Q: I’ve written the first draft of my memoir. My sister and I have been estranged for years. I know I have the right to tell my story, and yet I don’t feel good about using her real name without her permission. Do you have any ideas for how to approach her about it?

A manuscript evaluation is a roadmap to a book’s future. It can sometimes replace a developmental edit, and it provides the author constructive critique on every element of their book, including (as needed) structure, tone, consistency, voice, flow, titles, permissions, and sensitive topics. It also answers the author’s specific questions. I include publishing advice in my manuscript evaluations for authors who want it.

If you could give a first-time author who’s midway through a book manuscript one piece of advice, what would it be?

Stay connected to the heart of your story, especially during the rough patches. There will be moments of doubt, but if the story feels meaningful to you, trust that there’s a reason you’re writing it.