Each day, dozens of people ask me questions hoping for a personal response. I could easily spend hours answering them. Obviously that’s problematic when I have other work to do.

Still, I want to help. Over the last 15 years, I have spent thousands of hours building and maintaining a repository of helpful information at my website meant to answer your questions and provide guidance at every step of your writing and publishing journey. Most of the information you need is free at my website. This FAQ helps you find some of it.

In some instances, you might face a business challenge that fits my free Business Clinic; you are welcome to apply.

Here are the most common reasons I hear from people, and what I can offer in response.

I need someone to read or review my manuscript. Will you take a look?

I do not read or review manuscripts of any kind, but my resource list includes many people who offer editorial services and consulting. However, I do have qualms when it comes to offering recommendations that I hope you will read.

Can you recommend a specific editor who fits my situation/genre/identity?

My website’s resource list is meant to help you find the right person. If this list isn’t as helpful as you were hoping for, then you can contact me for the more extensive list I offer via email. To keep your search alive, I’d review editor collectives that I mention, search Publishers Marketplace for members who are freelancers, or post your job through the Editorial Freelancers Association. Also, start asking other authors and colleagues for referrals. Call up local writers groups, libraries, universities, or bookstores. Put out a call on social media. Cast a wide net and don’t keep your search a secret. Then be sure to carefully vet anyone using this guidance: https://janefriedman.com/comprehensive-guide-to-finding-working-with-editors/

Would you review my query letter or proposal?

I no longer help with submissions materials of any kind, but my resource list includes others who perform this work.

Can you recommend a publisher or literary agent? Can you send me a list of publishers/agents?

I do not recommend publishers or agents, nor do I perform this research for you. However, here’s my guidance:

• https://janefriedman.com/find-literary-agent/
• https://janefriedman.com/how-to-find-publishers/
• Copy Write Consultants can perform this research for you for a flat fee: https://copywriteconsultants.com/agent-and-publisher-research/

Where can I find critique partners or beta readers?

Try Inked Voices, which specializes in writing groups that read/critique each other: https://app.inkedvoices.com/

Writing conferences are also a good way to meet other writers and potential critique partners. Classes with a workshop component where you get to know other students can also be helpful. The best way to find these is through a local nonprofit writing center. Bianca Marais, from The Shit No One Tells You About Writing podcast, also hosts regular Beta Reader matchups.

I have a book idea/manuscript but I don’t know what to do next or where to start.

Consult these posts: