Developmental Editing

Do you have a full manuscript in need of a professional eye?

If so, I can help. I’m a certified book coach and developmental editor passionate about helping writers shape their ideas into stories other people want to read.

“Jessica shares a perfect balance of what she loves from your story, highlighting where your writing shines and then pointing out where your words are not grabbing her the way they should. What I appreciate most is that her critiques are bold, and she does not hold back, inviting the author to also be bold and try something new after 2 to 7 rounds of rewrites. Jessica's support and encouragement has reignited my drive to keep editing and keep pushing to publication.”

— NATASHA BUFFO

What is developmental editing?

In a hierarchy of editorial concerns, this level of editing is primarily concerned with the following:

  • the story has a point and a purpose

  • there is an arc of change (story arc or narrative arc) which in memoir means the author has clearly learned something or come away changed

  • it’s clear what the protagonist wants, what stands in her way of getting it (conflict) and what will happen if she doesn’t (stakes)

  • the protagonist is a fully developed character and her emotions are fully on the page

  • the tone and voice is compelling

  • the plot is believable and the author is credible

  • the structure makes sense and serves the story

  • the timeline is clear and logical

  • the author is showing instead of telling

  • the dialogue and narration are balanced

  • and more!

What is your editing style?

I believe editing is like mentorship. The way I see it, my job is to ask questions of the work to gently guide the writer toward a better understanding of what isn’t working and why. My job is not to provide the answers for how to fix it, though I often make suggestions or move things around to use as teaching examples and hopefully inspire the writer to come up with solutions of their own.

Editing Services

  • Manuscript Evaluation

    I’ll read your full manuscript carefully and provide a detailed editorial letter outlining what’s working well, plus my suggestions for improvement.

  • Query Letter Review

    I’ll provide detailed editorial feedback on your one-page query letter and send it back to you for revisions. Then I’ll take a second look to make sure everything is perfect!

Join the Waitlist

“Working with Jessica is like giving your writing a strong ally. Not only does she provide insightful feedback on specific craft elements, such as character development and narrative arc, she is also deeply interested and supportive in the story you wish to tell.”

—WILEY WEI-CHIUN HO

“Jessica is a dream beta reader—equal parts kind and fierce. She’ll put you at ease even as she encourages you to take bigger, braver writing risks.”

—NATALYA SAVKA

“Jessica does a fantastic job with giving perspective that has the ability to help you tease more out of your writing. She is adept at giving feedback that helps to not only push you to broaden your skills as a writer, but also helps you to better understand your own voice within your work, a powerful asset for any writer!”

—HOLLY BECK

“Working with Jessica is affirming and encouraging. Jessica is affirming as a kindred writer and appreciates the nuanced challenges that arise on and beyond the screen. She's encouraging with creative expression helping to sharpen craft knowledge in a welcoming, supportive atmosphere. Whether you're an emerging or established writer, you'll benefit from Jessica's editorial services!"

—BECKY GILES GREEN

“I had the pleasure to work with Jessica while she did developmental edits for my memoir. I love that she is a fellow female traveler and recognizes the importance of our personal stories by specializing in memoir. From introductory call through the editorial letter for my manuscript she was very communicative, kind, and understanding. Her feedback was potent and thoughtfully worded and will ultimately help shape my story for the better. I would recommend her to anyone (especially a woman!) who needs guidance or encouragement on their writing journey.” 

—MACEY HALLSTEDT

FAQs

  • For manuscript evaluations, my turnaround time is generally 4-6 weeks. Once I have your draft, I'll take a look at everything and get back to you with an estimated return date. I try to give updates on my progress throughout so you aren't left wondering if I've even started it yet!

  • Yes. My education, experience and interests lie in the memoir and autofiction spaces so these are the genres that best match my unique skillset. I do not edit genre fiction or traditional nonfiction.

  • Yes, I do! If you're interested in getting a professional eye on your essay, query, or book proposal, reach out and I'll get back to you with my timeline and rates.

  • Absolutely not! I wish I could, but nobody can promise that. The publishing industry is very subjective, and there are no guarantees even for already successful authors.

    However, I can promise you that through dedication, guidance and a lot of heart, both your writing and your confidence will improve. And both are key ingredients to publishing.