Short Story Critiques
Short stories are delicate, concentrated things. With so few words, every sentence carries weight; a single image, gesture, or pause can shift how the whole story feels. That’s also what makes them tricky. When you’ve been close to a draft, it can be hard to see what’s really working, or where the story might be holding back. A thoughtful critique gives you that outside eye - not just pointing out the rough edges, but helping you see how to bring the story closer to what you intended.
When I approach short story feedback, I start with atmosphere and emotion - how the story breathes, where it carries weight, and where it might fall thin - before moving between the big picture and the line level: structure, character, pacing, rhythm, and dialogue. Over the years, I’ve helped writers place stories in journals, strengthen competition entries, and take drafts from rough beginnings to polished submissions.
Critique Options
I offer professional short story feedback and one-to-one online sessions designed to support writers at every stage of their practice. Whether you’re polishing a competition entry, preparing a story for submission, or finding your way through the first draft of a new idea, my feedback is thoughtful, rigorous, and tailored to the story you’re trying to tell.
All written feedback is priced per 1,000 words, with different levels of support depending on how much detail and guidance you’re looking for. If you’re not sure which option is right for you, or if you’d like to talk through your project before booking, you’re very welcome to use the contact form at the bottom of the page. I’ll be happy to recommend the approach that best suits your story.
Returning clients receive 10% off new stories and 15% off returning stories.
Reader’s
Report
£35 per 1000 words
(approx. $67 USD | €57 EUR)*
Minimum charge: £70
A focused editorial overview of your story.
I’ll read your work as a careful first reader, considering the larger elements that shape the reader’s experience, including atmosphere, tone, structure, characterisation, narrative direction, and thematic coherence. I’ll highlight what is working well, identify areas that could be strengthened, and offer questions to help guide your next draft.
You’ll receive:
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A 1–2 page written editorial report, including observations on your story’s strengths, areas for development, and questions to consider during revision.
Best for: Early drafts, new ideas, or writers looking for an honest and thoughtful reader’s perspective before undertaking major revisions.
Developmental Critique
£50 per 1000 words
(approx. $67 USD | €57 EUR)*
Minimum charge: £100
A detailed editorial assessment of your story’s craft, combining big-picture analysis with close attention to the choices shaping the work.
I’ll consider both the macro elements of your story (structure, pacing, characterisation, narrative arc, and themes) and the micro elements (prose style, rhythm, imagery, dialogue, and word choice).
My feedback will focus not only on what is working or not working, but on why, and on practical ways you might strengthen the story while preserving your own voice.
You'll receive:
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Comments throughout your manuscript.
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A 2–4 page written editorial report, including analysis of your story’s strengths, areas for refinement, and suggestions for revision.
Best for: Stories you're preparing for competitions, journals, or anthologies, or writers who want detailed guidance on revising a strong draft.
Developmental
Edit
£75 per 1000 words
(approx. $100 USD | €86 EUR)*
Minimum charge: £150
My most in-depth level of editorial feedback: a close reading of your story at every level, from overall structure to individual sentences.
Alongside detailed manuscript comments, I’ll provide a substantial editorial report exploring your story’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities for refinement. This is not simply about correcting sentences, it’s about understanding how every element of the story contributes to its overall impact.
You'll receive:
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Extensive line edits and comments throughout your manuscript.
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A 3–6 page written editorial report, including detailed analysis of your story’s structure, themes, characterisation, voice, and language, with suggestions for revision.
Best for: Ambitious, experimental, or submission-ready work where you want the depth of attention associated with a professional developmental edit.
* Exchange rates correct as of May 2026.
Online Sessions
For writers who prefer a more conversational approach, I offer one-hour online sessions (via Zoom or Teams). These can be booked alongside a critique, or separately. Each session is focused entirely on your work, giving you space to ask questions, explore possibilities, and leave with a clearer sense of direction. Choose the session that suits your stage of writing.
Development Session
£60 per 1 hour session
(approx. $80 USD | €68 EUR)*
Sometimes you don’t yet have a finished draft, but you know you’d benefit from guidance before putting too many words on the page. In this one-hour session, I'll help you unpack your concept, discuss structure, characters and narrative form, and identify the atmosphere and emotional resonance you want your story to create. This can save time in drafting and give you a stronger foundation to build from.
Best for: Writers at the early stages of a story who want expert input on shaping an idea, outline, or initial draft before committing to a full critique.
Follow-Up
Session
£60 per 1 hour session
(approx. $80 USD | €68 EUR)*
Once you’ve received feedback, you may want to talk it through in real time. In this one-hour session, I'll walk you through the key points of feedback, answer any questions, and help you explore possible approaches to revision. Many writers find that this conversation deepens their understanding of the written notes and sparks new ways forward.
Best for: Writers who have received a critique from me, and want to clarify feedback, explore revision strategies, and leave with a clear action plan.
* Exchange rates correct as of May 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pay?
Full payment is required upfront before critique work begins or an online session takes place. Payment can be made via bank transfer or PayPal (details provided on booking). All prices are in GBP (£). Prices are calculated to the nearest 1000 words, subject to minimum charges for shorter manuscripts.
How do I book an online session?
Online sessions are subject to availability and run on London (UK) time. A suitable slot will be agreed before payment is requested.
Can I book multiple stories or a collection?
Yes. You can book multiple short stories at once, and the fee will be calculated based on the combined word count. For projects over 30,000 words (such as a story collection), timing and pricing can be discussed individually.
What is not included?
This is a critique and developmental feedback service — it is not proofreading, copyediting, or ghostwriting. I do not guarantee publication or competition success.
Will my work be kept confidential?
Yes. All manuscripts and critiques are treated as confidential and will never be shared without permission.
Do you offer ongoing mentoring?
Yes. Some writers prefer to work together over a series of critiques or regular online sessions. This can be arranged individually depending on your needs.
How long will it take to receive my critique?
Critiques are usually returned within 10–14 days of receiving the manuscript. If a longer timeframe is needed, this will be agreed in advance.
What length of story can I send?
You can send any length of story, but bear in mind that this will affect the price and longer stories may have a longer turnaround time. Manuscripts should be sent as Word files.
Can you re-read my story after I revise it?
Yes. Many writers choose to send a revised draft after their first critique. This can be booked as a new critique, or sometimes at a reduced fee depending on the scope of revision.
Do you work with experimental or hybrid forms?
Yes. I'm as comfortable working with experimental or playful structures as with traditional and genre short fiction. My feedback is tailored to the form you’re working in.
Can I request a refund?
Once a critique or session has been delivered, refunds are not available.
Do you work with international writers?
Yes. I work with writers worldwide but, alas, I can only speak English. Critiques are delivered by email, and online sessions can be arranged across time zones (sessions run on London/UK time).
Do you work with novelists?
Yes! I work with novelists, drawing on my experience in short-form storytelling to focus on theme, character, voice, and emotional resonance. This approach can be very useful — though it’s not the right fit for every project, and I like to be upfront about that. Please note that I don’t offer formulaic plotting, genre rules, or market advice.
What if I have another question?
If you’re unsure about anything not covered here, just use the contact form at the bottom of the page. I will be happy to answer and help you decide what’s right for your work.
How to Book
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Use the contact form below to indicate the service you’d like to book.
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I'll email you confirming the arrangements, fee and expected turnaround time.
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Payment is made upfront via bank transfer or PayPal to secure your slot.
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Your critique will be returned within the agreed timeframe
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(Optional) If you’d like to discuss the feedback face-to-face, you can add a one-hour online session.
Not sure which service is right for you? Just get in touch. I'll recommend the best option based on your goals, whether you’re polishing a competition entry, preparing for submission, or working through an early draft.
