You’ve got a draft (or ideally a second or third draft), and you’re past the point where you can see it clearly on your own. Developmental editing is the big-picture edit: structure, character arcs, pacing, dialogue, thematic coherence, world-building. The question a dev edit answers is whether your story is working at the structural level, and if not, why, and how to fix it.
What I Actually Do
I read your manuscript (at least twice), and I find the patterns. My brain is an AuDHD pattern-recognition machine, and once I’ve spotted a structural thread, I can’t let it go. I’ll catch the scenes that look different on the surface but repeat the same underlying dynamic, or the motivation gap from earlier in the book that’s the real reason your protagonist feels passive now.
I’m obsessed with character work. I trained as an actor and screenwriter before I moved into editing, and it shows in how I read your characters on the page.
I specialise in speculative fiction: fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian, romantasy, gothic, and anything that builds a world alongside its characters. I’ve also worked across romance, upmarket and literary fiction, mysteries, and thrillers. The label matters less than what the story is doing.
How I work
I listen to what you’re trying to do with your story, analyse what the manuscript is actually doing on the page, and help you close the gap. You’ll get honest feedback that explains why something isn’t working yet, concrete suggestions for how to fix it (multiple options where I can), and a clear picture of what’s already strong so you can build on it.
I pay attention to market realities. If something might affect your manuscript’s chances, I’ll tell you. But I won’t ask you to sand off the weird edges to fit a mould. If you want to make your story more accessible without losing what makes it yours, we can figure that out together. The story’s integrity comes first.
Who This Is For
I’m not the right fit if you need a turnaround under 4 weeks, or if you’re looking for someone to confirm everything is already perfect. But if you want someone who’ll get genuinely excited about what your manuscript is doing well and be honest about what isn’t working yet, we’re probably a good match.
What’s Included
- At least two complete reads of your manuscript
- Detailed annotations with my thoughts, reactions, and specific suggestions in the margins as I read
- Comprehensive editorial report (typically 25-40+ pages) tailored to what your story needs most, including an overview of strengths and key opportunities, focused “zoom-ins” on specific elements like character development or pacing, and a diagnostic and revision workbook. I might also include a chapter-by-chapter analysis.
- Three months of email support to discuss the report, bounce ideas around, or get input on specific passages you’re reworking
Timeline: 6 weeks standard, adjusted for complexity and word count.
Pricing: Starts at $0.028 per word. Final quote based on length and complexity. 30% deposit upon booking, payment plans available.
Free sample edit with every dev edit inquiry.