Developmental Editing & Coaching Services
Struggling to find your voice? Not sure if your draft accomplishes what you intended? Thinking about revision but not sure where to begin?
For writers of fiction and nonfiction who would like supportive and structured feedback on work in progress, I offer developmental editing and coaching.
I love working with writers who want a fresh pair of eyes to let them know what’s already working well and where a piece could be strengthened. My editing and coaching style is kind and candid, rooted in respectful collaboration with you, the writer. Throughout the process, you retain ownership of your writing.
Testimonials
“Please, if you are a writer at any stage of development and are given the opportunity to have editorial/coaching guidance with Hannah, know that you are in for a treat. Don’t we all want someone who is able to tell us exactly what she heard when reading our creation? She spends much time, and with great detail, encourages the development of our writing skills . Hannah finds the jewel in the rough and gives her all-in support of what works while also helping us find what furthers and deepens our story. “ ~Mary G. Tillinghast
“Hannah has kindly worked with me as an editor on two chapters of my memoir. Her expert analysis of themes, characterization, metaphors, voice, dialogue and pacing has been invaluable in showing where and how improvements in the writing can be made. Her advice on stylistic points and idiomatic langue has been well appreciated. Hannah is very generous with her commentary and time and our Zoom interaction was useful and fun. Recommended.” ~Karel Fontaine
“Hannah’s feedback on the beginning of my memoir gave me the courage to keep writing. Not only did her editing capabilities exceed my expectations, but Hannah cared about my writing and my story. Thank you, Hannah.” ~Claire Gleeson, Australia
“Hannah, I guess coming back to you for more is a testimony to your respectful and sensitive ways of holding and guiding my writing. In conversation with you, I became aware of the blocks in my writing. The resource suggestions you have provided has been immensely useful for going back and fleshing out the writing’s meaning and reflections. Thank you.” ~ Angela Ranallo
“As a novice writer I was apprehensive about sharing aspects of my memoir. Hannah’s editing was extremely thorough and delivered in a compassionate voice. Her guidance increased my confidence as well as expanding my skill. Hannah was also efficient in delivering a very extensive edit in a short time frame. I’d welcome the opportunity to work with her again and highly recommend her services.” ~ Donna-Lee
“I really love your comments and insights. You have gotten the 30,000 foot view and then homed in and grasped the essence of my story. You have found a way to synthesize what this convoluted story is about, sometimes in ways that have surprised me.” ~ Angie Katsikas
“Hannah helped me my story develop more robustly and clearly. She showed me how to set the sequence of events logically and suggested reading that helped me gain insight into more nuanced and purposeful writing. The more we worked together, the more I understood the importance of the past through my pages. She has helped me become a better writer. Hannah is a worthy coach.” ~ Immy Kwuon
Let’s Get Started
Contact me now at wildfernwriters@gmail.com to discuss your project and editing needs.
I look forward to working with you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is developmental editing?
Developmental editing focuses at the level of the story, the chapter or the essay; it looks at the big picture. It considers the overall structure, character development, setting, narrative arc, dialogue, plot, pacing, and themes.
What isn’t developmental editing?
Editing comes in many flavors; it’s important to get the kind you need. Development editing is not copy-editing. It doesn’t mark or correct sentence-level problems, such as grammar, spelling, punctuation, syntax, etc. Nor is it proof-reading for typos, consistency of verb tenses, repetitious use of words or phrases, etc.
What does your editing process entail?
My goal is to support you in achieving your vision for a particular piece of writing. You will receive two close reads, detailed typed marginal comments, and an Editorial Letter. Specific feedback will identify strengths, offer suggestions for revision, and respond to your questions about the piece.
What happens after I receive your feedback?
After you receive my feedback, if you would like to have a face-to face conversation about marginal comments and/or the Editorial Letter, we can arrange a 60-minute Zoom meeting at a mutually convenient time for an additional fee. This is a great option to clarify any points and develop a strategy for revision or next steps.
Rates?
Rates depend on the length and complexity of the piece. I strive to offer reasonable rates. Drop me a note now at wildfernwriters@gmail.com to set up a complimentary phone or Zoom chat to discuss your work in progress.
I look forward to working with you!