Editing

What is a Developmental Edit?

A developmental edit is a thorough analysis of your manuscript. It focuses on big picture aspects like the story, the plot, the characters, your author voice and the structure of the story.

With nonfiction, it’s still a story, but more emphasis is on the structure of the book and how we can best help the reader.

A developmental edit will show you what’s working and what isn’t, with advice on how to improve every aspect of the book.

Authors usually have a developmental edit first, to get the story / structure right, before moving on to a copy edit or line edit and then a final proofread.

A developmental edit is a thorough analysis of your manuscript. It focuses on big picture aspects like the story, the plot, the characters, your author voice and the structure of the story.

What Does it Cover?

The edit is wide ranging and covers all aspects of your book. Each book is different, so you will receive guidance tailored specifically to your book.

But, in general the edit covers the following aspects:

POV (Point of View)
Tense
Character development
The plot
Story / book structure
Story consistency
Plot holes
Congruity of characters
Exposition / purple prose
Dialogue

What’s Included?

Extensive notes and highlights on the manuscript itself
Chapter by chapter analysis
Notes on your main characters
Notes on the structure of the book
Detailed feedback on any issues, and clear advice on how to fix them (with examples)
30+ page report. With easy to follow guidance
Once completed, I am always available for any follow up questions you may have

Add a Copy Edit

If you also want me to provide a copy edit of your book, I will do this as a separate edit after you’ve made any changes you want to make from the developmental edit.

This also allows me a chance to give you feedback on the developmental edit level changes you’ve made.

And if you book both edits together, I offer a discount!

Prices

Request a Free Sample Edit

Real Authors, Real Results

Amanda Linton

The Summer Between

US Senate Candidate and Author

Michael’s support in the developmental edit was invaluable to my story. He took the little places where I missed an opportunity in my writing to new levels, adding conflict, characterization, and imagery.

My book would not be the same if it weren’t for his edit. Initially, one of my hesitations in hiring Michael was that my book is set in the Deep South in the US and is full of typical Southern behavior & beliefs; I worried that the regionalism of the story would be missed because I wasn’t sure how familiar he was with it. In the end, I’m so glad I chose him though. That was never a issue and actually, he helped create an even more authentic story.

I highly recommend his services.

Kristen Echo

Hockey Ring

Canadian Author of 14 Novels

When I set out to find an editor, I wasn’t sure what my books needed. Michael’s approachable manner made it easy for me to ask questions, and I asked a lot. His quick responses and timelines convinced me to take a chance. I’m so glad I did. His feedback and edits are spot on.

I’ve been fortunate to have worked with Michael on fourteen books. His professionalism and eye for prose keeps me coming back again and again.

Dusty Monk

Sera’s Arrow

First Time Author

Having selected Michael as my developmental, copy, and proof editor, I’ve been extremely satisfied with his work. Scene by scene breakdowns of my entire manuscript, talking about what’s working, what’s not, and why. Additionally, great advice on the structure of the book overall, and helping me shore up some of the weaker sections. I’d strongly recommend Michael on terms of quality, promptness, and value across the board.

Some Favorite Works

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