How can I help you?
Editing Services
I work with UK and US writers to prepare their book for self-publication, or to polish their manuscript before sending to publishing houses. I offer manuscript assessments, developmental editing, and copyediting for authors. It makes no difference whether you are publishing for the first time or are a seasoned author: you want your work to be accurate, readable, and professionally presented. We agree what Style you wish to adopt for your work (I work principally with New Hart’s Rules, Oxford Style and with Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS), and will work to publishers’ in-house style guides if preferred. I provide updates during the editing process, and you’ll receive a clean, corrected version and a marked-up file showing all edits. I help you deliver a polished, publication-ready manuscript that reflects your ideas faithfully and reads smoothly for your intended readers.
Coaching Services
I provide one-to-one book coaching for nonfiction writers at all stages—from early idea development through to a completed draft. Coaching is offered through regular, scheduled sessions and tailored feedback on your work in progress. I help you think strategically about your reader, structure your material, set realistic goals, and build momentum over time. My approach is practical and supportive, designed to help you make steady progress and write with confidence. Coaching is suitable whether you’re planning to self-publish or approach a traditional publisher, and whether you’re writing as a professional or an entrepreneur. The key to working with me is to be a subject matter expert in your chosen field.
Book Proposals
I work with nonfiction writers who want to submit their work to agents or publishers. Together, we develop a clear, structured proposal that presents your book idea, your credentials, your intended readership, and how your book fits into the existing world of published books. I help you write the key sections: overview, audience analysis, a marketing plan, your Bio, comparable titles, the chapter summaries, and sample material, and ensure they align with industry expectations. The goal is a professional submission that reflects your book’s potential and purpose.
Indexing
A good index respects your reader’s time. It helps them find what they need, return to key sections, and use your book as a working tool—not just a one-time read. Indexing is especially important in nonfiction books that are practical, professional, or academic. Readers may not read in a linear way. They’re often searching for specific topics, examples, or references. A well-made index allows them to do that quickly and with confidence.
Indexing is not just about listing terms. It involves careful judgement—what to include, how to phrase entries, and how to organise them in a way that reflects the structure and logic of the book. If your book would benefit from an index, I can take care of it for you. I provide this service alongside editing for nonfiction writers, particularly those publishing in fields like law, finance, education, and healthcare. Together, we’ll make sure your book is both readable and navigable.
Contract review
When you receive an expression of interest from a publisher, it’s exciting. If all goes well, they send you a contract to sign. That’s the point at which you need expert legal advice. You need to know what your obligations are to fulfil the contract and whether your rights to receive payment and retain ownership of your intellectual property are clear. I am a lawyer qualified to practice the law of England & Wales and can advise you on English contracts.
Manuscript Assessments
When you need a second pair of eyes on your draft, nonfiction manuscript, I can help. I provide honest feedback on the issues you ask me to comment on, and you get a report that is organised with the most important points showing first, and the less important last, so that you have a clear, prioritised course of action to take to move your book towards publication.