Editorial guidance for novelists and memoirists ready to go deeper.
Manuscript Evaluations & Developmental Editing
A close read, not a skim. I read every page the way I'd want my own work read: slowly, carefully, and with real attention to what you were trying to do.
Honesty without harshness. I'll tell you the truth about what isn't quite working yet. I won't tell you to sound like me, or like anyone else. I'll aim to uncover the emotional resonance and the story you came to tell.
A path forward, not just a diagnosis. You won't just hear what's wrong. You'll leave knowing what to do next.
What I bring
Simply don’t want to take the next steps in your writing journey alone.
You're close enough to the story to feel what isn't working yet, even if you can't name it.
You've already built the foundation, plot, structure, the basics of craft, and you're ready to revise what's on the page.
You’re ready for this if...
*A note on genre: I work with upmarket and commercial fiction and memoir, character-driven, grounded in real life. I'm not a good fit for science fiction, fantasy, horror, or erotica.
Ways to Work Together
$500
investement
• Manuscript evaluation letter with an eye toward pacing, plot, character, narrative drive, and scene structure
• 45-minute feedback call
What’s included:
A close read of your opening pages and a detailed letter addressing what's working, what isn't yet, and where to focus your revision next. This is the place to start if you want clear-eyed feedback before committing to a full edit.
This is ideal for novel and memoir writers who want a 50-page manuscript assessment to understand if their story is structurally sound and headed in the right direction (in-line developmental edits not included).
Manuscript Evaluation
My rate for developmental editing is $0.045 to $0.075 per word, depending on the number of rounds and what's included.
investement
• Comprehensive editorial letter
• In-document edit notes
• 60-minute feedback call
What’s included:
This is for writers who have a complete novel or memoir draft and are ready to strengthen the story at a structural level—so the revision process is clear, focused, and effective.
A comprehensive edit of your complete manuscript, addressing structure, pacing, character, and narrative arc. This is deep, sustained work on the whole shape of your story.
Full Developemental Edit
"Working with Nicole is an incredible experience from start to finish. She grasps the natural heart of a story, honors the author’s vision, and strengthens it without imposing her own voice."
Thriller Writer
Craig wilhelm
"Nicole provided the support I needed to develop faith in myself and my writing. As a first-time novelist, this was extremely important in helping me cross the finish line with confidence."
Upmarket Fiction Writer
Ariel Carpenter
"Her suggestions always shine a light on the best direction for my work. Nicole is such a detailed editor who adds examples and clear guidance on how to strengthen the emotional connection between the character and the reader. She explains concepts in a way that feels natural and easy to follow."
Upmarket Fiction Writer
Nkechie O.
"Nicole’s editorial approach feels equal parts supportive and professional. She provides guidance while keeping the author’s vision in mind."
Southern Gothic Writer
Matt Cyr
Words from the writers who were in your shoes
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an evaluation or edit take?
I typically require two weeks for a 50-page manuscript evaluation and four-five weeks for a full developmental edit. All feedback calls will be scheduled to occur after written feedback is returned.
What genres do you work with?
I work with upmarket and commercial fiction and memoir. I don't currently take on science fiction, fantasy, horror, or erotica.
Is this the right fit if I'm early in my draft
Do you offer anything besides evaluations and developmental edits?
