Services for Writers

I help writers tell stories that they can believe in.

Here’s the thing. Writing is not storytelling. Writing is a tool for storytelling. Despite genre, form, or whatever, working stories have way more in common than you might think. Movies, novels, (again) whatever, they have been doing the same sh*t for the last 2000 years. So here’s what I can do, teach you that shared DNA—let’s call them story principles. So you can insert your style and voice. And taste. And sensibilities. And all other stuff that makes you, you. My only goal is to help you tell (or share) the story that you are trying to tell. I want you to be clear and confident about your work. One, because I know you can be. Two, because you deserve to be—your novel is unique because you wrote it. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. Right now, I offer three services.

• Synopsis, Pitch, or Query Streamlining - I can read your synopsis, pitch, or query letter and help you reduce it to the core story elements. The stuff people want to know about your story. This is a much different skill set than writing or editing. It is super hard for most writers, and I understand why—they are so close to the story, it’s hard to see it for what it is—but 20 years in sales taught me the power of “reducing to amplify.” Combine that with my experience with, passion for, and knowledge of Story, and I might be better at this service than I am at writing. (Now that was painful to admit.)

• Manuscript Reviews - I can read your manuscript and provide a detailed report that includes strengths, weaknesses, and suggestions. In short, I look at two things: story, to ensure it works, and writing, to ensure we get as much of you as possible. (Of course, I will explain more when we chat.) This service also includes (2) 50-minute coaching sessions—one before to understand your project and goals, and one after to discuss the report and next steps. (Please note: I will only review manuscripts up to 85k words.)

• Speaking - I can (and want to) speak to your writing group, workshop, event, or conference about the storytelling principles featured in my upcoming book Aristotle for Novelists: 13 Essential Principles. Group size, location, et cetera will matter, but more info is available upon request. I don’t bite, reach out.

Interested in working with me? Just email me to introduce yourself and what service interests you. As long as you are not an axe murderer, I will most likely reply with my booking calendar to set up a 20-minute consult call.

*Last updated: 3/25/24