ManuscriptAnalysis.aiExample Manuscript Analysis Report
Below is a preview of a sample manuscript editorial analysis report. This is the type of comprehensive, expert-reviewed document you will receive after submitting your manuscript.
Editorial Report: “Murder of Rhoda Jones”
Hi Claudia, here is the editorial analysis for your novel, “Murder of Rhoda Jones.”
Story Arc Analysis
Plot Structure and Development
Your story presents an ambitious multi-generational narrative spanning from 1887 to 1975, weaving together mystery, family history, and genealogical research. The main plot follows two interconnected threads: the historical mystery of Rhoda Jones' death in 1887 and the contemporary (1975) quest by Sophie and Gran to uncover family history.
Structure and Pacing
You employ a complex structure with multiple time periods and perspectives. Your prologue effectively establishes the 1887 mystery, while the main narrative alternates between 1925 flashbacks and 1975 present-day action. However, this structure creates some pacing issues - the story feels episodic rather than building consistent momentum toward resolution.
Showcase 1 (Effective opening):
“In the village of Gaylord in northern Michigan, Rhoda Jones lay in bed, coughing. In her delirium she saw crimson rose petals on her handkerchief, which shimmered before her eyes.”
This is a strong, atmospheric opening that immediately establishes the mystery.
Showcase 2 (Pacing issue):
The transition from Chapter 9 (Gran's 1925 confrontation with Crawford) to Chapter 11 (back to 1975 Florida) feels abrupt. This major revelation deserves more processing time and emotional impact.
Character Development
Sophie emerges as the primary protagonist in the 1975 sections, and you show her growth from an uncertain art student to a passionate genealogist. Her character arc is well-developed, particularly her relationship with family history and her budding romance with Michael. Gran's character is complex, carrying the weight of her 1925 secret, though her motivations could be clearer.
Showcase 1 (Strong development):
Sophie's character growth is evident when she transforms from someone hiding her college rejection to confidently declaring: “Since Gran was brave enough to tell us her story, I'm going to follow suit with a confession of my own.” This shows her gaining courage and honesty.
Overall Assessment
Strengths
- Rich historical detail and authentic period atmosphere
- Engaging premise combining mystery with genealogical research
- Strong sense of place, particularly Michigan and Florida settings
- Impressive research foundation
- Compelling family saga spanning multiple generations
- Effective use of real historical events and contexts
Areas for Improvement
- Pacing issues due to complex structure
- Some characters need deeper development
- Dialogue could be more natural and character-driven
- Technical writing issues need attention
- The mystery elements could be more tightly plotted
- The romantic subplot needs more development
Priority Actions
High Priority
- Technical proofreading - Address grammar, punctuation, and formatting issues
- Pacing revision - Restructure the timeline for better narrative flow
- Character development - Deepen historical characters
Medium Priority
- Dialogue enhancement - Make conversations more natural
- Mystery plotting - Strengthen investigative elements
- Research integration - Weave genealogical information more organically
Conclusion
Claudia, “Murder of Rhoda Jones” presents a solid foundation for a compelling historical mystery with strong research backing and an engaging multi-generational story. With focused revision addressing the structural, character development, and technical issues identified above, your manuscript has the potential to appeal strongly to readers of historical fiction and genealogical mysteries.
Overall Rating: B-
A good foundation requiring moderate revision
Recommendation: Revise and resubmit with a focus on structural improvements and character development.
This is just a preview. The full 20-page report includes:
- ✓ Character and Relationship Analysis
- ✓ Detailed Prose Analysis (Writing Style, Descriptive Language, Dialogue)
- ✓ Grammar and Mechanics with Specific Examples
- ✓ Point of View Analysis
- ✓ Unanswered Questions and Loose Ends
- ✓ 10 Detailed Suggestions for Improvement
