FAQ

I am a developmental editor. Unlike copy editors-who take a manuscript that has already been developed and subject it to a much more technical process focusing on elements such as spelling, grammar, punctuation and formal style-developmental editors are more concerned with the big picture. We look at many elements including voice, setting, narrative structure, and pace to see how it all comes together. Like a doctor diagnosing a patient, developmental editors need to figure out how to help a manuscript reach its full potential, while keeping the author’s own voice and vision intact.

While it is always a good idea to share your writing with writing groups and other unbiased readers, there is tremendous value in getting a professional and objective opinion from someone with real industry experience. Agents don’t always have the time to take on a manuscript with big problems. Therefore, many of my clients come to me before they start submitting their work to agents. Other clients have already submitted manuscripts and received nicely worded but vague rejections in return or plan to independently publish and want to present the best work they possibly can. I can help you pinpoint where there may be problems as well as offer suggestions to improve and polish your work.

There’s no guarantee working with me will get you traditionally published. That’s something no freelance editor can guarantee, but I can help you produce a much more commercial manuscript. Plus, the techniques that you learn from working with me will stay with you over your entire writing career.

My specialties are crime fiction and romance, but I have experience working on a wide range of commercial fiction. Please feel free to email me a short synopsis of your project and I’ll let you know if I can help.

It is very important your query letter and your synopsis are clear and concise and that they put your manuscript in the best possible light.  I have read thousands of submission packages over the course of my publishing career. I can tell you exactly where your submission package is lacking. After we work together on your submission package, I am available for questions and recommendations as you start searching for a literary agent, although I do not make direct connections.

Often an author finishes writing their book only to realize that was the easiest part. Publishing can be a very confusing business. I worked for over ten years as an in-house editor at two of the top publishing houses, and during a 1-hour phone call I will answer all of your questions about the publishing process. I can also help if you plan to publish independently. I charge $100 per 1-hour phone call. Please email me for more details or to schedule a phone consultation.