Manuscript review
Strategic and constructive feedback on your book-in-progress
Or is your manuscript nearly finished, and you’re unsure how it will land with a publisher, agent, or critical reader?
“Thanks to Esther, I was able to take my manuscript to the next level. From the subtitle and back cover
to the chapter titles, dialogue, and structure; everything was sharpened. I removed entire chapters, added new ones,
and deepened character development. Even the secret of one of the main characters now comes across much more clearly.
Her feedback was sharp, practical, and motivating.”Richard E. de Kreek, author of Mijn eX is een HEKS (My eX is a WITCH)
“Writing a book can be an enjoyable and inspiring process, but it can also feel lonely and challenging at times.
If you’re looking to make progress while adding structure and flow to your story, I highly recommend Esther.”Danae Bodewes, author of ’Schaamteloos nieuwsgierig’
“Working with Esther is an absolute delight!
I enjoy her unwavering support, speed, and out-of-the-box thinking.
Esther constantly encouraged me to color outside the lines, to take that extra step,
and to keep pushing through challenges while keeping my bigger picture in mind.”Anne-Lies Smal, author of ‘Kleuren van Geluk(t)’
What’s included in your manuscript review?
With the experience of writing 30 books, coaching hundreds of writers, and working as a journalist, publisher, self-publisher, and avid reader, I review your manuscript through multiple lenses.
I read your work with a sharp, strategic eye. The opening chapters get extra attention, because that’s where most readers or publishers decide whether to keep going or put the book down. I focus on:
- Structure and overall flow
- Readability and clarity
- Tone of voice and authenticity
- Consistency throughout the manuscript
- Pacing: where things move too fast or too slow
- Key content choices and areas that need clarification
- and most importantly, whether your book delivers on its promise to the reader
What does a manuscript review look like?
You’ll receive a detailed editorial report of at least 5 to 10 pages, which includes:
- A clear evaluation of your structure, content, style, and narrative arc
- What’s already working and what can be improved
- Strategic feedback from the perspective of a publisher, journalist, and experienced author
- SEO-friendly title and subtitle suggestions
- Improved back cover text and/or introduction
- A practical action plan for your next step: rewriting, submitting, or self-publishing
Please note:
This manuscript review is not a copy edit or proofread. I focus on big-picture structure and content, not spelling or grammar.
“Esther’s manuscript review gave me exactly the insights I needed. I tightened the structure, added new chapters,
and integrated personal stories. With her help, I completed my manuscript and submitted it to several publishers.
The book has since been published, and I’m proud of the result.”Judith Lubbers, author of De weg naar binnen (The Way Inward)
“Enthusiast, professional, and above all: always with the practical Esther Twist.
She knows how to write a book and publish it successfully.
I now have two books to my name, and it all started with Esther!”Nienke Bloem, author of ‘The CX travel guide’
“Esther helped me shape my very personal book idea.
Suddenly, there was a back and a front cover!
That helped me find a publisher, and now my book is here. So proud!”Marcia van Marion, author of ‘De draad weer oppakken’
Is a manuscript review right for you?
- You want strategic, professional feedback on your book
- Your manuscript is still in progress, and you want to check if you’re on the right path
- You’re about to send your manuscript to a publisher, agent, or printer, and want to make a strong first impression
- You’re serious about improving your book and want strategic and comprehensive insights that go beyond grammar or word count
What kind of texts can I review?
- Book manuscripts (non-fiction, memoir, personal stories, or fiction)
- Websites (does your message match the promise you make to your audience?)
- E-books and newsletters (strategic editorial feedback before you hit send or publish)
What does a manuscript review cost?
The investment is €499 for a complete manuscript review, including a detailed report of at least 5 to 10 pages.
Unlike most editors who charge per word, I offer a fixed rate, so you know exactly what to expect with no surprises based on length.
- Is your manuscript longer? You’ll receive strategic, big-picture feedback.
- Is it shorter? I’ll dive deeper into the details.
In any case, you’ll get clear, honest insights to strengthen your writing, refine your message, and make your book more impactful.
“Esther helped me to really turn my book into reality.
Sharp, creative, and practical.”Anneke Veenendaal
“I was enchanted by Esther’s passion for writing and the way she speaks about it. She offered fantastic ideas and tips for structuring and planning my book, turning my idea into something concrete almost instantly. I now have a solid draft, and I can’t wait to keep writing! I’m a super grateful and happy writer!”
Ton van der Plaats
“I read Esther’s book “Reverse Writing” and started applying her tips. To make sure I was on the right track, we did a few live calls via Zoom. Each session was a real added value. Esther helped me create a story and not just some text.”
Thierry Desmet, author of ‘(W)ondernemerschap’
How the manuscript review process works
- You pay via my webshop
- You email me your manuscript along with any questions or focus points
- In approximately 2 – 3 weeks, you’ll receive a detailed report with feedback, insights, and a clear next-step plan
Need further support after your review? You can book a follow-up RESULTant session or book strategy session to keep the momentum going.
“Esther made sure that I actually realized
my wish to write a book.”Dymph Vroegh
“It was great that I could spar with Esther about the back cover of my book ‘If you’re in a hurry, sit down!’
That exclamation mark at the end… that’s where her (tough) energy is, and everyone will feel it.”Janneke de Geus
They preceded you
Monica, Stephen, Matthias, and Noel briefly explain what writing coaching with Esther has brought them.
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