Editing is an important relationship that will help elevate your manuscript through a collaborative process. There are several types of editing, each of which involves unique skills and knowledge. You want to ensure that the editor you choose has experience in your genre and that the two of you have a meeting of the minds on the end results you are looking for.
I offer developmental editing specifically for memoir manuscripts. In addition to information about me and my processes, I’ll include a TL;DR at the bottom.
The Type of Editing I Offer (and Why It’s Important)
I offer what is called developmental editing or substantive editing. This type of editing should come after you’ve written your manuscript out completely, but before any other types of professional editing. (If you’re looking for help writing the initial draft of your manuscript, you may be better served by investing in book coaching or ghostwriting services.) Developmental editing looks at the big picture elements of your manuscript and discusses ways in which they can be improved or altered to increase its cohesion, voice, message, or impact. Developmental editing comes with comments in the manuscript and an editorial letter covering the elements that may need to be addressed.
Developmental editing is important to make sure all the loose ends are tied up in your manuscript and to ensure that it comes across well and powerfully.
I specialize in editing memoirs and have dedicated years of study and professional development to hone my skills. I’ve taken several courses over the years and read books to study things like memoir structure, how to enhance an author’s voice in a memoir, how to find and develop a memoir’s theme, and more.
Even though the idea of giving your manuscript – especially if it feels like a child of yours – can be scary, you can rest assured that it will be in good hands. I make it a point not to be harsh in my critiques; I provide constructive criticism, but I always keep your emotions in mind as the author. There’s no point in tearing you or your manuscript to shreds; that usually makes people, especially more sensitive people like authors tend to shut down, which is counterproductive. Instead, I provide critiques with actionable steps to make improvements, the kinds of comments that are a lot more helpful in the long run.
TL;DR
Editing is a collaborative relationship.
I only work with memoir and have studied it for years.
I only offer developmental/substantive editing so I can focus on improving big-picture elements.
I value collaboration and constructive criticism; you should too.
Both of us have no obligation to work together until a contract is created and signed.
Testimonials
I’ve had many satisfied clients throughout my years of editing. Here’s what some of them had to say after working with me.
“I engaged Hannah for structural editing on my book ‘Lightbulb Moments in Human History.’ Before working with her, I had a collection of chapters in need of re-organisation and feedback. Hannah helped me look at my work with new eyes. She quickly understood the scope of the work and identified missing pieces of the puzzle. A better, more cohesive manuscript was the result. I thoroughly recommend Hannah’s services.” – Scott W.
“Hannah edited my full manuscript and did an amazing job! She will give your work the love and care it needs and offer constructive criticism that helps bring it to life. I would 100% have her as an editor again.” – Amanda C.
Disclaimer
I reserve the right to refuse any manuscript for any reason; if I feel like we would not be a good fit, I do not need to specify the exact reasoning behind this decision. Conversely, you have the right to work with any editor that you choose; requesting information, or even a quote, for your manuscript does not obligate you to work with me if you don’t feel like we would be a good fit.
All requests are subject to my personal availability, and will be scheduled as soon as my calendar allows.