You did the hard part. You wrote the story. Now let’s make sure it’s as powerful as it deserves to be. If something feels off, we’ll dig into it. If something is working beautifully, we’ll amplify it. I’m not here to rewrite your book or strip away what makes it yours. I’m here to help you strengthen it, sharpen it, and elevate it. This is collaborative. It’s strategic. And it’s focused on helping your story land with real impact.
What Is Developmental Editing?
Developmental editing looks at your manuscript as a whole. We step back and evaluate how every piece of your story is working together.
Instead of focusing on grammar or sentence-level polish, we analyze:
- Plot structure and story cohesion
- Character motivation and arc progression
- Scene purpose and narrative flow
- Pacing and tension
- Stakes escalation
- Emotional impact
- Genre expectations and market positioning
Who This Is For
Developmental editing is ideal if:
- You’ve completed a full draft
- You’re preparing to query or self-publish
- You know something feels “off” but can’t pinpoint why
- You want strategic, craft-focused feedback
- You’re ready to revise with intention
If you’re unsure whether you need a beta read or a developmental edit, I’m happy to help you decide.
Deliverables Include:
- Inline comments throughout your manuscript (Google Doc, Word, or PDF) with structural notes, pacing observations, and targeted suggestions
- A comprehensive editorial report outlining strengths, areas for improvement, and a clear revision roadmap
- Optional 1-hour follow-up Zoom or email conversation to discuss next steps and answer questions
You’ll walk away knowing exactly what’s working and what needs refinement.
Pricing
Developmental editing is priced at $0.01/word.
Example:
A 65,000-word manuscript X $0.01/word = $650.
A non-refundable deposit of 20% of the total project cost is required to secure your spot on my calendar. The remaining balance is split between manuscript submission and final delivery.
Because developmental editing is such an in-depth process, I limit bookings to 1 manuscript per month. I’m currently accepting inquiries for:
May
How It Works
Step 1: Pre-Booking Call
Before any payment is made, please schedule a 30-minute discovery call so we can confirm we’re a strong fit for each other. This helps ensure your manuscript and my expertise are a good fit before moving forward. Calls are 100% confidential.
Step 2: Deposit & Scheduling
Once I confirm fit, a non-refundable deposit of 20% of the total project cost (Stripe or PayPal) secures your spot on my upcoming editing schedule, typically within 21 days. This deposit is applied toward your total developmental edit cost.
Step 3: Editing Agreement
You’ll receive an editing agreement outlining scope, deliverables, timeline, and payment terms. This agreement must be signed before work begins so expectations are clear on both sides.
Step 4: Manuscript Submission
After the agreement is signed, I’ll confirm your official submission date (this can be adjusted if necessary). An additional 30% of the total project fee is due at manuscript submission (bringing the total paid to 50%).
Step 5: Editing
I’ll complete the edit and prepare deliverables. This step can be as hands-on as you’d like. Want regular check-ins during the process? I’m happy to provide them. Prefer to receive everything at once? That works too!
Step 6: Final Delivery
Once your developmental edit is complete, I’ll email you to confirm your materials are ready, along with the remaining balance invoice. Final deliverables will be released once payment is received in full.
Together, we’ll make sure the feedback you receive is focused, practical, and exactly what your story needs. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I return all emails within 24 hours.
Testimonials
“Gloria edited my 60k romance novel and did an exceptional job. I really appreciated her attention to detail and her ability to look at the manuscript from both an editorial and reader’s perspective.” J. Maya, Contemporary Romance Author (Upwork)
“Great job! The level of detail is what I was looking for in an editor. Very professional and will continue to use her on all future projects.” M. Howard (Upwork)
“Gloria was an excellent editor/ beta reader. I enjoyed working with her and hearing her feedback. Would definitely hire her again for another contract in the future.” A. Rivers, Devour (Upwork)