Editing

For those who need clarity on a manuscript, either fiction or non-fiction.

Includes:

• A 5-10 page editorial letter laying out your manuscript's strengths and weaknesses.
  
  For non-fiction, this covers the book's argument, logic, structure, tone, voice, etc.
  
  For fiction, this covers major story elements such as structure, characterization, pacing, POV, etc.

• One virtual meeting to discuss my feedback

A big-picture edit.
I collaborate with the author to restructure or revise content, addressing issues found in the read-through. 

For non-fiction, this covers the book's argument, logic, structure, tone, etc.

For fiction, this covers major story elements such as structure, characterization, pacing, POV, etc. 

Includes:

• A 2-3 page editorial letter explaining things to be addressed in the developmental edit
• 1-2 virtual meetings
• Chapter-by-chapter comments and suggestions
• Limited line edits (OR, if fewer big picture issues, more line edits)

Sometimes called book coaching. I offer in-depth guidance on how an author can complete, significantly restructure, or rewrite a manuscript.

Includes:

• A 2-3 page editorial letter explaining what needs to be addressed
  

  For non-fiction, this covers the book's argument, logic, structure, tone, etc.
  

  For fiction, this covers major story elements such as structure, characterization, pacing, POV, etc.

• 2-3 virtual meetings
• Chapter-by-chapter comments and suggestions on how to improve the manuscript, including some line edits
• A back-and-forth process in which I review and edit, you review and revise, we discuss sometimes, and so on. 

"I was honored to work with Jenea Havener as a development editor on my first book. She delved deeply into the content and soul of the work and made it come alive. Her experience, passion for writing and careful attention to the flow and message of each section made my work a better book. I am grateful for her partnership and would love to work with her again on my next project. She is a gift to any writer seeking to hone their writing so that it dances and sings.”

- Peter H. Bailey

"Jenea's developmental editing has been invaluable as I work to complete my first manuscript. Her insight is sound and practical, and her clearly communicated recommendations improved both the logic and the magic of my narrative. Her suggestions elevated my work so much that I now feel confident querying agents. I will reach out to her again when I complete drafting my second novel."

- L.H.

"Jenea Havener was the developmental editor for my debut novel, What Went Well. I came to her with a finished manuscript and decades of experience as a psychologist, including twenty-five years leading therapy groups. I knew the psychology of these women and the world I wanted tocreate. What I needed was an editor who brought her expertise to my written words.

What I appreciated most was how collaboratively we worked together. She was an excellent listener and asked questions that helped me think more deeply about what I was trying to say. When I knew what I wanted to say but couldn’t quite find the words, she often helped me get there without making the language sound like hers instead of mine. She was very thoughtful about both the story and my intentions for it.

As we progressed, her feedback helped me understand what was working and where the story needed more from me. She was incredibly collaborative. I never felt as though I had handed over my manuscript for someone else to work on. We were working on the book together. This experience is something I will always appreciate. I would work with Jenea again, and I recommend her without hesitation.

-Sherry H.