Author coaching
Personalised guidance for every stage of your writing and publishing journey
Writing a book is challenging. Publishing it can feel even more overwhelming.
Whether you're struggling to finish a manuscript, preparing to query agents, considering self-publishing, or navigating the next stage of your writing career, I offer one-on-one coaching tailored to your goals.
As Head of Editorial at NAC Literary Agency, a traditionally published author, and an editor who has worked with more than 100 manuscripts, I've seen firsthand what helps writers move from aspiration to achievement.
How coaching can help
Every author's journey is different.
Some clients come to me with a completed manuscript and want help securing literary representation. Others are still developing an idea and need accountability, structure, and guidance.
Coaching sessions can focus on:
• Manuscript development
• Plot, structure, and story planning
• Finishing a first draft
• Accountability and goal setting
• Query letters and synopsis development
• Preparing submission packages
• Literary agent research and querying strategies
• Understanding traditional publishing
• Understanding self-publishing pathways
• Book positioning and marketability
• Author branding and long-term career planning
Getting an agent
Securing literary representation is more competitive than ever.
Many strong manuscripts are rejected not because they're poorly written, but because the query package isn't working, the manuscript isn't quite ready, or the author doesn't understand how the industry operates.
Having successfully secured representation with a leading US literary agency and prepared manuscripts for submission through NAC Literary Agency, I can help you:
• Evaluate whether your manuscript is query-ready
• Strengthen your opening pages
• Refine your query letter
• Develop a compelling synopsis
• Research appropriate agents
• Understand the submission process
• Navigate requests, revisions, and responses
Traditional publishing or self-publishing?
There is no single right publishing path.
Some books are better suited to traditional publication. Others thrive through independent publishing.
Together, we can explore:
• Traditional publishing opportunities
• Independent (indie) publishing options
• Hybrid approaches
• The advantages and challenges of each path
• Building realistic publishing goals
What you'll receive
Coaching is tailored to your individual needs and may include:
• One-on-one Zoom consultations
• Manuscript feedback
• Query and synopsis reviews
• Publishing strategy discussions
• Accountability check-ins
• Goal-setting and action plans
• Email follow-up notes and resources
Who I work with
• Aspiring authors
• Debut novelists
• Memoirists and nonfiction writers
• Authors preparing to query agents
• Self-publishing authors
• Traditionally published authors seeking career guidance
• Writers looking for accountability and support
Whether you're writing your first book or building a long-term writing career, coaching provides practical guidance, honest feedback, and a clear path forward.
What clients say
Jessie Cal, USA Today Bestselling Author
Memories Lost (Romantic Suspense)
"I am so grateful for Bella's expert eyes on my manuscript. She not only pointed out basic errors but also made me think about why I had made the choices I had made. Her editorial help has made me a better writer."
Katia Rose
Latte Girl and Your Rhythm (Romance)
"Bella's critiques have been professional, trustworthy, and immensely helpful to me as an author. She delivers concise and actionable feedback that goes beyond simply 'liking' or 'not liking' elements of a story; her suggestions are all thoroughly explained and easy to incorporate into the editing process. I'd highly recommend her to any author looking for honest and encouraging insight on their work."
Fees
Coaching sessions are tailored to your goals and project needs.
Please get in touch for current coaching rates and package options.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you're finishing a manuscript, preparing to query agents, exploring publishing options, or building a sustainable writing career, I'd love to help.
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Questions?