Developmental editor and manuscript evaluator for literary fiction, memoir, self-help, and nonfiction by founders and experts. I work at the structural level to clarify what the book is trying to become. I do this through full developmental edits, flat-rate manuscript assessments, book coaching, and ghostwriting.
I'm the author of seven books, hold an MFA in creative writing from New Mexico State University, and have spent two decades helping writers finish: ten years leading international writing immersion retreats, several as Head of Content leading a seven-person editorial team in the software industry, and current private practice with first-time and multi-book authors. I'm equally at home in a lyric memoir and a technically demanding founder book, and unusually comfortable with the manuscript that's finished but not quite working.
My core engagement is a Manuscript Assessment. I provide a full read, an 8–12 page editorial letter covering structure, pacing, and voice, a practical revision map, and a 45-minute call, delivered in three weeks at a flat rate. Every project begins with a free read of the opening pages, so we both know it's a fit before anything is signed.
First-time authors welcome; honesty guaranteed. More at stephenlloydwebber.com/assessment.