Working on a novel or a nonfiction manuscript? Developmental editing is about the big picture: structure, pacing, argument, and voice.
If you partner with me, you can expect a thoughtful read of your work and an editorial letter that explains what’s working, what’s not, and why.
A former academic and a traditionally published novelist with HarperCollins, I know the joy of a professional editor “getting” my vision and helping me actualize it.
I’ve also experienced the disappointment of being misunderstood and edited with no hint of empathy. That’s why I lead with warm curiosity, to help you find clarity and confidence for next steps.
What I Edit
- Fiction: middle grade and YA novels, contemporary or grounded fantasy, with an eye for character, structure and pacing
- Nonfiction: prescriptive nonfiction, research-based books, and big idea projects geared toward a wider audience
Ready to get started? Or have a few questions?
Getting Started
I begin by reviewing a sample of your project. This allows me to scope it accurately and get a sense of your style. I’ll use this to walk you through my process, so we can decide if we’re a good fit for each other.
This review also helps guide final pricing and timing, as different manuscripts require different levels of support.
- For fiction, I’ll read a sample from the beginning. The first ten pages or up to 2,500 words.
- For nonfiction, I review your outline and/or table of contents, plus one sample chapter.
A note on AI: I do not upload, share or process client manuscripts using AI tools. Your work is always read and edited by me.
Developmental Edit – The Big Picture
For: A manuscript, fiction or nonfiction, ready for a close, structural read.
What’s included:
- A full read of your manuscript
- A book map – a chapter-by-chapter view of your work’s structure
- A detailed editorial letter including big picture notes and craft guidance
- One 30-45 minute follow-up call to talk through the feedback together
Not included: line editing, copyediting, in-manuscript annotations, unlimited revisions, or formatting/ production work.
Typical turnaround: Most manuscripts (up to 65,000 words) take 4–6 weeks, depending on length and genre. Fiction tends to move faster, nonfiction typically takes longer. Beyond that range, add about one extra week per 10,000 words.
Investment: $0.030–$0.035 per word (fiction) or $0.040–$0.050 per word (nonfiction), based on a minimum of 10,000 words. Word count is rounded to the nearest 1,000 words for pricing purposes. After a review of your manuscript sample, I’ll confirm the final scope and price before we begin.
Manuscript Assessment – Broad Strokes
For: Writers who want feedback before committing to a full Developmental Edit. This is a lighter touch, not a deep structural pass.
What’s included:
- A full read of your manuscript
- A brief editorial letter identifying key strengths and opportunities
- One 30-45 minute follow-up call to talk through the feedback together
Not included: line editing, copyediting, in-manuscript annotations, prescriptive craft guidance or detailed revision strategies, unlimited revisions, or formatting/ production work.
Typical turnaround: Most manuscripts (up to 65,000 words) take 2–4 weeks, depending on length and genre. Fiction tends to move faster, nonfiction typically takes more time. Beyond that range, add about one extra week per 15,000 words.
Investment: $0.015–$0.018 per word, based on a minimum of 10,000 words, rounded to the nearest 1,000 words.
The “Reader Reax” Package
For: Writers who want a reader’s reaction to their manuscript. Not a formal edit, just a read on what’s working and what isn’t.
What’s included:
- A full read of your manuscript (as a reader)
- A completed beta reader evaluation form
- Responses to up to 5 guided questions you provide
Typical turnaround: 1-2 weeks
Investment: Projects are $5 per 1,000 words (fiction) or $6 per 1,000 (nonfiction). After a review of your manuscript sample, I’ll confirm the final scope and price before we begin.
Every project is a little different…
Many factors (length, timing, author needs) influence the scope. Let’s talk about your specific project.