at spelling, tone, description, grammar, language, word usage, typos, punctuation and formatting.
  
  
• Developing story and characters: Practical steps, including addressing readability, organization, and commerciality of the project.
  
  
• Addressing any particular questions submitted by the author not covered under the basic evaluation/critique.
  
  

Format for Submissions

• Preferred: RTF file submitted electronically with one inch margin all around, double-spaced, twelve point Times New Roman 
  
  
• Acceptable: Type-written or computer generated hardcopy with accompanying SASE (Self Addressed Stamped Envelope) for your manuscript's safe return. White, single-sided paper. DO NOT SEND THE ONLY COPY OF YOUR MANUSCRIPT.

In both cases: one inch margin all around, double-spaced, twelve point Times New Roman or Courier preferred.

Handwritten submissions are not acceptable.

Payment

Payment must be sent with manuscript (PayPal or check/money order made out to “Josh Lanyon”).

I reserve the right to refuse any project.

If your project is accepted for evaluation, please understand that there is no refund available, regardless of whether you like what I have to say about your work.

Timeframe

The evaluation process will take five to eight weeks, depending upon the length of the submission.

Evaluation Options

• Option 1
  1 - 25 pages (up to 6,250 words) in standard manuscript format. Your choice of what you send, but I suggest you start with the first chapter if it's part of a longer work.
  
  Receive detailed notes and comments, general opinion of the writing and style, overall thoughts on the partial work.
  
  Fee: $49.00 (US or Canadian)
  
  
  
• Option 2
  First three chapters and synopsis (or detailed outline). Your first three chapters -- approximately 50 pages (up to 13,000 words). Your synopsis or detailed outline should be no more than 10 pages. This is the basic submission package or book proposal, and it's vital to learn how to put this together properly.
  
  Receive a constructive, detailed analysis of your plot, characterization and style, together with detailed notes and comments. Analysis of strong points and weaknesses. Practical suggestions for how to strengthen opening chapters.
  
  Fee: $125. (US or Canadian)
  
  
  
• Option 3
  Full manuscript and synopsis (or detailed outline as described above):
  
  Receive a constructive, detailed analysis of your plot, characterization, style, etc. together with detailed notes and comments. In-depth analysis of strong points and weaknesses, including practical suggestions on how to strengthen and tighten entire manuscript.
  
  Fees:
  Up to 65,000 words - $2.00 a page
  Over 65,000 words - $1.75 a page
  
  

For questions or further details, please e-mail me.