My services:
I primarily provide manuscript consultations on completed novels. My editorial wheelhouse is writing with a literary bent in any genre (social realism, speculative fiction, historical fiction, mystery, thriller, etc.).

I also provide consultations on:

  • short stories,

  • creative nonfiction pieces,

  • MFA writing samples, and

  • partial novel manuscripts.

I also provide long-term coaching for works-in-progress.

I love customizing a plan that fits your needs, so please don’t hesitate to reach out. 

My approach: 
I believe a project clicks when its big-picture craft elements—structure, narrative perspective, plot, etc.—and its smallest details all work in concert to achieve the author’s vision. When I read your work, I start by asking not, “What’s currently working and what isn’t?” but “What does the writer seem to want this project to be and do, and how can it get there?” Sometimes an element that’s not currently succeeding is actually vital to the project and the rest of the work needs to rearrange itself around that element. Sometimes the characters and plot and themes are all there, but a different structure could deliver the entire story more clearly and powerfully. I read for vision and potential, not just for what’s currently on the page. (Though I also provide a lot of in-line notes!)

What to expect:
For manuscript consultations, a typical collaboration looks like this:

  1. You reach out to me here to share a bit about your project and send me the first 5 pages so I can get a feel for your work and ensure we’ll be a good fit for each other. 

  2. I respond within 48 hours to provide a timeline and quote for working together. 

  3. We have a 10-20 minute introductory call. You submit payment and send me your manuscript. 

  4. I read your manuscript within 3 weeks. You receive: 

    • A 5-10 page editorial letter highlighting what I see as your manuscript’s strengths and distinctive qualities, as well as the areas where you might revise and further develop the project.  

    • In-line comments throughout your manuscript, noting what’s really working and why, and flagging elements like: pacing, clarity, opportunities for digging deeper, potential cuts to tighten your prose, etc. 

  5. Within a week of receiving your feedback, we meet for a 60-minute phone or video call so you can ask additional questions and we can talk about how to approach revision. 

My experience:
I love doing this work and bring to it deep understandings of both craft and the marketplace. I have:

  • Received an MFA in fiction from the University of Virginia, where I was a Henry Hoyns Fellow.  

  • Taught creative writing at the University of Virginia, Williams College, Gotham Writers (NYC), and WriterHouse (Charlottesville)

  • Worked in the editorial department of a Big 5 publishing house 

  • Served as the fiction editor of Meridian literary journal

  • Contributed numerous reviews to the New York Times Book Review

My pricing:
Per word, with the rate dependent on the type of project. Please submit your project details below for a quote.