Full Manuscript Critique

Developmental Edit

Fiction

Elevate Your Story
I specialize in addressing the big picture elements of your manuscript, focusing on structure, plot, character development, and form. You'll receive light in-text line edits along with tips on grammar, style, and refining your narrative voice. My feedback also includes a multi-page editorial letter, detailing your project’s strengths, areas for improvement, and actionable solutions.

I ensure your story aligns with genre expectations and maintains the right pacing, hitting all the essential narrative beats. Is your inciting incident compelling? Does the middle avoid dragging? Does the climax provide a satisfying payoff? I’ll identify plot holes, inconsistencies, and missed opportunities for conflict.

Character development is also a priority—are your protagonists fully three-dimensional, with clear motivations and personal growth? I assess whether there’s enough tension and obstacles to challenge their goals and deepen their internal arc. Additionally, I provide targeted craft resources to help you strengthen specific areas and elevate your writing to the next level.

Testimonital:

Worldwide bestseller, Glenn Kleier. Prophet of Queens (thriller)

“Over the years I've had the privilege and pleasure of working with some outstanding editors, and I must say, Bella’s eyes are among the best.

Nonfiction

Comprehensive Support for Your Book Project
I can help you generate project ideas, develop the overall structure of your memoir or creative nonfiction work, and provide ongoing support to get your words on the page.

If you have a working draft—or even just sections started—I offer full developmental edits. I also assist with nonfiction proposals, crafting the key elements needed to pitch your book idea to prospective publishers.

Shaping Your Life Story into a Compelling Memoir
I specialize in helping authors transform personal stories into engaging, coherent narratives. This includes organizing the memoir’s structure to ensure smooth flow and pacing that keeps readers hooked. Together, we’ll work on outlines and dive deeply into key events and emotions to create a meaningful narrative.

I ensure consistency in voice and details, while helping develop nuanced, relatable characters—especially the author as the protagonist.

Beyond structure, I guide authors in clarifying themes and messages to resonate with their intended audience. I also help identify target readers and provide emotional support throughout the process. Consider me your literary cheerleader :)

Testimonial:

Tina Bruce. Big Little Breath (memoir)

Bella has a stunning gift for storytelling. Her expert mind could see the potential in my book, its title and my writing abilities before I could. As an editor, every suggestion she made improved the memoir and inspired me to dig deeper. Bella cuts right to the core and knows the value of creating a visceral experience for the reader. A beautiful person and utter professional at her craft. I'd recommend Bella to any author!

Pitch Package

I help authors with their tag lines, queries, X (formerly Twitter) contest pitches, and even the dreaded (eeeek!) synopsis. Plus perfecting the first three chapters. Think of it as a literary safari…and we’re hunting the big five.

How to get an agent/publisher coaching 

Here I provide one-on-one coaching tailor-made for your publishing needs. I’ve been through this journey myself and helped many other authors come up with the best strategy to secure an agent or publishing deal.

Fees

Please get in touch and we can discuss different options, dates, and fees.

I’m looking forward to speaking with you and digging into your story.

My red pen is ready!