The Quick Fix is my most affordable package, suitable for first-time authors who know what they want to say but not how to say it; experienced writers who’d like to acid-test an idea before committing to it; and writers at any stage in their creative development who’ve reached an impasse with a work-in-progress.

Here’s an example of my inline comments.
Here’s an example of my inline comments.

What You Get: An editorial analysis of your sample chapter (preferably, your introduction or first chapter) and your outline, if you have one. If you’ve roughed out a table of contents, I’ll want to see that, too. If you haven’t written an outline, I’ll need a cover letter with your manuscript excerpt—an “elevator pitch”—giving me the gist of your memoir, work of narrative nonfiction, book-length essay or essay collection, academic argument, novel, poetry collection (or whatever) and providing any context you feel I should bear in mind while reading your work. Note: The materials you submit must not exceed 30 pages.

By “editorial analysis,” I mean:

  • Inline comments (not be confused with line edits) throughout your sample text, identifying conceptual trouble spots, weaknesses in your writing, and possible solutions to both.
  • A written response, typically two to three double-spaced pages in length, cross-referencing my inline comments and expanding on them.
  • A 30-minute discussion by phone or videoconferencing, clarifying my critique. I’ll answer any questions you have and we’ll dive deeper into any aspects of my analysis you’d like to discuss.

What It Costs: My hourly rate is $50. Typically, reading your 30-page cover letter and manuscript excerpt and writing an analysis of your concept and your execution of it takes at least eight hours, depending on the complexity of your subject, your skill and experience as a writer, and the depth and breadth of editorial analysis required. Clients choosing this option should be prepared to spend $400-$600. Half of my fee is due on signing my contract; the remainder is due on delivery of my analysis. (If I expect to run over my minimum estimated fee, I’ll notify you in advance and we’ll discuss options at that point.)

Here’s an excerpt from one of my written responses

Here’s an excerpt from one of my written responses
Let’s Get Started