"A Secret Word is a remarkably subtle and nuanced coming-of-age novel, which captures the dreamy rhythms of adolescence between staccato moments of crisis as three perfectly ordinary and utterly memorable young southern women find themselves transported inexorably into the cosmopolitan landscape of womanhood. While many first novelists wave their arms and stamp their feet to get our attention, Jennifer Paddock seduces the reader with the narrative equivalent of a raised eyebrow or the almost imperceptible nod of the head. At the end the reader is inclined to ask of the writer as well as her characters—what’s next?”

Jay McInerney, author of Bright Lights, Big City

"A Secret Word is whole in a way that most of the kind are not; it resonates. That's partly because the three women at the center of the story are so memorable, their lives so inexorably linked, and partly because Paddock writes like Raymond Carver with a bigger heart––simple, graceful but tough, always with an eye on the possibility of redemption." 

Michael Knight, author of Goodnight, Nobody

"Jennifer Paddock’s writing is the result of the wise and sure work of a fine mind and steady hand.  It is lean and clear in the way poetry lends its best to fine prose."

Brad Watson, author of Aliens in the Prime of Their Lives

"Poignant and true, Paddock’s language evokes the elegiac way lives play themselves out. Her characters are vividly alive, for she writes with her heart as well as her hands."

William Gay, author of Twilight

“In The Weight of Memory, Jennifer Paddock returns with a delicately nuanced story of friendship and identity. The setting of Alabama's Gulf Coast is rendered with quiet eloquence, as are the strained relationships among three women whose lives intersect years after their childhood friendship faded. A riveting novel about memory, the meaning of home, and what we are willing to leave behind.”

Michelle Richmond, author of The Year of Fog

“There is something about Paddock’s writing that defies conventional description. The closest word I can summon is ‘magic’."

Melinda Haynes, author of Mother of Pearl

As a novelist with three published books — A Secret Word and Point Clear (Simon & Schuster; A Secret Word also published by Penguin UK) and The Weight of Memory (MacAdam/Cage) — and an M.A. in Creative Writing from NYU, I offer thoughtful, in-depth consultations for fiction and memoir writers.

My approach is both editorial and personal: I read closely, listen for the work’s intent, and help you see what’s strongest — and what’s holding it back. Whether you’re preparing to query agents, polishing a draft, or finding your way into a new project, I tailor my feedback to where you are and where you want to go.

Work with Me

Every manuscript begins as a conversation — between what you’ve written and what you’re still trying to say. My role is to listen closely to both. I approach each project with curiosity, care, and an editor’s eye for rhythm and shape. The goal isn’t to impose a formula but to help you hear your own work more clearly, so you can finish it on your own terms.

Services

Mini Consultation – $160
For writers wanting first impressions or early guidance.
- Up to 5,000 words (about 20 pages)
- Margin notes + brief summary letter
- 30-minute Zoom or phone conversation

Partial Manuscript Review – $375
For a deeper dive into your opening pages and story direction.
- Up to 25,000 words
- 2–3 page editorial letter on strengths, pacing, character, and tone
- Optional 45-minute follow-up call ($60 add-on)

Full Manuscript Consultation – $1,300
For writers ready for a full read and comprehensive feedback.
- Up to 80,000 words
- Detailed editorial letter (4–6 pages)
- Broad structural and stylistic notes
- Optional Zoom discussion ($100 add-on)

Deluxe Mentorship – $2,200
For writers seeking ongoing dialogue over multiple drafts.
- Full manuscript read
- Line-level notes and margin comments
- 60-minute initial meeting + two follow-up calls
- Priority scheduling

How It Works

After you reach out by email, I’ll reply with availability and a few questions about your goals for the consultation. Once we agree on scope, you’ll submit your manuscript as a Word document (double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman).

Turnaround time typically ranges from 3 to 6 weeks depending on project length. Payment is due upon booking.

If You’re Ready to Begin

If this approach resonates, you can reach me at jenniferlpaddock@gmail.com. Tell me a bit about your project — what it is, how long it runs, and what kind of feedback you’re hoping for. I’ll reply with availability and next steps.

Every story is at a different stage; the work is simply to meet it where it is.

About Jennifer Paddock

Jennifer Paddock is the author of A Secret Word and Point Clear (Simon & Schuster; A Secret Word also published by Penguin UK) and The Weight of Memory (MacAdam/Cage). She earned her M.A. in Creative Writing from New York University, where she studied with A.M. Homes and Edwidge Danticat. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Garden & Gun, The North American Review, South 85 Journal, and other publications.