The First Cut

Developmental Editing

The first cut is the deepest—and the most transformative. Developmental editing focuses on the big-picture elements of your manuscript: story structure, pacing, character development, plot consistency, and thematic depth.

For dark fiction and thriller authors, I provide:

• In-depth analysis of narrative structure and tension building

• Character arc evaluation and psychological depth assessment

• Plot hole identification and resolution strategies

• Pacing optimization for maximum suspense

• Theme consistency and symbolic resonance

• Worldbuilding coherence for horror and supernatural elements

• Market positioning and genre expectations

You'll receive a comprehensive editorial letter with actionable feedback, plus margin notes throughout your manuscript highlighting specific areas for development.

Perfect for: First drafts, manuscripts in need of restructuring, or authors seeking guidance before line editing.

Investment: Starting at $0.02 per word

Turnaround: 4-6 weeks depending on manuscript length

Ready to transform your manuscript? Let's discuss your project.