Developmental Editing for Fiction

Whether you’re preparing your manuscript for agents or publishers — or refining it for publication — developmental editing strengthens the foundation of your novel. This is a comprehensive, big-picture edit focused on how your story is built and how its elements work together.

What Developmental Editing Addresses

I examine the structural and narrative elements that shape your manuscript, including:

Plot and narrative arc
Character development and character arc
Pacing and narrative tension
Point of view
Setting and atmosphere
Structure and overall cohesion

The goal is to clarify what’s working, identify areas that need further development, and provide clear, strategic direction for revision.

What You Receive

A detailed editorial report (approximately 5–10 pages)
In-text margin comments throughout the manuscript
Clear, actionable guidance for revision

The report addresses both structural design and narrative effectiveness, helping you move forward with clarity and confidence. This service is available to individual authors and publishing houses.

Rates

Developmental Editing – Fiction
$0.03 per word 80,000 words: $2,400

Custom quotes available upon review.

First Chapter Analysis

The opening chapter determines whether a reader — or an agent — keeps reading. This focused review evaluates your hook, pacing, character introduction, conflict establishment, and narrative direction.

What You receive

A written assessment
Detailed in-text comments

Rate

Up to 3,000 words: $250
Additional words: $0.03 per word

Short Story Developmental Editing

A short story demands precision.

This service examines structure, narrative focus, character development, language, and atmosphere to ensure the story functions as a cohesive whole.

What You Receive

A concise editorial report
Detailed in-text comments

Rate

$0.03 per word
Minimum project fee: $300

Ready to Move Forward?

If you’re preparing your manuscript for submission and would like professional, structural feedback, I’d be pleased to connect.

Visit the Contact page to get started.