Developmental Edit
A developmental edit is the whole picture: what your story is doing, what it's trying to do, and where those two things diverge.
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The samples below are from an edit I did on a novella I wrote in 2010 -- a manuscript I hadn't opened in sixteen years. I figured I should be willing to eat my own cooking.
What you get
Annotated manuscript
Book map
Editorial letter
What I examine
The Idea
I examine the core premise and central argument of your work. Is the high-level concept compelling, and does it sustain interest throughout the entire manuscript? I look for the heart of the story to ensure it beats clearly through every chapter.
The Characters
I explore character motivations, arcs, and relationships. Are your protagonists active drivers of the plot? Do their choices feel authentic to their established traits? I help you ensure your characters are memorable, complex, and true to your vision.
The Structure
This is where I look at pacing, plot sequencing, and story architecture. I identify structural weaknesses, such as lagging middles or rushed climaxes, and suggest ways to tighten the narrative engine to keep readers turning pages.
The Delivery
Finally, I evaluate the narrative voice, tone, and point-of-view consistency. While not a line edit, we examine how the prose serves the story's themes. I ensure that your unique voice is heightened and that the delivery matches the emotional intent of your work.