Book coaching is a great way to perk up a stalled project or set you up for success on a new one. I recommend one or two one-hour Zoom calls a month, depending on your own personal preference and schedule. During the calls we’ll talk through specific plot or structure issues you’re having, discuss any writing you’ve sent me, brainstorm ideas for new scenes … anything that's helpful and will keep you on track. I can also give you homework assignments between sessions if you’d like. For coaching I charge per hour based on the Zoom calls (outside reading time and answering emails is not included in the fee). I offer 3-, 5-, and 10-hour packages. Please email me for rates.
"Jessie has quite literally taught me how to write. With a gentle hand but a dictator's determination, she steered me toward my goal. Her superb editorial skills and instincts are in large part responsible for the coherence and completion of my first novel. So, if my book sucks, blame her." -- Paulina Porizkova, author of A Model Summer |
DEVELOPMENTAL EDITINGThis type of edit is best for complete, book-length manuscripts. I'll read your manuscript twice: first to get a sense of the story, plot, and structure, and then again for character development, continuity, dialogue, pacing, transitions, and voice. I’ll tell you what is working as well as what isn’t, and will give you concrete revision strategies. You'll get comments within your manuscript and a 15-20 page editorial letter outlining my thoughts and suggestions. Then we'll meet over Zoom or by phone to discuss any lingering questions and next steps. Rates for this vary and are based on the Editorial Freelance Association's fee structure.
"Jessie Sholl provided me with invaluable editing and feedback on two books, a memoir and a novel. She’s supportive but never afraid to tell you what’s not working. Think of her as a tonic for your manuscript, or a secret weapon." -- Elisabeth Eaves, author of Wanderlust, and Bare MANUSCRIPT EVALUATION Manuscript evaluation is a lighter version of a developmental edit. It’s good for manuscripts that are finished but not revised extensively yet. It assesses issues that need to be addressed and also points out what you’re doing well so you can use those examples as models going forward. I’ll address story structure, pacing, character development, voice, dialogue, and tone, among other things. This involves fewer in-text notes and a 6-10 page editorial letter. Then we’ll have a 30-60 minute Zoom meeting to go over anything that was unclear, answer any other questions you have, discuss next steps, or anything else that might be helpful!
"Jessie has been critical to my writing career. As a writing teacher, she’s helped me hone story structure and develop compelling characters. As an editor, she’s been indispensable — proofing everything from grant applications to scripts. On top of all that talent, Jessie is simply a wonderful person to work with and be around. She’s passionate, thoughtful, empathetic, and SMART. She’s the full package!" - Anita A., Screenwriter |
COPY EDITINGCopy editing addresses grammar, punctuation, spelling, continuity, and consistency (in terms of tone, style, and formatting). I always preserve the author's voice while enhancing readability and clarity. Recent projects include a soon-to-be released novel with a major publisher, and a series of articles for a health website that were migrating from print to online and switching from the Chicago Manual of Style to AP. Call me a geek, but I find copy editing endlessly fascinating! Rates again vary and are based on the EFA's fee structure.
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