MEMOIR WRITING
Every life story has the potential to be an extraordinary memoir, whatever the writer's age. All of our lives are rich with thousands of meaningful stories, an intricate weaving that begins with our first breath. I know the power of the true story well told and its value for both writer and reader. That's why I'm committed to lifewriting, supplying structure and support as people reconnect with their innermost selves, uncover the gems of their experience, and bring to life the people and events that have influenced them. I also ghostwrite memoirs for professionals and others who want a writer's help telling their story, for family or for publication.
CONSULTING
Do you have an idea for a memoir and need to develop its focus, shape, and content? A nonfiction book in progress that's reading too dry? A potential best-seller with no publisher in sight? I review manuscripts and book proposals in all stages of development and provide thoughtful critique to improve the writing. Some clients hire me to consult on manuscripts or proposals rejected by agents and with my help rewrite or refine and get the sale. Others plan to self-publish and need a professional editor to ensure their success. I’m the fresh eye, the valuable guide, the educated opinion, here to help your writing life soar.
EDITING
You've probably heard that writing is 1 percent inspiration, 99 percent perspiration. I have to disagree. Writing isn't hard, it just takes determination, practice, and skill. It requires first drafts that come from an inspired, creative place followed by evaluation and editing to strengthen the work. This is where I come in, after the revision, to bring it to the next level. I read with a fine-toothed comb to draw out the strengths, refine the structure, make the voice vivid, the flow logical, the pace consistent, and the message clear while maintaining the writer's tone. With these basics done, it’s time for the red pencil, copy editing for grammar and punctuation. Every writer gets what they need to go forward.
