MANUSCRIPT EDITING
I offer writing services that include manuscript editing. I give feedback, and one-on-one accompaniment for writers of memoir, creative nonfiction, essays, or novels. Writing for me is a vocation as well as a craft. It’s a call of the heart. It’s a way of life that brings to bear every dimension of the human person.
A FULL MANUSCRIPT EVALUATION AND EDIT INCLUDES:
Developmental editing: working together to shape an overall project, shape a story, and set the structure. Do you have a universal message? Who are your characters? How would you describe your book in five sentences?
Content or substantive editing involves the nitty-gritty of craft, story, point-of-view, voice, and tone. Here we’d focus on understanding the narrative, the emotions conveyed, and both the overall and chapter-by-chapter organization of the book. Memoir editing in particular requires grasping the core message and themes. It aims for a coherent and meaningful story arc. Your voice must remain authentic from beginning to end.
Seven to nine pages of notes are included. These pages contain overall feedback. There are also suggestions for changes, tightening, deletions, amplifications, and revisions. Additionally, there are remarks on story, theme, character, flow, chapter breaks, consistency, structure, dialogue, and marketability.
Line editing: I also go through the manuscript with a fine-toothed comb checking for grammar, syntax, spelling, and usage.
Rewrite: After taking my notes into consideration and re-writing, you may re-submit for 1-2 pages of notes.
Or you’re free to pick and choose among the above services, as the need arises.
HEATHER KING SPEAKS ABOUT WHAT DRAWS HER TO WRITING
READ HEATHER’S POST: WHY WRITE A MEMOIR?
For me writing is a vocation, as well as a craft. I believe that everyone has a story to tell or an idea worth expressing—and with the right support, anyone can become a stronger writer.
Heather King
WRITING COACH
I’m also available as a writing coach for accountability, conversation, revision suggestions, critique, and/or whatever else you might need.
I specialize in helping individuals unlock their full potential as writers—whether you’re just starting out or a published author. My mission is to provide personalized, practical support that empowers you to write with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
I work with clients across a wide range of creative projects, including novels, screenplays, poetry and memoir. My role is not to rewrite your work, but to guide you through the writing process. I offer detailed feedback, expert insights, and strategic advice tailored to your specific needs.
Are you facing writer’s block, struggling with structure? Do you simply want to strengthen your voice on the page, I’m here to help. I’ll guide you to build skills that will enable you to approach any writing task with greater confidence. Together, we’ll break down your project into manageable steps. We will set clear goals, and establish a writing routine that works for you.
My coaching sessions are collaborative, supportive, and customized to each individual. I help creative writers organize complex ideas and develop strong themes. I offer memoirists in particular guidance on everything from narrative structure to character development. No matter the project, I’m committed to helping you communicate your message powerfully and authentically.
With a 30-year background in writing, publishing, editing, and coaching myself, I bring both experience and a deep passion for the craft. I believe that everyone has a story to tell or an idea worth expressing—and with the right support, anyone can become a stronger writer.
Sessions are conducted online and may include general discussion, annotated feedback on drafts, writing exercises, and/or curated suggestions designed to support your growth. Over time, you’ll not only improve your current project—you’ll gain the confidence and skills to tackle future writing challenges independently.
If you’re ready to take your writing to the next level, I’d love to work with you.
My hourly rate is $150. Let’s find a plan that works for you.
HOW DO WE START OUR MANUSCRIPT EDITING OR COACHING PARTNERSHIP?
I offer a free half-hour zoom conversation to discuss exactly what you need and want. We’ll then structure a spending plan appropriately.
The cost to develop, substantively edit, and fine-tune line edit a full manuscript generally ranges between $3000 and $5000.
My hourly rate for coaching or consultation is $150.
WHAT QUALIFIES ME AS A MANUSCRIPT EDITOR OR WRITING COACH?
I’m a self-supporting, working, author, columnist, and essayist of 25 years. I’ve written of addiction, money, food, gardening, the arts, and St. Thérèse of Lisieux. For ten years, I’ve written a weekly arts and culture column, and a monthly column on an unsung saint.
EXPERIENCE: I’ve published thirteen books, including top NY-agented, unagented, and self-published. I’m an award-winning weekly arts and culture columnist. I’ve maintained a widely-read blog for 14 years.
TOP EDITING/STORY SKILLS: I’ve written and recorded over 30 slice-of-life commentaries for NPR’s “All Things Considered.” I’ve published memoir, essay collections, creative non-fiction, blog posts, spiritual reflections, columns, and features. I’ve taught at the LA Writer’s Lab. I have hosted my own writing workshops. I have shepherded dozens of works of nonfiction, memoir, and poetry.
SUCCESS: I have been featured in the Best American Spiritual Writing series. I also received numerous “Notable Essay” citations in the Best American Essays series. My memoir Parched was named by The Fix as one of their top ten addiction memoirs. My book Holy Desperation (Loyola Press) won “Book of the Year” (2018) from the Association of Catholic Publishers. I’ve received numerous awards from the Catholic Press Association over the years. These include First Place in the category Best Weekly Arts and Culture column in 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2024.
