An editorial assessment will identify the book’s overall strengths and weaknesses. This is a good first step to take if you’re looking for a broader evaluation and guidance. I’ll read through the entire manuscript and provide in-depth feedback on:

• the premise or hook
• plot and structure (for fiction)
• argument and analysis (for nonfiction)
• character or content development
• setting
• point of view and dialogue
• voice and style
• pacing
• market viability

You’ll receive a detailed editorial letter and I’ll help you devise a revision strategy to make your book the best it can be.

A developmental edit is a comprehensive big-picture review and edit of your book. The goal is to ensure high-quality storytelling that keeps your intended audience in mind. I’ll work with you to resolve any issues with:

• the premise or hook
• plot and structure (for fiction)
• argument and analysis (for nonfiction)
• character or content development
• setting
• point of view and dialogue
• voice and style
• pacing

You’ll receive two separate documents: your marked-up manuscript with specific suggested changes, comments, and questions embedded in the margins; and a separate detailed editorial letter assessing the manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses and suggested revision strategies.

A line edit is a close read of the manuscript at the sentence and paragraph level. I’ll address any awkward or unclear phrasing, wordiness, redundancies, anachronisms, clichés, weak dialogue, lack of transitions, verb tenses, points of view, and more. This is not a full copyedit, but I will correct errors in grammar and spelling that I come across. I’ll also call out any remaining big-picture issues.

A proposal assessment is a critique and edit of your query letter, synopsis, and the first chapters of your book. After nearly twenty-five years as an acquiring editor at publishing houses, I’ve read countless proposals and know what agents and editors look for. I will provide notes on voice, tone, content, presentation, and more. I’ll also provide feedback on the book’s market viability and advice on next steps.

Whether you’re just getting started or are looking to find an agent or publisher for your finished manuscript, I’ll help you devise a publishing strategy tailored to meet your goals. After nearly twenty-five years working as an acquiring editor at publishing houses, I’ve seen it all and I’m happy to share what I’ve learned. We’ll work together over a period of a few weeks, or a few months, and I’ll provide support, advice, and editorial feedback.

Do you have a great story, but don’t know exactly how to tell it? As your ghost writer, I’ll work closely with you to capture your vision and transform your idea into a professional, commercially viable manuscript ready to submit for publication or to self-publish. We’ll tailor the process to your specific needs and throughout I will share chapters as I finish to ensure that you end up with the manuscript you envisioned.