Comprehensive Developmental Editing for Your Novel
Following two thorough read throughs of your manuscript, I will provide you with detailed marginal notes, light in-line edits, and a letter summarizing my feedback. Like your manuscript’s big sister, I will compassionately point out flaws, provide guidance as you revise, offer suggestions, and be your creative problem-solver!
What’s Included:
Here’s how I’ll help you make your story shine utilizing a comprehensive developmental edit:
I’ll do a deep-dive of your manuscript reading through at least twice and taking comprehensive notes on pacing, characters, plot lines, world building, and the other magical details.
I’ll provide detailed marginal comments with thoughts, perceptions, questions, etc. I know marginal comments always make me kick my feet in delight while I edit.
I’ll provide light track changes markup with minimal editing suggestions. This service is not intended to replace copy editing or proofreading. I will be focused on story rather than grammar and punctuation.
When I’m done reading your work, I’ll write at least 10 pages of notes provided to you in PDF format report summarizing the feedback with my suggestions on how to approach a revision for you next draft.
Once you review my notes, we will schedule our included 60 min Zoom call to discuss any questions and tactics for moving forward.
Due to the level of detail involved in a developmental edit, I only offer it for 1) completed manuscripts that 2) have gone through at least one round of self-edits.
Optional additions:
After the completion of your developmental edit, you are always welcome to email me with questions. However, if you would like to discuss something more in depth, I would be happy to set up additional zoom calls with you to discuss live.
30 min Zoom session $100 (in addition to price per word)
60 min Zoom session $200 (in addition to price per word)
If you would like me to work on a sequel or later work in a series, I charge $0.008/word to read the previous book(s) in the series. Without knowing the series as a whole, I cannot offer accurate developmental editing for a later book.
All prices are in accordance with the Editorial Freelancers Association pricing guidelines.
Developmental editing that honors your vision and helps your story shine.
You’ve poured your heart into your book. Now you’re ready for honest, compassionate feedback that helps it land with the impact you know it’s capable of. You want someone in your corner that has the energy of a best friend, but the quality, critical feedback of a book reviewer or agent who will help lift your story to the next level. So, honestly, more like a big sister. My developmental editing services are crafted for writers who want to make their manuscripts as commercially viable as possible and desire support that feels like a creative partnership in our hyper-critical and often negative world.
Depending on the size of your project, my bandwidth is limited, so reach out now to see if I’m the right fit for your book.
I am currently booking Fall/Winter 2026 for writers who would like a deadline on a project they are currently drafting.
Here’s why developmental editing is the secret potion to take your book to the next level …
Writing a novel is challenging enough. Shaping it into something readers can’t put down? That’s where developmental editing comes in!
Here’s how I can help you craft a page turner you’re proud of:
Craft characters that linger in your readers’ minds. From your main character to your supporting cast, let’s give them plenty of depth and clear arcs. We’ll make sure they’re not just ‘doing things’—they’re making readers feel things. We want your readers coming away not only empathizing with them, but screaming, crying, and rooting for them from page one to The End.
Balance plot structure, pacing, lore, and world-building like a pro. Whether you’re writing a slow burn romance or fast paced epic fantasy, we’ll smooth out the bumps and make sure your story flows just right (no whiplash and no yawns).
Build tension, not just conflict, that compels readers to stay up until the sun rises. We’ll dial up the stakes and let that delicious slow burn simmer until it finally explodes. Chef’s kiss.
Highlight your core themes so your story drives deep to the heart. Not sure if it all ties together? Don’t stress - developmental editing helps you weave meaning through every chapter.
Unlock your authentic voice and storytelling style. This is about amplifying your voice and what you want out of the story, not turning your book into something it’s not. Your humor, your heart, and your magic will be front and center (and my priority).
Develop dynamic dialogue that sings. Let’s bring out the banter, sculpt double meanings, and give each character a voice that makes them leap off the page and into your readers’ hearts.
We’ll work great together if:
You have a finished draft in one of my specialized genres: High/Low fantasy, Dark fantasy, Romantasy, Historical Fantasy, Urban/Contemporary fantasy (however, for the right project I am willing to review books in other genres - I have experience in all).
You are looking for an editor who will hype you up, honor your novel’s vision, and help you move forward toward finalized drafts ready for line/copy editors, and eventually publication!
You are ready to receive constructive, supportive feedback that will help take your novel to the next level.
Fight For The Fairytale Editorial is a one woman show! When you book, you will be working with writer and screenwriter, Colleen H. Ochab. As a fantasy fanatic, I can’t wait to explore the world of your projects!
I love helping fellow writers bring their stories to life! There is room for all of us on the bookshelves of the readers of the world, and frankly, we need more quality stories being brought to screen.
You don’t walk alone because “Warriors Walk Together”.
Can’t wait to connect with you!