I offer editorial support and mentoring to children’s writers and novelists, ranging from advice on picture book texts through to a ‘deep dive’ into a 116,500 word historical novel. With doctoral level expertise and more than 15 years’ experience, I tailor my advice to the needs of each individual writer.

Narrative nuts and bolts

This package centres around a structural edit to help you make your story as strong as it needs to be. You’ll receive an in-depth review of the all-important ‘spine’ of your story plus observations on aspects such as logic, pace, characterisation, point of view, the rise and fall of tension and the setting. I’ll offer suggestions and possible solutions, along with a kind but honest appraisal of your manuscript’s promise.

Feedback from writers

‘I’ve been working hard on the plot and building the worlds of all my characters whilst also addressing the amazing points that you made for me. It’s starting to feel much more real and rich, it’s honestly amazing how much better it’s working now, I can’t thank you enough for opening my eyes to the process and principles of story making!’

‘Thank you so much for your input and for making the way forward an exciting and interesting one.’

‘Your report is amazing. The amount of information, guidance and encouragement you gave me was just brilliant. I look forward to submitting more stuff to you in the future once I’ve developed my writing game.

‘Wow, Kate! I don’t know how you got all of that out of the first thousand words. (Already identifying some of the things I’m most insecure about — the mark of a great editor, I’d say). I really appreciate it.’ 

My support is based on a rate of £75 per hour, please do get in touch if you’d like to know more. I’m based in the UK but work with writers in Australia, South Africa, the USA and France as well as in the UK. A zoom call to kick off our editorial partnership helps to make that important connection, wherever you’re based!

I also offer a query review where I advise on your proposed submission to agents or editors.

You can book me for specific packages through Cornerstones and Jericho Writers or The Darling Axe.