Who do you work with?
I work with indie (independent) fiction and nonfiction authors, specializing in novels, memoirs, creative nonfiction, and narrative nonfiction. I support writers at every stage (from shaping an early draft to the final polish) with developmental editing, line editing, copyediting, proofreading, and writing coaching.
What types of editing do you offer, and how do they differ?
Developmental editing — Big-picture feedback on structure, character arcs, pacing, and narrative logic. You’ll receive an editorial letter, margin comments, and revision priorities.
Line editing — Sentence-level work: tone, rhythm, clarity, and voice. I tighten prose while keeping your voice strong.
Copyediting — Grammar, punctuation, consistency, style-guide adherence, and factual checks.
Proofreading — Last pass for typos, formatting glitches, and small errors before publication.
If you’re unsure which you need, tell me about your draft and goals, and I’ll help you choose the right service.
How do you price your work?
I list starting rates on the site to give authors a sense of budget and to help filter serious inquiries. Pricing can be per word, per hour, or per project depending on needs and project complexity.
Why prices vary: manuscript length, genre, complexity (worldbuilding, research), required level of intervention, and turnaround time. After a sample or query, I provide a clear, itemized quote that explains what’s included.
Do you offer sample edits?
Yes, I offer short sample edits in many cases so you can see my approach and whether my edits feel like a fit. It’s important that my style matches your needs. Not every editor is perfect for every writer.
What’s included in a typical edit?
Each edit includes:
- A clear scope description (what I’ll do and what I won’t)
- Turnaround estimate
- Deliverables (e.g., editorial letter + tracked changes/comments)
- One follow-up call or Q&A (for developmental edits) or one revision pass where applicable (details depend on service)
I always specify what’s included in writing before we start.
How long will my edit take?
Turnaround depends on edit type and manuscript length. As a rough guide:
- Developmental edits: 3-6 weeks (depending on length and depth)
- Line edits/copyedits: 2–4 weeks
- Proofreading: 1–2 weeks
I’ll confirm exact timing in your quote and build reasonable buffers for quality. If you need a rush turnaround, ask! Rush work may carry a surcharge.
What file types do you accept?
I work primarily in Word (.doc/.docx) with tracked changes and comments. For manuscripts in Scrivener, Google Docs, or other formats we can discuss the easiest workflow. For final-file proofreads I can work from PDFs if needed, though Word files are preferred.
Do you require an upfront deposit?
Yes. I require 50% deposit to secure the booking, with the balance due on delivery. Exact terms appear in the project agreement.
What about confidentiality and contracts?
All projects include a simple service agreement outlining scope, timelines, and payment terms. I’m happy to sign an NDA on request. Your manuscript and materials remain confidential.
What is your revision policy?
I provide one round of follow-up clarification or light revision in most developmental edit packages (details vary by service). For line editing and copyediting, if issues arise within a short window after delivery, I’ll address them promptly. Major rework beyond the agreed scope is billed separately.
Do you accept royalties or revenue share deals?
No. I do not accept royalties as part of standard payment. Editing is paid work, and I keep business models separate to protect professional boundaries and ensure clarity for both parties.
How do I prepare my manuscript before sending it?
- Provide a complete draft (or clear expectations if you’re seeking per-chapter coaching)
- Double-check basic formatting (consistent font, page breaks, single file)
- Include a brief project note: genre, word count, target reader, any known issues, and what you want most from the edit
A clear brief lets me give a more accurate quote and speeds up the process.
Can you edit for genre specifics (fantasy, memoir, etc.)?
Yes. I work across fiction and nonfiction genres and will adapt to genre expectations (e.g., economy vs. lush description, worldbuilding conventions, memoir truth/ethics). If your manuscript has heavy research or technical content, flag that early in the query.
What is writing coaching?
Writing coaching is collaborative, goal-driven support designed to help you move your project forward with clarity and confidence. Unlike editing, which focuses on the manuscript itself, coaching focuses on you as the writer, including your process, blocks, decisions, and growth.
Coaching can support:
- Early-stage idea development
- Drafting momentum and accountability
- Structural or craft challenges
- Confidence and decision-making as an author
- Navigating revisions without overwhelm
It’s especially helpful if you’re stuck, second-guessing, or unsure how to approach the next phase of your book.
How is coaching structured?
Coaching sessions are typically held one-on-one via video call. Each session is tailored to your current needs and may include:
- Discussion of your goals and challenges
- Review of selected pages or excerpts (if applicable)
- Craft guidance and strategy suggestions
- Clear next steps to work on between sessions
Some writers come with pages; others come with questions. Both are welcome.
What do clients gain from writing coaching?
Clients often gain:
- Clarity around their story, structure, or direction
- Practical tools for revision and drafting
- Confidence in their creative decisions
- Momentum and accountability
- A trusted, candid sounding board
I’ll help you understand why something might not be working and offer concrete ways forward so you can grow as a writer, not just fix a single project.
How many sessions do I need?
That depends on your goals.
Some writers book:
- Single sessions for clarity on a specific issue
- Short packages (3–5 sessions) for momentum during drafting or revision
- Ongoing coaching for longer-term projects or accountability
We’ll discuss what makes sense for where you are. There’s no pressure to overcommit.
Do you offer coaching packages?
Yes. I offer discounted multi-session packages for writers who want consistent support. Packages are designed to provide continuity while remaining flexible.
Package options may include:
- 3-session bundle
- 5-session bundle
- Coaching + editorial feedback combinations
Details and pricing are available on request.
Is coaching the same as editing?
No, but they work beautifully together.
Coaching is conversational, exploratory, and strategic. Editing is text-focused and technical. Many writers use coaching before an edit to strengthen their draft, or after an edit to work through revisions with guidance and support.
If you’re unsure which is right for you, I’m happy to help you decide.
Will you rewrite or ghostwrite my book?
I’m primarily an editor and writing coach. I offer structural guidance, suggestions, and sample rewrites to demonstrate tone or approaches, but full ghostwriting is a different service and is handled case-by-case. Please inquire if you need writing beyond editing.
What makes your approach different?
I bring 15 years of writing and editing experience working with indie authors who self-publish, grow readerships, and sometimes secure agents. My edits are direct, candid, and solution-focused. I propose clear fixes and work collaboratively so your voice and intent remain central. I pair creative sensitivity with practical, actionable feedback.
Do you offer coaching or package deals?
Yes. I offer coaching sessions, combined packages (e.g., developmental edit + line edit), and multi-project discounts for returning clients. Ask about bundled pricing when you request a quote.
Payment methods and invoicing
I accept major credit cards, bank transfers, PayPal, and Zelle. Invoices are sent via email and are due according to the terms in the project agreement (usually partial deposit + balance on delivery). Late or cancelled projects follow the cancellation policy outlined in the contract.
What if I don’t like the edit?
My goal is a productive collaboration. If you’re unhappy, tell me. Let’s discuss what didn’t work and how to fix it. Minor dissatisfaction is typically resolved quickly through follow-up. If there’s a deeper mismatch about scope or approach, we’ll review options including scope adjustments or refunds per the agreement.
How do I get started?
- Use the contact form to send a short project note (title/genre/word count/what you want).
- I’ll reply with initial availability and next steps, often asking for a sample (1–5k words) to assess scope.
- You’ll get a written quote, timeline, and agreement. After deposit, we book your slot and begin.