Testimonials

Writing Coach Clients and Critique Partners

1) Margaret's edit notes are thorough and tough, but fair. She provided a balance of encouragement and constructive criticism that really helped me get from first draft to final. And her industry know-how and advice has really helped me in the publishing process. I definitely couldn't imagine getting through this without her.

---Author Abby Wheeler
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2) I've worked with various editors and Margaret is definitely someone very special. I appreciate her careful eye and expertise for UF/PNR books. Everything from pacing to world-building and anything in between, she's been very helpful for me to navigate through the landmines that await creating a better book. She's thoughtful, patient and knows how to communicate opportunities for improving your story without making you cry on your keyboard. Get an editor who can help you grow as a writer. Get Margaret!

----Author Kharma J. Kelley

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3) After only one session, Margaret had diagnosed four major problems with my plot and suggested workable fixes. After two sessions, we had done a scene-by-scene outline for the first half of the book and I was feeling confident that I could finish my revisions and have a book that would sell. Margaret Bates is a miracle worker and I would recommend her to any author struggling with making their plot pop!
-------------Anne from Truth in Fantasy
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4) "Margaret gave great insight into the minds of future potential readers and her critiques were honest, helpful, and easy to understand."
-------------Leigh Goff, Author of Disenchanted and Bewitching Hannah
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5) Even previously published authors need review! I recently submitted a new manuscript and while the publisher loved my writing, she identified that my manuscript needs some fine-tuning before we move forward.  She labeled some key issues she wants me to work on for my second draft.

Having Margaret on board for review, she’s been able to track and pull out the finer details that make all the difference. She’s also been able to identify specific weak plot points, which echoed identically to the publishers request for change. With her help, I am able to make changes, tighten the story line, and deepen character development. I am very impressed with her history of knowledge in the craft of writing and am thankful for all of the recommendations she’s given me along the way.
-----------Alexa Jacobs, Author of The Dreamer and Rising Ridge
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6) When Margaret Bates analyzes my writing, I know she’s going to zero in on everything from poor word choice to gigantic plot holes. I know she’s going to question my characters’ motivations and emotions, and make suggestions that strengthen the overall arc of the story.

Margaret is good at seeing what works as well as what needs a tweak or a complete overhaul. She reads with wisdom, sensitivity and a sense of humor. Her careful critiques have helped move my first novel from manuscript to publication.
-----------Mary K. Tighlman, Author of Divided Loyalties
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7) Margaret is one of our most talented writers. She is fantastic at character development and creating exciting romantic scenes that make readers swoon. If you are looking to create a story that readers absolutely adore, then Margaret is the perfect coach.
-----------Ant Iacovone, Upwork Client for over 3 years.
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8) It's amazing how Margaret can find things in my work that need improving even after I've read it a dozen times. I get excited each time I read her critiques because I know my novel is going to be better after I incorporate her suggestions. My favorite thing about working with Margaret is that she points out what works, as well as what doesn't, encouraging me to further develop my strengths and improve my weaknesses.
-----------Kristie Wolf - RWA member and critique partner.
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9) Margaret Bates helps an author create a world readers can fall in love with. Her eye for detail polishes a work into a fine jewel. What a pleasure to work with her.
----------Kimberly Butler, RWA member and critique group partner
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10) Margaret proofread my self-published story on a tight deadline. She was thorough and fast, and suggested a few minor changes that improved the story overall. My book is better than it would have been, thanks to her keen attention to detail. Thank you.

She's also has given thoughtful feedback on a second manuscript now. She has saved me from making countless mistakes! I highly recommend her editing services


----Author Carrie Lomax, author of Say You'll Stay and Say You Need Me.

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