Developmental Editing
In today's competitive publishing marketplace, you need to get your book as close to perfect as you can before you even begin looking for a publisher.
I can help.
When I do a developmental edit, first we'll consult about your hopes, dreams, and specific goals for your particular project.
I read your entire book twice, making line notes along the way. Then I write up a detailed edit letter with feedback on story, shape, character, pacing, plot, voice, and whatever else comes up as I read. Afterwards, we'll meet to discuss your editorial plan, and set you up with your revision pathway.
I also review agent query letters and book proposals.
My specialities are literary and upmarket fiction and memoir, but I do edit other genres as well.
My clients have gone on to publish with major publishing houses, including Penguin Random House, Macmillan, Hachette, and Workman.
"When I reached out to Amy, I felt like I was writing in a vacuum, unsure if my book was on the right track. During those moments of self-doubt, her time and energy were invaluable. Her keen editorial eye helped me avoid throwing out perfectly good writing, and her insightful feedback gave me clarity I needed when ideas felt scattered. On top of that, Amy generously shared ideas and resources to explore article opportunities that might build momentum towards my book launch!" -Vanessa Chakour, author of Earthly Bodies: Embracing Animal Nature (Penguin Random House, 2024)
Contact me for more information and rates.
Creative Coaching
Stuck in a creative rut? There's something between going it alone and committing to an MFA program: this individualized coaching plan. Whether you're working on a book, or looking to commit or recommit to your creative practice, my coaching package can be tailored to your needs.
We'll have 6 weekly or biweekly meetings, which can be hour-long Zooms or calls.
In between our meetings, you can send me up to 5k words of writing -- either something you're working on, or responses to generative prompts I provide. I will add some light line notes. During our meetings, we'll discuss what you have and how to keep going.
If you'd like more editorial feedback, we can arrange this and the price will change according to how much of my time is required. And if you'd like to keep going after our initial 6 sessions, we can arrange that, too!
Clients have gone on to develop their creative practices, get into MFA grad school programs, sign with agents, hone their book proposals, and publish in outlets including Jezebel, LA Times, Tablet, Katie Couric's Wake Up Call, Funicular, and Human Parts.
“Amy’s feedback was essential in strengthening my writing and my pitch. She helped me get my agent!" - Dr Stacy Wentworth, author of Cancer Culture and creator of the podcast Less Radical
Contact me for more information and rates.
Classes
I teach creative writing classes for Writing Co-Lab, Sackett Street Writers Workshop, and Yale Writers' Workshop.
Check back for upcoming workshops.
Try the asynchronous Writing for Women on the Verge here!
It includes weekly emails with inspiring readings, generative prompts, and access to an exclusive online community.
“The best environment to write with freedom! I love it so much. Ideas are born in this space. Frustrations are let go!
Thank you to Amy!”