The Developmental Edit
The developmental edit digs deeply into the structural bones of a story and looks at its overall effectiveness, including all of the elements of storytelling. This edit is about reshaping and strengthening the foundation of your story to make it as powerful and engaging as possible. ​
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Developmental edits address such questions as:
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Does the story open with a strong hook?
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Is there a clear inciting incident?
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Is the tension/conflict strong enough to continually propel the story forward?
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Is there an effective narrative structure in place that supports the premise and themes?
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Does the narrative viewpoint work?
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Is there a clear and strong narrative voice?
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Are the characters' journeys believable and compelling?
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Are character motivations clear?
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Are the viewpoints consistent and clear?
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Is the overall pacing effective?
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Are there any gaps or plot holes?
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Where can scenes be added, cut, or rearranged for stronger impact?
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Is there an overall message or theme(s) that holds the story together?
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Is the ending satisfying, and does it bring the story to an effective close?
What to expect...
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Pre-Edit Conversation
Before I read your manuscript, we will have a pre-edit conversation to discuss your book and your goals.
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This conversation is a great opportunity to get to know one another and see if we are a good fit.
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Manuscript Comments
Your returned manuscript will also include page and line-specific comments and detailed revision suggestions (via track changes) that offer additional in-depth and specific examples of the feedback covered in the editorial letter.
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2
Editorial Letter
Once I've read your manuscript, I will write up a detailed editorial letter (16-20 pages) offering comprehensive feedback on major big-picture elements and the overall effectiveness of the narrative structure and arc of the story.
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Post-edit Conversation
After you've had a chance to read the editorial letter and the notes and comments in the manuscript, we will have our a post-edit conversation. At this time, we can discuss any questions or comments you have about the critique and/or moving forward with revisions and/or additional editing work together.
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All feedback and suggestions are there for you to consider as you move into revising your manuscript. They are meant to serve as a guide. This is your story, and you make the final call.
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However, if you decide to add additional rounds of editing, it will be most productive if you attempt to incorporate some of the revision suggestions offered in the subsequent rounds.
Contact Me
Get in touch so we can start working together.