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Developmental editing aims to help the author identify and solve big-picture storytelling issues. This stage does not focus on grammar, spelling, punctuation, or sentence structure.

Rate: $0.035 per word.

For when the bones are there—but the structure needs strengthening.

A developmental edit examines the core of your story: plot, pacing, character arcs, worldbuilding, theme, and overall cohesion. My role is to analyze your manuscript with both a reader’s intuition and an editor’s eye, ensuring your vision is fully realized—with clarity, creative intention, and your voice intact.

This edit is especially helpful if you’ve completed a draft and want strategic, in-depth feedback to guide revisions—whether you’re planning to query or self-publish.

We work together to align your manuscript with both your creative goals and your publishing ambitions.

Process
Initial Read-Through
I begin with a full read-through of the manuscript—no edits, just focused attention. This helps me assess the narrative flow, pacing, and character dynamics from a reader's perspective before diving into analysis.

Chapter-by-Chapter Commentary
Next, I move through the manuscript in order, using Microsoft Word Track Changes to leave in-line comments. I’ll flag moments that affect narrative cohesion, character believability, tonal shifts, and pacing. These comments offer specific, practical ways to strengthen the story scene by scene.

Structural Evaluation
I assess the manuscript’s overall framework—timeline, subplots, and arc progression—mapping connections to identify gaps, weak threads, or misaligned beats. This helps us build a stronger foundation before your next draft.

Synthesis & Strategy
I compile all insights into a detailed editorial letter that explains what’s working, what needs revision, and why. My goal is to give you a roadmap you can actually revise from—not just a list of problems, but a strategy for how to move forward.

Deliverables

1. Editorial Letter
   A comprehensive report (10–20+ pages) analyzing your manuscript’s strengths, challenges, and opportunities for development. Organized by element (e.g., plot, structure, character, theme), with revision strategies, rationale, and examples to guide your next draft.

2. Reverse Outline
   A spreadsheet that maps your manuscript’s structure—plot beats, subplots, timelines, and character arcs—so you can see how everything fits together. It’s a visual reference to help you identify gaps and track revisions efficiently. (Also very handy if you’re writing a sequel.)

3. Annotated Manuscript
   In-line comments throughout the manuscript using Microsoft Track Changes. These point out where suggested revisions apply in real time—especially where structure, tension, or clarity can be improved on the line level.

4. Email Follow-Up
   After delivery, I offer email support to answer questions, clarify suggestions, and help you prioritize revisions. I want you to walk away from the edit with confidence—not confusion.
   

Quotes are in USD.
A 30% deposit is required at the time of booking.
Payment plans are available.