BOOK SERVICES

Developmental Editing Packages

 

Developmental editing is The Book Don’s most popular service. My standard developmental editing package includes:

 

• Notes in the margins

• An extensive critique at the end of the book

• Follow-up consultation

 

Developmental editing is appropriate for authors with a full first draft. While each and every round of developmental editing is unique to the manuscript at hand, common focus areas include: narrative pacing, plot development, character development, scenic descriptions, point-of-view, tone, sensory descriptions, organization, syntax, and strategies for structure.

 

For nonfiction projects, I assist with identifying research gaps and incorporating reporting and interviews. 

 

Additional developmental editing services include

 

• Manuscript critiques (full or partial)

• Close readings

• Publishing assessments

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Line Editing Packages

 

For the most part, I reserve line editing opportunities for authors who have already partnered with me on developmental editing.

 

I’m a veteran line editor adept at both copyediting and line editing. My approach to line editing is creative, flexible, and visionary (as is often needed for literary fiction) while remaining rigorous and rooted in the rules of grammar and the art of syntax. As an Associated Press (AP) and Chicago Manual of Style (CMS) code shifter, I’m familiar with the peculiarities of each. (If pressed, I’ll tell you which I prefer.)

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Book Proposals

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For most genres of nonfiction, authors need a book proposal before pitching the manuscript to agents or publishers. The Book Don can ghostwrite book proposals in full, edit complete proposals, and everything in between.

 

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Querying Agents and Publishers

 

Many authors waste a lot of time and resources in their hunt for an agent or publisher. It’s always been important to me to demystify the publishing industry and assist my clients with the querying process.

 

One thing you’ll always get from me is honesty. If you’re book isn’t ready to pitch, I’ll let you know.

 

Services include query letters, synopses, and agent and publisher research. All publishing consultation services include a complimentary copy of Katherine’s popular PowerPoint presentation, "Hunting an Agent or Publisher."

 

 

Ghost Writing

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Ghost writing ranges in the level of intensity. In some cases, ghostwriting is “light,” meaning the author’s draft is relatively complete and additional passages or re-writings are minimal. In other cases, the entire manuscript is produced using only the author’s notes or author interviews.

 

The range in fees is considerable and determined on a per-project basis.

 

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Coaching and Consultation Services

 

I’m available for shorter-term partnerships to help you jumpstart your dream book idea, consult on a shorter project, or help you navigate the publishing industry. These consultations have become one of my most popular services.

 

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One-Time Publishing Consultation—$200/hr

 

My signature publishing consultation is perfect for first-time authors who desire insight into the publishing industry and the querying or self-publishing process. I will describe the ins and outs of the industry and answer your most pressing questions. It’s one hour that just might change your life!

 

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Writing Coaching Packages — $150/hr (5-hour minimum)

 

Writing coaching packages are most appropriate for:

 

• Book writers at the earlier stages of developing their manuscript 

• Content strategy and development for philanthropic foundations and nonprofits

• Writing coaching for academics who seek to improve their writing skills

• Writing coaching for businesspeople who seek to improve their writing skills

 

As your writing coach, Katherine will tailor her strategy to your particular needs. Coaching also includes cheerleading, deadline enforcement, and emotional support.

 

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Editorial Consulting Packages — $150/hr (5-hour minimum)

 

Editorial consulting packages are appropriate for clients who seek line edits on a variety of ongoing writing projects. Katherine will be available for whatever last-minute editorial needs arise, whether developing a fundraising letter, line editing a single book chapter, copyediting a blog post, researching for a presentation, or fact-checking an article.