Just like they say on the phone: Some of our options have changed. If you’ve been here before, you might need to look again.
Now that I’m a few years into working with writers as a book coach, I’ve learned a few things about deadlines and pricing I’ve found a monthly plan works best. That means two submissions of up to 25 pages each. The writer pays at the beginning of the month. A 3-month commitment gives us time to make real progress. Six months is even better. If we're doing 50 pages a month, then, depending on how long your book is, we can probably get through a full draft in 6 months. But sometimes it takes longer.
When we finish a full draft (figure 6-12 months) and agree to start the next round, I discount the fee.
Since some writers prefer to submit more than 50 pages in a month – I’ve begun to offer packages. That way, I won’t slow anyone down. I've learned (the hard way) that these packages aren’t great if someone wants to work more slowly. There’s a chance of losing momentum, losing count, or losing the benefits of being accountable. I’m happy to try a package if that’s your preference, but let’s do it with the understanding that we may decide to switch to monthly.
Here's how it works:
First - we'll talk. You'll tell me where you are in writing your book. What you're hoping/planning to do. What you'd like a little help with. And maybe even what's the best option for you. So please take a look below, and then let's talk.
Packages and Pricing*
Individually Tailored Package This is for anyone who wants special attention at any point in their writing process, whether they're writing fiction or nonfiction. I'd like to say what it includes and what it costs, but it's meant to be specifically tailored to what will be most useful to each individual writer. It could mean taking you through a first draft or working with you through a revision. Talking about the best path to publication. Or how to navigate self-publishing. It could mean more phone calls or emails each month. Together we'll determine a schedule and a fair price.
The Small Stuff Maybe all you want is someone to take a look at your first 10 pages. Or see if a letter makes sense. A short story. A synopsis. It doesn't always have to be a book. Or a quick proof of a 25-page report. Fiction or nonfiction. Depending on the length $150.00 to $350.00 - less than 25 pages
Beginning a Novel or Memoir You’ve always wanted to write a book, but you have no idea how to do it or where to start. In addition to reading and commenting on your pages, this includes lessons in craft and conversations about your work either by phone or email. Package #1 $500.00 a month for up to 50 pages
Package #2 5 submissions of 20-25 pages over a 3-month period - $2500.00
Package #3 10 Submissions of 20-25 pages over a period of 6 months - $5000.00 Payments can be made in two installments.
All Packages include - an initial call and 1 additional call each month, inline comments, brief editorial email, and other emails or calls as needed. They each have a limited time period - please check. This is done to create some accountability. If life gets in the way and you need more time, we can make adjustments. All submissions should be 12-point Times New Roman, double-spaced.
Writing a Nonfiction Book In addition to my reading and commenting on your pages, together we'll work on structure and developing a theme. $500.00 a month, depending on the topic and the length of the book If you prefer to buy a package of 5 or 10 submissions, please see pricing above
Revising - fiction or nonfiction I'd love to give you a quote, but so much depends on the type of book, the length, and how you'd like to work on the revisions. Starting at $500.00 and up for returning writers Starting at $750.00 for new writers
Full Manuscript Evaluation This one, especially, will be tailored to your specific needs In general, it will include in-line comments, an editorial letter, and recommendations for the next steps.
$1250.00 - $2500.00 depending on word count $1250.00 for up to 40,000 words $1500.00 for up to 90,000. words $2000.00 for up to 125,000 words $2500.00 for up to 150,000 if your manuscript is longer than 150,000 words, let's talk
Final Read-Through If you’ve completed a draft during our work together, I will do a final read-through checking for pacing, tone, and consistency. As well as simple mistakes. Starting at $500.00 and up - depending on length
Proofreading I've been proofreading professionally for years - my clients include corporations and universities, as well as authors of both fiction and nonfiction. I do not trust myself to do copyediting since I'm comma challenged but I'm pretty confident when it comes to straight proofreading. I offer this as a stand-alone service even if we haven't worked together on your manuscript. Starting at $3.00 a page
Navigating Self-Publishing I’ve had a small press – Bacon Press Books– for 13 years. I know what it takes to produce and publish a book. I’m happy to walk you through the process, including: purchasing your own ISBNs; filing for copyright; filing for a Library of Congress number; uploading your manuscript. Along with advice on cover design, interior design, social media, and where you need to create author pages. ` Starting at $300.00
Refunds Sometimes it happens.You're busy or sick or traveling. This isn't what you expected. Or maybe we just don't work as well together as we hoped. I've spent my whole career always trying to be fair and ethical. I intend to continue. If it's possible to refund at least part of your payment - I'll do that. Please keep in mind sometimes it's not possible. I've set time limits on the packages for your benefit as well as mine. If you think you need a refund, let's talk. I'm sure we can work something out.
*If you don’t see what you’re looking for, let me know and together we can tailor a program for your specific needs.