Manuscript Assessments
Every writer deserves a thoughtful reader who knows when to sharpen and when to step back. As an author, I understand firsthand the power of honest and respectful feedback.
With an Associate Degree in Professional Writing and Editing, I bring both theory and practice to the process.
I see editing as a partnership. My feedback balances clarity with encouragement, always honouring the writer’s voice while advocating for the reader’s experience.
“Kylie Orr is a thorough and thoughtful manuscript assessor. She gave honest yet encouraging feedback that not only improved my work but also helped me push through self-doubt. Kylie's clear, insightful notes helped me identify plot holes I hadn’t noticed, and she offered practical advice I could immediately apply. Working with Kylie has made me a stronger, more confident writer. I highly recommend her if you're looking to improve your craft and want support from someone who truly understands the publishing industry and all its ups and downs.”
Katelin Farnsworth, shortlisted for the Penguin Literary Prize (2020 and 2022)
What can you expect?
A clear, practical report tailored to your manuscript and stage of development
Insight into story structure, character, pacing and reader engagement
Honest, constructive feedback from a working author who reads with care
Suggestions for next steps to help you move forward with confidence
A first-time author polishing your draft before submitting to agents or publishers
A writer preparing to self-publish and wanting a professional, external review
A published author seeking a fresh, objective take on your latest work
Anyone feeling stuck and needing clear, constructive notes to move forward
Who is it for?
Get clear, practical feedback
Editing is not one-size-fits-all. I read with care, ask the right questions, and respond to the story you’re telling.
If you’re ready for honest, constructive feedback from a working author with qualifications in editing, who understands the writing life, I’d love to read your work.
My preferred genres are:
Contemporary / commercial fiction
Women’s fiction
Suspense / thriller
Crime
About Kylie
Why choose me for your assessment?
I hold a Bachelor of Arts (English Major) and an Associate Degree in Professional Writing and Editing and bring over twenty years of experience as a professional writer and editor. My features have appeared in The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and News Ltd, and my novels Someone Else’s Child (HarperCollins, 2022) and The Eleventh Floor (HarperCollins, 2024) have been recognised nationally. I have also written four children’s books, published by Lake Press.
Pricing
I use industry guides from the Australian Society of Authors to set all of my rates.
If you are an ASA Member, you can book direct with them for a discounted price.
If you are not, and want to book direct with me, I charge as follows:
Pricing (AUD):
Up to 50,000 words – $1,450
50,000–60,000 words – $1,550
60,000–70,000 words – $1,700
70,000–80,000 words – $1,850
80,000–90,000 words – $2,000
90,000–100,000 words – $2,150
100,000–110,000 words – $2,300
Need something outside this range? Get in touch for a custom quote.