freelance
BOOK COACH
and
developmental
editor
Partnering with writers to get manuscripts polished and books published
Want to write a book? I can help you navigate each step, from fine-tuning the concept to developing an outline and writing each chapter.
Want to get your book published? I can give feedback on your written manuscript, edit it from start to finish, and help you develop an ironclad book proposal.
The Complete Expert-to-Author Guide: Plan, Write, and Publish Your Nonfiction Book
Move strategically from book idea to finished manuscript with less stress and more confidence with this book in hand. Learn how to build an author platform, pick the best publishing path, and develop a rock-solid book proposal—all while fine-tuning your messaging and expanding your outreach.
RECENT BOOK PROJECTS
EDITORIAL SERVICES
Writing a book and getting it published can be as daunting as it is exciting. Take the worry out of what to do next with an editorial service tailored to fit your needs.
Get guidance through every stage of the publishing process, from book idea to distribution. Book coaching is ideal before you begin writing, since a strong understanding of the industry—and your book’s place in it—is a key to success.
Improve your manuscript’s organization, flow, and tone with strategic edits that serve the big-picture plan. Developmental edits ensure that the content is clear and meeting the readers’ needs.
Not sure if your manuscript is “good enough”? Get feedback on your manuscript, including advice on what to revise and guidance on strategic next steps.
If you’re seeking a traditional publisher, a well-executed book proposal is a must. Learn what to include and how to present it, for the best chances at successfully pitching your book.
WORKING WITH WRITERS
You may not consider yourself a writer—yet. And that’s okay. I’ve worked with therapists, educators, business owners, nutritionists, doctors, and other subject-matter experts—many of whom had never written a book before. They have done it, and you can too. My specialty as a book coach and developmental book editor is:
- • Helping experts adapt their knowledge for a broader audience
- • Navigating first-time authors through the writing and publishing processes
- • Establishing a strong foundation for manuscript writing, beginning with a compelling book concept and robust outline
- • Empowering clients with essential tools to stay accountable, supported, motivated, organized, and savvy
TESTIMONIALS
“It is rare to be able to work with such a brilliant editor. Marisa edited my first book and had an amazing knack to make suggestions and additions in my own style and voice. She also had incredibly smart edits. I ended up writing many articles to promote my book. Several of them went viral. I know Marisa’s suggestions played a huge role, editing and sharpening what I was trying to say.”
—Grace Walcott, aka Gracie X
Author, Wide Open
“Marisa is a masterful editor and a pleasure to work with. She’s able to identify and elevate your strengths as a writer and also gently articulate the areas that need more work.”
—Annalisa Smithson
Author, Counselor’s Best Friend
“Marisa helped with the developmental editing of my first eBook and I cannot praise her enough. Her patience, thoughtfulness, and understanding of the topic, and also what I was trying to convey, really helped articulate my thoughts much better than I would have done on my own.”
—Yashas Mudumbai
Author, Dear Depression