Book proposal
A book proposal is a document that you can use to try to sell a book to a commercial publisher or to interest an agent in representing the book. Editors and agents expect certain kinds of material to be included in the book proposal—and that’s what I deliver. Based on information you provide, I prepare a book proposal specialized for you and your writing project. Cost: $250
Query letter
Some publishers and agents will not look at a proposal as a first step. Instead, they initially want to see a brief letter summarizing what the project is about. This is called a query letter. I can prepare a query letter for your project and give you guidelines on how to adapt the letter for different recipients. Cost: $50.
Manuscript evaluation—full
Whether or not you have decided to get a book proposal, you might want an evaluation of your manuscript to determine what work it needs. In the Full Evaluation I read the manuscript and give a detailed response, suggesting ways the manuscript can be improved to meet your goal. Cost: $350.
Manuscript evaluation—top line
How viable is your book? You might want to get a professional opinion about this before you pursue a book proposal. The top Line Evaluation, I read your manuscript and give you a one-page written evaluation, addressing basic issues such as whether I believe it is likely to be purchased by a publisher and what would strengthen its marketing potential. Cost: $50.
Editing
Do you want to have some sample chapters, or perhaps your whole manuscript, edited to send along with your proposal to agents or acquisition editors? I can perform substantive editing—the content-shaping type of editing. Or I can provide copyediting—cleaning up the English for you. Cost: varies—contact me to discuss.
Ghostwriting
Do you need someone to write your material for you, based on ideas and information you provide? I can take care of that for you. I know that each project is different, and I will strive to convey your message faithfully in a style that matches who you are. Cost: varies—contact me to discuss.
