Strengthen the core of your manuscript before the polish begins. Developmental editing, also known as structural or substantive editing, focuses on the big picture of your manuscript. At this stage, we analyze your book’s foundation to identify and address major issues, ensuring it flows logically, captures readers’ attention from start to finish, and fulfills your creative vision—whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction.
What I Focus On
For Fiction
- Plot structure and pacing
- Character development and arcs
- Point of view consistency
- Worldbuilding and setting
- Theme and emotional impact
- Dialogue authenticity
- Scene purpose and tension
- Narrative flow
- Plot holes or unresolved threads
For Nonfiction
- Clarity and strength of the central argument or thesis
- Development and support of key ideas
- Chapter organization and logical progression
- Use of evidence and examples
- Reader engagement and accessibility
- Pacing and clarity of information
- Balance between depth and breadth
- Alignment with your intended audience and goals
My approach is collaborative and respectful of your voice. I provide clear, actionable feedback that helps you revise with confidence. I do not rewrite your manuscript. Instead, I show you where it is working well and where it can be strengthened.
What You Receive
In-text comments throughout your manuscript highlighting strengths, concerns, and specific revision suggestions.
A detailed editorial letter, typically 8 to 20 or more pages depending on length and complexity, that includes:
- An overview of what is working well
- Big-picture recommendations for improvement
- Prioritized revision guidance
- A practical, step-by-step roadmap
- Responses to any specific questions you have
One round of follow-up discussion by email or phone to clarify feedback and discuss next steps.
Is Developmental Editing Right for You?
This service is ideal if you have completed a solid draft but want to strengthen structure, clarity, and overall impact before moving on to copyediting or proofreading.
It is especially helpful for authors who are:
- Preparing to query agents
- Planning to self-publish with professional standards
- Committed to producing a clear, engaging, and well-structured book
Who I Work With
I provide developmental editing for:
- Novels in any genre
- Biographies and memoirs
- Business and leadership books
- Technical guides and how-to manuals
- Other nonfiction projects that require strong structure and clear communication
Editing Rates
Story Galley 