First we’ll discuss your project (no fee) to see if we feel good about working together.
Next, we’ll determine your goals and work out a timeline to meet your deadlines. You’ll send me your manuscript, usually via email, and we'll agree on a payment, either by snail-mailed check, or on this website via PayPal.
Next, I’ll read your manuscript straight through to get a feeling for your voice and your story. We'll talk again, and I’ll begin to identify both the aspects of the piece that are already working well and those that need attention. We'll agree at that time on how best to proceed, which usually involves a line by line edit during which I make comments directly on the document as I go. I’ll be on the lookout for…
| • central theme | • a buried lead |
| • structure | • the use of scene |
| • narrative arc | • believable dialogue |
| • dramatic tension | • transitions |
| • pacing | • tonal consistency |
| • development of characters | • use of telling detail |
| • opportunities to deepen psychological material | • clarity and vividness of language |
Along with the marked-up manuscript, I’ll send you a summary letter which will identify the strengths and weaknesses of your manuscript and provide detailed recommendations for your next re-write.
You may find it useful to discuss my responses and recommendations, in which case we’ll set up time for a phone consultation.
I’m available to repeat this process for as many subsequent revisions as you find helpful, until your manuscript is ready to be launched into the world.