Author mentoring and editing services

 
 
 

Why try mentoring?

You may not be anything like me… but I’ve found over the years of writing, both pre-publication and post-publication, that it can feel quite lonely. Not in a companionship-sense - there are lots of people writing who you can connect with. No, in the ‘I want to talk about the intricate details of my plot to someone who understands what I’m talking about, knows about the industry and who can give insightful help about where I could improve’ type way.

That’s where mentoring comes in.

I’m here as a sounding board, someone who can help you figure out your plot, develop your characters, suggest ways round your writer’s block and to cheer you on. If it helps, I can set you targets. I can read your opening chapters ahead of our chat. I can read your covering letter. Whatever you need to get the most from our time together.

Who is this for?

This is for anyone who is writing for children and young people, at any stage of their writing journey. Maybe you’re thinking about writing for children? This is for you. Perhaps you’re half-way through your third manuscript and got bogged down in the soggy middle? This is for you. Freaked out by the ‘tricky second book’ feeling? This is for you.

How does it work?

I’m keeping it simple. We arrange a time to suit online. I have daytime, evening and weekend availability. There’s no tie-in. It’s a fixed price of £40 per hour, paid in advance.

Reading a cover letter, with written feedback - £40

Reading a chapter of up to 2000 words, with written feedback - £60

An hour’s mentoring - £40

Perfect for accountability, brainstorming, planning, editing and encouraging.

About me

  • Traditionally published author of three teen books

  • Author of multiple IP and reading scheme books

  • MA in Writing for Children and Young People (Bath Spa Uni, with distinction)

  • Leader of numerous writing workshops where I ask the right questions to get the best out of the people attending

  • Industry experience of the process

  • Guest lecturer at Nottingham Trent University for MA in Creative Writing

  • Secondary school librarian

How do you know if I’m right for you?

It’s important to find someone you can work with. I’ve had some amazing editors and critique partners who’ve ‘got’ my vision immediately and they are so brilliant to work with. Even extensive edits felt better because I trusted their judgement.

Because of this I’m offering 20 minutes free, so that we can chat about your project, explore what help you’re looking for and see if I would fit your vision.

Ping me a message, and we can explore whether I can help you on your writing journey.