Book Coaching and Editing Services

No one knows your story better than you

But a fresh set of eyes and a different point-of-view can help unlock your novel and take it from good to great.

As a book coach and developmental editor, I can help you keep your novel moving forward, brainstorm when you’re stuck, and shape your finished draft into a powerful story.

Book coaching by Lisa Manterfield

Here are some ways I can help:

  • Book Coaching

    Book Coaching

    Keep your novel moving forward with regular accountability and feedback.

  • Developmental Editor

    Developmental Editing

    Take your manuscript to the next level with in-depth analysis and feedback.

  • Creativity Coaching

    Creative Boost

    Get motivated, solve story problems, or brainstorm ideas with these focused one-off sessions.

  • Writing Workshops

    Workshops & Classes

    Join me for group classes and workshops for writers.

Book Coaching

Writing is deep, emotional work.

It can also be lonely work.

Sometimes you need a partner to help you through the rough spots.

As your Book Coach, I can help you complete that first draft or guide you through heavy revisions. I will:

  • Begin with a kick-off meeting via video or phone to learn about your goals and vision for your book, discuss areas where you may need extra help, and decide on a production schedule that works for you.

  • Keep you accountable to your writing schedule to keep your project moving forward.

  • Provide feedback on your work to make sure your story stays on track.

  • Offer support, encouragement, and ideas when your writing hits a rough patch.

  • Celebrate your progress and, of course, completion.

  • Assist is navigating your path to publishing.

A typical schedule includes written feedback via email on up to 50 pages per month, submitted weekly or bi-weekly to suit your writing pace. In addition, I will be available for two one-hour video or phone meetings each month, as needed.

Rates from: $500/month*

*Three month minimum commitment.

Developmental Editing

When you’re ready to take your book to the next level, you need a more detailed analysis of the work and guidance toward your next revision.

As your Developmental Editor, I offer:

  • A full evaluation of your manuscript.

  • A 5-10 page editorial letter highlighting strengths of the manuscript and areas that need work, such as plot, character, world/setting, pacing, voice, and tension.

  • In-line comments to guide your next draft.

  • A 60-minute follow-up call to discuss the main areas of concentration for your next round of revisions and to answer any questions.

Rates from: $0.03 per word

"Get Unstuck" Creative Boost

Maybe you’ve hit the saggy middle of your story or you can’t figure out your ending. Perhaps a secondary character has taken over and you’re no longer sure whose story you’re telling.

Maybe you have a glut of brilliant ideas and can’t decide which one to work on first.

A “Get Unstuck” Creative Boost will get you back on track. You’ll get:

  • A 60-minute “Get Unstuck” video meeting or phone session to help you uncover your story problems and figure out what’s holding you back.

  • A writing assignment to help you find the answers.

  • A 60-minute follow-up session to fine-tune the details and get you back on track.

Rates from: $300

8-Week Publishing Intensive Workshop

Starts January 9, 2024

Shirin Yim Leos and I will be teaching an eight-week publishing intensive, Jan 9-Feb 27; 8 Tuesdays, 6:00pm-8:30pm PT, via Zoom.

This will be a hands-on, in-depth, how-to, and let’s-do-it-together kind of course that aims to have all participants leave with their strategic, pitch, and marketing plans in place, and maybe even some completed materials in hand. Some of our industry friends will also be joining us to give you the benefit of their professional experience.

You can find the complete syllabus and registration information here.

Meet Your book Coach

Lisa Manterfield: book coach and developmental editor

Over the past decade, Lisa Manterfield has published five novels, two works of non-fiction, and five non-fiction ebooks, and coached many other authors to publishing success.

She has taught writing and publishing at libraries, writing communities, and for Stanford Continuing Studies. Her work has been published in Los Angeles Times, Psychology Today, Huffington Post, and The Saturday Evening Post, and she has appeared on NPR, Sacramento & Company, and KOMO News Seattle.

She is an Independent Publishers Book Award winner, Best American Fiction Finalist, and UCLA Kirkwood Prize in Fiction nominee.