Work with Me

Helping writers shape their stories—from the first spark to the final page

After nearly twenty years in the writing and publishing world, I’ve learned that it takes a whole lot of hard work, a little luck, and plenty of support to bring a book to life.

As a teacher, I spent over 15 years teaching creative writing and queer literature at CUNY Hunter College. For the past decade, I’ve led one of the most popular courses at the Sackett Street Writers’ Workshop—a manuscript generator class designed to help writers turn their ideas into full-length books.

As an independent editor and coach, I work with fiction, nonfiction, and memoir writers at all stages—from those just beginning their journey to bestselling authors. Whether you're getting started or preparing for publication, I can help you refine your craft and build confidence in your creative process. Many of my clients have gone on to publish with major houses, including Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Macmillan, Hachette, and W.W. Norton.

Below, you'll find details on my manuscript consultations, coaching services, and writing clarity session.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

REVIEW
my offerings

Below, you'll find details on my manuscript consultations and coaching services. However, if you do not see something that fits your needs, please inquire about other options via a complimentary discovery call.

One-on-One Coaching

The idea that writers must “go it alone” is a romantic myth. Yes, writing requires time and solitude, but having a trusted reader can make all the difference in keeping you moving forward and guiding the process.

As a writing coach, I help writers refine their craft, build a sustainable writing practice, and stay motivated. Many writers come to me feeling stuck or discouraged by rejection, but they’re still determined to share their stories with the world.

Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked with writers who were told by past teachers that they weren’t “good enough”—writers who nearly gave up—only to go on and publish with major houses or study at top MFA programs. A little support can change everything.

When we work together, my goal is to help you:

Establish a productive writing routine

“I don’t know which makes me more miserable: writing or being unable to write.”

— E.B. WHITE

Build confidence in
your work

Hone
your skills 

Develop your voice

Launch or finish a project

To support that, I provide actionable editorial notes and one-on-one meetings to discuss every aspect of your project. After working with me, I want you to feel inspired, accomplished, and confident in your ability to tell the story only you can tell.

If you’re ready to kick-start a project, get guidance along the way, or push through to the finish line, set up a free 30-minute call to learn more about my pricing and availability.

See your words in print

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“Heather is smart, insightful, tenacious, encouraging, generous, cheerful and brilliant.

She pushed me with one goal in mind – to do my best work and to be real and true to the characters. She helped the story shine. I wish she could be perched on my shoulder every day while I’m writing.”

Susan Batten

AUTHOR OF Showing Roots,
FILM PRODUCED BY MICHAEL MAILER AND STARRING MAGGIE GRACE, UZO ARUBA, ADAM BRODY AND CICELY TYSON.

That’s where a developmental editor comes in.

A developmental editor provides professional, in-depth feedback to help take your book to the next level by focusing on key areas for revision such as:

Manuscript Critiques & Developmental Editing

So… you’ve written a book!
Your blood, sweat, and (let’s be honest) probably a few tears are poured onto every page. Whether it’s your first draft or your tenth, whether it took a year or a decade—you’ve hit an incredible milestone.

Congratulations!

Now what?


You’ve probably heard that the best thing to do is to set your manuscript aside for a while, so you can come back to it with fresh eyes. But once you’ve done that, it’s time for feedback.

Friends and family might seem like a good place to start, but even with the best intentions, they may not be able to give you the honest, constructive feedback you really need.

“A writer is a person for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people.”

— THOMAS MANN

Character development

Narrative arc and plot

Voice

Point of view

Pacing

Dialogue

Language

If you're looking for feedback on your manuscript and want to explore working together, you can set up a free 30-minute call to discuss your project, see if we’re a good fit, and go over my pricing and availability.

The world of the story

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

“I can't say enough wonderful things about Heather as a teacher and editor.

She is the perfect blend of supportive and challenging — a cheerleader who asked the necessary questions to push my writing further. I owe Heather a huge debt of gratitude for helping me not only shape my book, but also for giving me belief in myself as a writer.” 

Molly Roden Winter

AUTHOR OF THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER, More, Doubleday

Writing Clarity Session

A 90-Minute Project Consultation 

If you’re feeling stuck, not sure where to start, or have a specific challenge with a project, this Clarity Session is designed to help you break through. We’ll do a deep dive into your project focusing on any stage of the process, including

  • Getting Started

    Developing an idea and launching a project.

  • Writing Process & Motivation

    Staying focused, maintaining momentum, and overcoming creative blocks.

  • Craft & Structure

    Deepening character, clarifying motivation, strengthening structure, or refining plot.

  • Overcoming Roadblocks

    We can explore ways to move forward or brainstorm new directions.

  • Finishing Strong 

    Strategies for completing your project.

Please note that this service does not include reading pages in advance, but you’ll fill out a questionnaire beforehand to provide background on your project and challenges.

Cost: $375

Ready to move forward with clarity and confidence?

Click below to book your session, or if you have any questions before booking, feel free to email me directly.

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