Editorial Services + Book Coaching
Hi, I’m Amy.
With decades of experience producing polished and precise content for global software brands, I am turning my efforts to books.
I look forward to learning about your project!
Services
How I can help
Whether you’re starting with an idea or revising your manuscript, here’s how I can help you bring your best work to the page.
Manuscript evaluation
A manuscript evaluation, typically done in the early stages of a book editing process, provides an author with feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of their manuscript or a set of chapters. It is a detailed report with actionable recommendations to improve the narrative for the next draft.
Developmental editing
Developmental, or substantive, editing is evaluating content at its structural level. A developmental edit is a deep partnership with the author to help shape the narrative, whether fiction or nonfiction, to meet its goals for the intended audience. This edit happens before a copyediting pass since it’s very likely the draft will change. I always want to minimize rework to save costs for authors.
About
From tech docs to book coaching
I’m a lover of words who found my home in technical communications when I moved to Seattle after college. I’ve worked as an editor, team leader, and content designer (a fancy name for a user interface writer) for over twenty years for top global software brands, including Microsoft and Dell.
Along the way, I edited the novels of friends and dreamed of one day spending my time helping creative authors publish the best book they can. Now I’m working to make that dream come true.
My approach
If you work with me, know that I ask a lot of questions!
I arm myself up front with the information needed to complete your project to the best of my ability. I like to get to know my clients while ensuring we primarily focus on the work you’re paying for. I appreciate transparency and will offer the same to you; I give honest feedback even when it’s hard. If I commit to a deadline, I will make it or renegotiate it ASAP when necessary.
Process
I use revisions in MS Word (or Google Docs if preferred) and add comments to ask questions and clarify changes. For manuscript evaluations and developmental editing, I provide additional summary feedback separately.
Rates
Rates vary depending on document length, complexity, and turnaround time. See the Editorial Freelancers Association rates for a sense of the typical fees.
I bill by the page, project, or hour. Every project is unique. I’ll provide a detailed quote once I review a short sample of your work.
Contact
What’s your project?
Please provide the following details about your project. I will generally reply within 24 hours. Typically, I’ll schedule a call to assess whether I can help you, especially the first time we work together. If you’d like to discuss your project first, feel free to schedule a call.
Prefer to email directly? Reach me at ten.occirat@yma.