Book Coaching
Book coaching is an intimate form of one-on-one creative support, tailored to each writer’s needs and goals.
Some writers like to connect over Zoom to talk. Some writers like to use their hour to get in-depth editorial feedback on a piece of writing. If connecting in-person, we can: brainstorm ideas around what to write and why; discuss craft aspects such as character development, narrative strategy, plot and scene-work, perfecting on a line level; discuss revision or feedback; strategize around submission and a compelling query letter. We can create realistic writing plans and goals. I can be an editor, a mentor, an accountability partner, a teacher or a cheerleader—or all five.
Some writers prefer not to connect in person, but to use the time getting in-depth editorial feedback, in the form of in-line notes and a summary of editorial suggestions.
Some writers want a few one-off sessions, some writers prefer a bi-weekly or monthly engagement.
My ultimate aim for you is submitting a publishable book to a reputable agent who will work with you to try and sell your book. Or, if self-publishing, to set you up for success around a launch day, or breathe new life into an already published book.
Interested? A 15-minute introductory call is FREE.
Cost: $250 for a one-off session. For three sessions, cost is $600. Each in-person session is 60-minutes. Prior to each session, I can read up to 2,500 words of prose or 1,250 words of outline/ summary. See FAQs. Sessions never expire!
Which writer are you?
The Newbie
You are a beginner. You’ve never tried to write a book, but the idea is calling you. Could you? Should you? Yes and yes. Anyone can write and sell a book—it’s not for a mystical elite. If a story or an idea has come tapping at your brain, I want to help you bring it to life. I’ll help you discover your genre, then guide you through outlining, drafting and editing your book. You can write and sell a book!
The Drafter
You are already writing a novel, or have written a first draft. You may have completed workshops, classes, or self-study to have a good grasp on the basics. But writing is lonely, and you need a thought partner to kick around ideas, talk through plot holes and possibilities, and stay motivated to finish. I can help you elevate your ideas into a manuscript your ideal agent will request.
The Expert
You already have a complete draft of at least one novel. Maybe it didn’t sell and you’re gearing up to do it all again. Or maybe you’re preparing to dive into a revision. You have a solid grasp of craft and feel that your taste and talent have never been more aligned. At this level, we can discuss advanced techniques to polish your prose into a best-seller with broad appeal.
Interested? Email me now to book your FREE 15-minute introductory call!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I send you something to read prior to our call?
A. Prior to each session, I can read up to 2,500 words of prose (ie. fiction/creative non-fiction) or 1,000 words of outline/summary/synopsis (ie. a description of the writing). Please format using industry standard: double-spaced, 12pt standard font like Times New Roman, standard margins, first line indent,. 2,500 words is roughly 8 - 9 pages, 1,000 is about 4 pages, but use the word limit as your guide (search for Word Count in your word processing program). This reading is included in your session: no extra charge.
Q. What if I need you to read more than that?
A. Additional reading is charged at $200 per hour, starting with a 30-minute minimum. Let me know your page count and type of writing (prose or summary) for a custom quote.
Q. What happens if we connect in person?
A. For in-person sessions, connect in a quiet place where you can focus. We’ll connect via Zoom so the session can be recorded for your reference, but it’s up to you whether you want the camera on or off. I’ll send a Zoom link and Google cal invite prior to the session. After our session, I’ll send you a link to the recording. We can discuss a project, brainstorm ideas or plot holes, ask questions related to craft or publishing etc.
Q. What happens if I just want editorial feedback on my writing?
A. Some clients prefer to spend the time getting in-depth editorial feedback on a piece of writing. So, instead of connecting over Zoom, I’ll use your hour reading and producing in-line notes (comments) on a work-in-progress. In a typical one-hour session, I can edit up to 2,500 words of prose or 1,250 words of an outline or proposal, and provide a one-page summary of editorial feedback that highlights the piece’s strengths and provides insight into what needs attention. My editorial style is craft-based, practical, and encouraging. I provide editorial feedback, not copy-edits (you can copy-edit/proof your writing online for free!). Multiple sessions can be combined for longer reads. Feedback is sent via email.
For all clients, I offer a 10-minute window of reading time prior to our session. I can read up to ten pages (double-spaced, 12pt font) of prose, or five pages of outline/summary. That’s just a read, not editing: I don’t return the pages with feedback, if we’re connecting in-person for the full hour.