Developmental Editing

Do you have a polished project in need of a professional eye?

If so, I can help. I’m a writer, memoir mentor and developmental editor who helps writers shape their ideas into stories other people want to read.

What is developmental editing?

In a hierarchy of editorial concerns, this level of editing is primarily concerned with the following:

  • the story has a point and a purpose

  • there is an arc of change (story arc or narrative arc) which in memoir means the author has clearly learned something or come away changed

  • it’s clear what the protagonist wants, what stands in her way of getting it (conflict) and what will happen if she doesn’t (stakes)

  • the protagonist is a fully developed character and her emotions are fully on the page

  • the tone and voice is compelling

  • the plot is believable and the author is credible

  • the structure makes sense and serves the story

  • the timeline is clear and logical

  • the author is showing instead of telling

  • the dialogue and narration are balanced

  • and more!

“Jessica shares a perfect balance of what she loves from your story, highlighting where your writing shines and then pointing out where your words are not grabbing her the way they should. What I appreciate most is that her critiques are bold, and she does not hold back, inviting the author to also be bold and try something new after 2 to 7 rounds of rewrites. Jessica's support and encouragement has reignited my drive to keep editing and keep pushing to publication.”

— NATASHA BUFFO

What is your editing style?

I believe editing is like mentorship. The way I see it, my job is to ask questions of the work to gently guide the writer toward a better understanding of what isn’t working and why. My job is not to provide the answers for how to fix it, though I often make suggestions or move things around to use as teaching examples and hopefully inspire the writer to come up with solutions of their own.

Editing Services

  • Developmental Editing

    If you have a finished manuscript and need help taking it to the next level, then you’re ready for a developmental edit. I’ll review your manuscript for the big-picture story elements (listed above). I will read it carefully, utilizing both in-line comments and tracked changes along the way. I will also include a detailed editorial letter outlining what’s working well and suggestions for revision.

  • First Pages Review

    Are you ready to pitch agents and send your first pages out into the world? I’ll review and critique your opening pages and provide feedback (both marginal comments and end notes) tailored to your publication goal for the work. If you’re ready to submit, you know how important it is to wow them on the first try. Don’t skip editing!

Contact Me

“Working with Jessica is like giving your writing a strong ally. Not only does she provide insightful feedback on specific craft elements, such as character development and narrative arc, she is also deeply interested and supportive in the story you wish to tell.”

—WILEY WEI-CHIUN HO

“Jessica is a dream beta reader—equal parts kind and fierce. She’ll put you at ease even as she encourages you to take bigger, braver writing risks.”

—NATALYA SAVKA

“Jessica does a fantastic job with giving perspective that has the ability to help you tease more out of your writing. She is adept at giving feedback that helps to not only push you to broaden your skills as a writer, but also helps you to better understand your own voice within your work, a powerful asset for any writer!”

—HOLLY BECK

“Working with Jessica is affirming and encouraging. Jessica is affirming as a kindred writer and appreciates the nuanced challenges that arise on and beyond the screen. She's encouraging with creative expression helping to sharpen craft knowledge in a welcoming, supportive atmosphere. Whether you're an emerging or established writer, you'll benefit from Jessica's editorial services!"

—BECKY GILES GREEN

“I had the pleasure to work with Jessica while she did developmental edits for my memoir. I love that she is a fellow female traveler and recognizes the importance of our personal stories by specializing in memoir. From introductory call through the editorial letter for my manuscript she was very communicative, kind, and understanding. Her feedback was potent and thoughtfully worded and will ultimately help shape my story for the better. I would recommend her to anyone (especially a woman!) who needs guidance or encouragement on their writing journey.” 

—MACEY HALLSTEDT