Mentorship Program General FAQ

Who can apply for the mentorship program? The program is open to all CWC members in good standing. Applicants must have a completed full-length manuscript in the crime or mystery genre (including sub-genres like noir, cozy mystery, thriller, etc.).

Does it matter if I want to self-publish? Not at all. We support all publishing paths—traditional, indie, and hybrid. We pair you with a mentor who understands and respects your chosen route.

What does "completed manuscript" mean? For this program, your manuscript should be a finished draft (start to finish). While it doesn't need to be "perfect", the mentorship is designed for revision and polishing, not for writing the initial draft.

How are mentors and mentees matched? Matches are made by the Mentorship Committee based on genre, the specific needs of the mentee (e.g., pacing, world-building, or business advice), and the mentor’s area of expertise.

Can I request a specific mentor? We cannot guarantee a specific match. Our goal is to find the best possible fit for your manuscript's success.

How long does the program last? The program runs for eight consecutive weeks.

What is the time commitment? While schedules are determined between the mentor and mentee, you should be prepared to spend several hours on revisions and meetings. Typically, pairs meet (virtually or by phone) three times during the length of the program.

Is this an editing service? No. A mentor provides high-level feedback, industry guidance, and craft suggestions. They will not line-edit your entire book or proofread for typos. The goal is to teach you the skills to improve your own work.

Will my mentor help me find an agent or a publisher? No. Mentors are not agents and cannot guaranteed a contract. They can provide you with the advice to navigate the submission process professionally.

What happens if the partnership isn't working? We have a formal Code of Conduct and a conflict resolution process in place. If a pairing is not a good fit, the Mentorship Committee will step in to mediate or find a solution.

What happens after the eight weeks are over? Once the program concludes, the formal mentorship ends. However, our participants remain a part of the CWC community and continue to support each other as peers.

Is there a cost to participate? There is $25 fee if you are accepted into the program as a mentee.