The Process
1) Intake and goals
We begin with a brief exchange about where you are in the process and what you want from the edit. If there are particular concerns (structure, pacing, character, voice, stakes, clarity, category, proposal positioning), I tailor the read accordingly.
2) Full read with page notes
I read the full manuscript (up to around 350 pages) and provide detailed page notes throughout. These notes address craft issues and revision opportunities, and just as importantly, they highlight what is already working well — moments of strength in voice, characterization, structure, or tension that should be protected and built upon.
3) Editorial letter and revision roadmap
You’ll receive a comprehensive editorial letter, typically 10–15 pages with specific page notes and in-text references, that balances honest critique with a clear articulation of the manuscript’s strengths and suggestions for improvement. The letter addresses:
what is working at a deep level and why
narrative structure and pacing
character development and emotional movement
voice, tone, and point of view
tension, stakes, and momentum
clarity of intention: what the book is trying to be and how to bring that forward
a prioritized revision roadmap, so you know where to begin and how to proceed
4) Market and submission perspective
Drawing on my ongoing work as a literary agent, I also offer guidance on market readiness and positioning, including:
potential comp titles
the kinds of agents, editors, or imprints that may be a good fit
what may strengthen the manuscript and materials prior to submission
5) Query letter consultation
Query letter consultation is included. This may involve refining an existing query or developing a new one, with close attention to market positioning and alignment with the manuscript.
6) Consultation
We’ll meet by Zoom or phone for up to two hours, structured in whatever way is most useful to you (four 30-minute sessions, two 1-hour sessions, etc). Writers often use this time to talk through the editorial letter, discuss revision strategies, work through sticking points, and clarify next steps.
Advisory Sessions
30-minute consultations for focused questions and targeted feedback. I review a query letter and up to 10 pages in advance, and we use our time to address specific concerns, clarify next steps, and identify areas for revision.
1-hour consultations for a more in-depth discussion of a project’s direction and positioning. I review a query letter and up to 20 pages in advance, allowing for a deeper conversation about the work at the level of structure, voice, and overall strategy, as well as how it may fit within the current publishing landscape.
Full Manuscript Developmental Edit
A full manuscript edit is designed for writers who want a rigorous, professional read and clear next steps. I work with manuscripts at any stage of the writing process, though many writers come to me after extensive revision or workshop experience, when the project needs an industry-informed read before its next phase.
My rates are in line with those of experienced freelance editors working at a high level in the publishing industry. Each project is considered individually. To inquire about rates, please email me or use the contact form with a brief description of your project, including a synopsis, word count, a bit about your background as a writer, and what you’re hoping to get from the process.
Professional Guidelines
I am a member of the Association of American Literary Agents and follow its ethical guidelines for paid editorial work. I will not represent authors who hire me as a freelance editor or consultant, and I do not charge for editorial or consulting work for clients I represent as an agent. For literary representation, please query me through Massie, McQuilkin & Altman in New York.
Working with me does not guarantee representation or publication. All services are offered on a freelance basis, and I do not act on behalf of any publisher or other entity with which I may be professionally affiliated.