Book Editing and Ghostwriting Services

In addition to my own writing, I offer editing services for writers and aspiring authors in customizable packages. I love this work and it has been an honor to work with so many wonderful people with whom I have made lasting connections. More often than not, folks with whom I work  spend a few days with me in my home for great dialogue and coaching. We chat and learn, share meals, and in the end, a better manuscript comes out of the project . . . and I’m not to shabby with a spatula and skillet.

You Say You Don’t Need an Editor . . . 

Send me up to five pages and I will  quickly return a complimentary edit to your mailbox. It’s always helpful to have a concrete sample of how excellent editing can move a good piece of writing into something that sparkles.

“The angel of the project is Marie White Small and her husband, Frank. You allowed me in your home to eat good ole Vermont food, into your minds to help me shape my memoir, and into your hearts to soak up love and encouragement. No sure how I could have pressed send without you.” ~ Julius Dion Bailey, author of Be-Longing: Triumph in the Mirror, A Memoir

Story Analysis

An overview story analysis is a deep read of a manuscript that includes comments and suggestions on structure, story arc, character analysis, crafting a compelling opening, and a resonant ending. I pay particular attention to the story arc and pacing, l also offer commentary on any other problems in the manuscript that I see. Some copyedit suggestions will also be offered, though not a deep or compete copyedit. Copyedits are according to the Chicago Manual of Style. Throughout this process, a back and forth by email and calls is most helpful, asking question, requesting calcifications, etc., and going over any manuscript issues and suggestions that may net be readily understood.

“Thank you, Marie, for all of your help and encouragement. It has been a long road, and after my fall last year I thought about giving up. It was your encouragement that kept me going!.” ~ James Hornor, author of Victoria Falls

Line Edit

A complete line edits of a manuscript, which includes corrections to grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Also included are suggestions regarding chapter organization, sentence structure, eliminating repeated words, flagging clichés, and formatting issues. This work is done in the review section of Microsoft Word, and according to the Chicago Manual of Style.  Once the collaborative work of this is accomplished to the end page, another full read and additional corrections and comments as necessary are offered. It is a two-pronged approach.

Submission Package

For writers who are seeking representation or plan to submit to independent publishers who accept non-agented submissions, this package includes a pitch letter, a bio, and a synopsis of your manuscript, and a marketing plan.

Having worked with Marie on one of my novels, I can say with full certainty that not only did I receive a thoroughly edited manuscript, but I was re-educated in many aspects of what it is to be a writer. Basic mistakes that I have long considered the norm, and by this stage in my writing career, took for granted were highlighted to me. Not only this, but I was then educated on how I should approach these aspects in the future, with examples to use. I have created a compendium of her comments, and intend to keep this with me as reference for the future. Marie made me rant at her like a sullen child, but once I was done ranting, I realized I was a better writer because of it. She has made me a better writer.

Matthew W. Harrill, author of Thornfalcon

Private Writing Workshops

Private and small group workshops are available for fiction and memoirists. Workshops can be framed around subjects in which the participants are interested: first chapters, endings, story arc, characters, symbolism, titles, names, dialogue, and so on. Connecting emotionally with readers, telling your emotional truth, and leaving room for readers so that they become silent characters in your story are aspects that are always covered.

Ghostwriting

Contact me with your particulars. I have ghosted several books and written content for blogs and other pieces for specific uses.