query package critiques.

My query critique services are here for writers who have written at least one first draft of their query or synopsis and have a polished manuscript ready for submission. (If you are still developing your query or synopsis, these edits would be most helpful once a solid, polished draft is completed.)

While these editorial packages will help improve your querying package, they cannot guarantee that you will receive an offer of representation. (I wish I were that powerful, but sadly I am not.)

Please use the form at the bottom of the page to contact me about which package/critique you are interested in and I’ll get back to you promptly!

sensitivity reads and consultations.

A sensitivity reader is a person who reads and reviews work to ensure that the representation of marginalized people, experiences, and cultures are accurate. Sensitivity reading includes a thorough read-through of material to ensure that the depiction is ethical and nuanced. Should any problems occur, a sensitivity reader will offer solutions and potential edits. Sensitivity readings do NOT include editorial feedback on general grammar, storytelling, or other editing aspects.

My work as a sensitivity reader is based on both my lived experiences and research I’ve found on said experiences and identities. However, every person and experience is different, and my knowledge is by no means exhaustive. However, I will do my best to spot and improve problematic and/or inaccurate elements of storytelling. Should I encounter something that is outside of my area of expertise, I will make note, but cannot delve in further as I would not want to give feedback outside of my expertise.

Please note that my sensitivity read is NOT a public endorsement of your work, and simply a professional service rendered.

When contacting me, please use the form at the bottom of the page and include details about the project you would like me to read for, including a general synopsis, word count, and any possible deadlines.

areas of expertise:

• ethnicity: African American representation

• sexuality: Lesbian/sapphic representation

• neurodivergence: Representations of anxiety and depression

Full Sensitivity Read

This includes a full readthrough of your manuscript/script and a one- to two-page editorial letter of feedback.

• For one area (example: African American representation only): $0.005 per word

• For two areas (example: sapphic and African American representation): $0.006 per word

• For three or more areas: $0.007 per word

For Works 10,000 words or less:

• For one area (example: African American representation only): $60

• For two areas (example: sapphic and African American representation): $70

• For three or more areas: $80

Sensitivity Consultations

Consultations consist of an hour-long Zoom or audio call. I will not be reading or reviewing written content, however, I can answer questions about the development of a project or manuscript, as it relates to one of the areas of expertise listed above.

A consultation would be most helpful for books or projects that are at the beginning stages of development, or for any abstract questions that are not yet put to paper. Three or more broad questions would be enough to make the most of this time.

Consultations are a flat rate of $100.

testimonials.

“Working with Ashia was 100% smooth sailing and a wonderful experience. She made time for an easygoing but very informative consultation on branding and sent me a document with the points we touched on so I didn’t have to frantically take notes or worry about forgetting something, and left me plenty of room to ask questions as we talked. Her query critiques were kind and extremely helpful, the perfect nudge to make my basic query more exciting and add a lot more voice than I’d had before. Lastly, her response time and communication from beginning to end were fantastic, so I never felt forgotten or rushed.” — Sabina B.

"Ashia was really attentive and insightful with her feedback! I asked for a sensitivity consultation, and we were able to have a productive conversation about my project's plans. I appreciated that she thought through all of the details and met my writing where it's at. She not only gave her opinions but also the opinions of what other readers could have, which is very useful. I plan to ask her to read my full story once it's finished!" — The author of Outlanders’ Journey

"Ashia was just the person I needed to help me with some questions I had about characters and plot. Every question I asked her was met with a thoughtful response that was not only extremely helpful, but illustrates how much she cares. It was such an amazing experience and I would 10/10 do it again!" — Alycia F.