Developmental Editing

Transform Your Draft Into a Masterpiece

Every great book has a sharp editorial mind behind it. As your developmental editor, I become your book’s secret weapon — refining your structure, sharpening your voice, and guiding your story to its highest form. This is where good drafts become unforgettable books.

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FEATURED IN…

“Amy was the gift my book needed! I had written a memoir but it lacked a voice and emotion. Amy quickly found my voice, found my sub themes and rewrote my memoir. She brought me to tears when I read her rewrite outline as it was exactly what I had wanted and needed for my story. Amy works quickly, meets every deadline she sets and was so tapped into my vision and my story. The investment was worth every penny! She is incredibly talented and a pleasure to work with.”

— JEANNE, ENTREPRENEUR

My Developmental Editing Process

FREE DISCOVERY CALL

We’ll start with a complimentary discovery call so I can understand your goals, your draft, and your vision for your book. I’ll review your manuscript and ask thoughtful questions to get aligned before proposing a custom roadmap tailored to your project.

PROPOSAL AND PROJECT COMMENCEMENT

After reviewing your draft, I’ll send a detailed proposal and project quote. If it’s a fit, we’ll formalize our collaboration with a contract and invoice — then get to work.

THE DEVELOPMENTAL EDIT

Every developmental edit includes two key elements: in-draft comments and a detailed editor’s letter. You’ll receive a marked-up version of your manuscript with constructive notes throughout, as well as an in-depth letter outlining structural feedback, narrative opportunities, and specific suggestions to elevate your book. These materials give you clear direction for your next revision — while preserving your voice and creative intent.

GHOSTWRITING SERVICES

Need help rewriting or expanding a section? I offer ghostwriting support that mirrors your existing tone and voice. Whether you’re stuck or short on time, I can step in and write alongside you — invisibly, intuitively, and on-brand.

LINE-EDITING SERVICES

For an additional cost, I can provide a line-editing pass to tighten sentences, smooth transitions, and elevate your prose. I also flag any inconsistencies to ensure your manuscript is polished and publication-ready.

TAILORING AND THE FINAL PROOFREAD AND POLISH

In the final stage, I bring in a trusted member of my editorial team for a fresh proofread. I’ll also tailor formatting for agents or self-publishing, so you leave with a clean, refined, and submission-ready manuscript.

PUBLISHING STRATEGY, BOOK DESIGN, AND NEXT STEPS

If you’re unsure how to publish or what’s next, I’ll walk you through options based on your goals — whether that’s traditional publishing or self-publishing. I offer honest, experienced insight to help you navigate your next chapter with confidence.

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FAQ

What is developmental editing?

Developmental editing is a high-level editorial process that evaluates structure, pacing, character development, themes, and scene flow. My job as your editor is to elevate your draft into its most compelling form — while helping you maintain your authentic voice.

How much does developmental editing cost?

Because every book is different, every proposal is custom. Some manuscripts need deep restructuring. Others call for nuanced refinements or major tonal shifts. That’s why I begin with a call — to understand what stage you’re in and how I can best support your vision. Developmental editing is a five-figure investment. If you’re serious about your book’s success and want it to resonate with your readers, this is the level of care and clarity it deserves.

👉 Ready to invest in your book’s future? Let’s talk.

When should I hire a developmental editor?

Once you’ve taken your draft as far as you can, it’s time to bring in a pro. I work with both polished manuscripts and early drafts — wherever you’re at in your process, I can meet you there and help you shape what’s next.

Are there any other book editing services I might need outside of developmental editing?

Most editors only specialize in one area — but I’m your Swiss Army knife. I combine developmental editing, ghostwriting, and line-editing into a seamless process, and bring in my trusted team for proofreading and polishing when needed.

How long does a developmental edit take?

Timelines vary depending on the scope and needs of your manuscript. Once I’ve reviewed your draft and we’ve aligned on the approach, I’ll share a clear timeline as part of your custom proposal.

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WHAT MY CLIENTS ARE SAYING

"I have talked to many author about my book before settling on Amy. Amy has a very creative way to make your story a reality the way you want. She is very patient and asked all the right questions as I am not the easiest person to understand. I would recommend anyone to Amy."
"If you are lucky enough to get a chance to work with Amy, grab it! She is a pleasure to work with, and quickly steered me in the right direction. The only way it could have been better is if I had found her a year earlier! Her communication is fantastic, she is reachable and makes herself available. She delivered everything ahead of schedule. Her insights have been invaluable. The best way to sum it up is that when I reviewed her details, I decided to pay 4 times what I had been planning to pay, and it was a very wise decision!"
"Amy is phenomenal. A true professional who goes above and beyond! Her insight, writing ability, experience, professionalism, creativity and feedback were invaluable for my project. I wish there were more than five stars because she deserves it. I'd definitely hire her again!"
"Hire Amy... that's all that needs to be said. Whatever copy materials that you are looking for, Amy will get it done at the highest caliber of quality. She is excellent with her communication, thorough research and she really knows how to nail exactly what you're looking for. My only advice is to provide her with as much detail as you possibly can and it'll produce the best results. I can tell that Amy prides herself on being the best in the business even if she would prefer to humble herself and say she's only ONE of the best. But no, She IS the best!”
"I couldn't be any happier with Amy's work on my project. She is an amazing writer. She followed my brand messaging guide to a "T" and she is extremely efficient with her time. She has excellent intuition and will find just the right words to communicate your message to your target audience."