1. MAR Literary Services (coaching & alpha reading)

What’s the difference between alpha reading and beta reading?

Alpha reading happens during the drafting process. It helps spot problems early so you don’t waste time writing in the wrong direction. Beta reading happens after revisions, when you want to know how readers respond to the story. Both are important, but I recommend starting with alpha reading and having at least three alpha readers and five to ten beta readers.

What kind of manuscripts do you work with?

I work with early-stage drafts — anything from an outline to a half-finished manuscript. This allows me to catch big-picture issues before you invest too much time. I especially enjoy genres with romance and speculative elements: romantasy, fantasy, science fiction, paranormal, cozy mysteries, crime fiction, and sometimes horror.

How much of my draft needs to be done before I can work with you?

You can start as early as the idea stage or once you’re a few chapters in. My coaching is designed for first-draft accountability and mindset support, so it’s most helpful early in the process. If you’re three-quarters through, we can still work together — just know the focus may be more on finishing strong than reshaping the story.

What does a typical coaching session look like?

Weekly sessions run 30–90 minutes and follow a simple flow:

• Check-in: We talk about what you accomplished, what felt good, and what got in the way.
• Plan the Week: We set realistic writing goals, schedule sessions, and troubleshoot obstacles.
• Mindset + Motivation: We work through fear, procrastination, and self-doubt so you leave clear and focused.

Between sessions, you’ll get a 10–15 minute check-in (text, voice, or video — your choice) for a midweek boost, quick troubleshooting, or celebrating progress.

How do I send you my manuscript?

Manuscripts are submitted through a secure shared Google Drive folder that you’ll receive after your onboarding session.

How quickly will I get feedback?

Alpha feedback is chapter-by-chapter. Once you upload a chapter, I typically review it within 48–72 hours. You’ll receive a written report and we’ll schedule a 30–60 minute feedback session to go over notes in detail. For clients who bought the alpha feedback and accountability, you get two sessions of feedback per chapter.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Payment plans are available on request — just reach out before booking so we can set one up. My product pages list monthly and per-session pricing, but we can work out a custom plan if needed.

Can I book a single session before committing?

Yes. Single sessions are available for anyone who wants to try the process before committing to a full month.

What if I’m nervous about sharing my work?

Feeling nervous is normal. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can grow as a writer. I’ll always be kind with your work, and my feedback is meant to guide — not dictate — your choices. You’re free to accept or reject any suggestion. What matters most is building a system that helps you make steady progress.

2. Maria’s Corner (Blog + Newsletter)

How often do you post new articles?

I usually post once a week, sometimes twice if inspiration strikes.

What topics do you cover?

I write about writing craft, mindset, creativity, and the writing life.

How personal do you get in your essays?

All my essays have a personal touch, but I stay focused on the topic at hand. I occasionally cover diversity or romance-genre topics when relevant, but I avoid explicit personal details.

Can I reply or comment on your posts?

Yes! I welcome thoughtful comments and questions. I do moderate for spam and harmful content to keep the space safe.

Will you ever send sponsored content?

Possibly — but only from sponsors I trust. Anything I share will be carefully vetted and relevant to my audience.

Can I suggest a topic or ask a question?

Absolutely. Your questions and topic suggestions help me create content that matters to you.

Is your newsletter free?

Yes, the newsletter is free to subscribers.

Can I read past issues?

Subscribers get access to the full archive. If you unsubscribe, you’ll lose access to those archived essays but can still read any public posts on the blog.

3. First Draft Club (Membership)

What’s included with my membership?

Membership gives you structure and support while you draft. Benefits include:

• Weekly or daily writing prompts (based on your tier)
• Member discounts on all MAR Literary Services resources
• One-on-one accountability calls (quarterly or monthly)
• Access to community updates, tips, and encouragement

When will I get access to resources?

Immediately. After subscribing, you’ll receive a promo code for five free resources of your choice plus a 70% discount on additional resources.

Are there different membership levels?

Yes:

• Explorer ($35/month): Weekly writing prompts, quarterly 1:1 coaching call, full resource access
• Champion ($65/month): Daily prompts, monthly 1:1 coaching call, full resource access
• Insider — for coaching clients only: Includes access to all membership areas plus most resources as part of your onboarding package. This tier is automatically included when you sign up for coaching.

Can I cancel or pause my membership anytime?

You can cancel anytime. Pausing isn’t available yet — if you want to return later, just resubscribe.

Will you give me personalized feedback?

Your monthly or quarterly call is for planning, troubleshooting, and staying motivated. Story feedback is not included but can be added through my separate alpha feedback package.

Feedback can also be provided in any community spaces available to you at any time. But not as part of alpha reading services. Any member can offer feedback at any time, but I can’t guarantee that the feedback will be professional.

How do I access member-only spaces?

You’ll get an email with instructions for setting up your account in the membership portal. You can reach out anytime if you have login issues.

Are the prompts and resources beginner-friendly?

Yes. Each resource includes a guide to help you use it effectively, and the prompts work for writers at every level.

Can I upgrade or downgrade my plan later?

Upgrading can be done anytime. Downgrading is possible but handled manually — just email me and I’ll take care of it.