Build Your Book
About My Approach
Perhaps you have an idea that won't leave you alone. An idea for a novel, or expertise and experience for a non-fiction book.
Perhaps you've already started writing but don't know how to take it further.
Or you've reached the middle of your book and feel stuck.
You may even have a completed manuscript and want help preparing it for submission to an agent or self-publishing.
Wherever you are with your book, I can help you move it forward.
One-to-one coaching is tailored to you and the book you want to write. Together, we'll develop your ideas, find the structure and direction of your work, and work through the obstacles that are getting in the way.
I'll provide practical guidance, honest feedback, encouragement and accountability. We'll also look at the things that can make writing difficult — confidence, self-doubt, motivation, time and trusting your own voice.
Whether you're writing fiction, non-fiction or memoir, you don't have to work it all out alone.
Based in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, I work with writers locally and online.
Why work with me?
I've been writing professionally for almost twenty years, which has included features for The Times, Telegraph, Guardian and many other media outlets.
I know from my own experience that writing a book involves much more than simply putting words on a page.
I've been coaching and mentoring writers for fifteen years, helping to turn ideas into writing and find a way through the challenges that inevitably arise along the way. Before I became a writing coach I had a long and varied career in teaching English, including A-level.
I'm a published author so I understand that writing a book involves much more than simply putting words on a page. Ideas change, confidence wavers, motivation comes and goes, and sometimes it's difficult to see your own work clearly.
My role is to help you keep moving: to develop your ideas, give your writing shape and direction, provide honest and constructive feedback, and help you stay focused on the book you want to write.
If you're prepared to put in the work, I'll be there to help you make the most of it
You don’t have to have everything figured out before you begin. You just need somewhere to start.
Coaching Options
Initial Book Consultation
This is a one-off session if you're unsure about anything on your book. It's an opportunity to ask me questions and for me to consider what you want to write. I offer this as an alternative to the free initial call some coaches offer, because this session is more substantial.
- What you want to write.
- Where you are with your book - if you've started.
- What you're hoping to achieve.
- What might help you move forward.
You can bring an idea, outline, proposal or writing you've started.
I'll give you my thoughts and practical advice. You'll leave with a clearer sense of your next steps and how I could support you if you choose that.
There is no obligation to continue beyond this session.
If you move onto the 6-week package, this fee is deducted.
£95
6-Week Book Development
This is an individual 6-week writing package to take you from wherever you are now towards a completed book. You aren't expected to write a book in 6 weeks, but this package will turn your idea or early draft into a stronger, distinctive book working towards submission and publication.
- Clarify what you want to write and who is your audience.
- Evaluate which style and tone works for your book.
- Receive written feedback on your work.
- Have occasional calls where useful.
- Develop and position your book in the market.
- Be guided on how to submit for publication.
Writing a book is a big undertaking but you're not on your own.
Over six weeks, you'll have experienced guidance, constructive feedback and the space to develop your book with greater clarity and confidence.
£795
Manuscript Assessment
Manuscript Assessment
Manuscript Assessment
This is an independent assessment of your manuscript.
- A thorough read of your manuscript.
- Detailed written feedback on the book as a whole.
- Comments on structure, chapter organisation, tone, flow
- Identification of strengths, areas for development and any significant gaps or repetition.
- Consideration of how well the manuscript meets the needs of its intended reader.
- Practical recommendations for revision and next steps.
- A follow-up call to discuss the assessment and answer your questions.
This is a developmental assessment rather than a line edit, copy-edit or proofread. I look at the book as a whole and help you see where it is working well and where it could be stronger.
Fees from £350, depending on manuscript length.
And Some More Support
Manuscript Assessment
Manuscript Assessment
This 4-week package is for previous clients who would like some additional expert input as they continue to develop their book.
If you feel you're benefiting but still have some questions or need a little more feedback and support, this can be tailored to whatever you need.
- Written feedback on up to 1,500 words of new or revised material.
- One 30-minute call.
- Up to three email exchanges over four weeks.
- Support focused on one specific aspect of your book or submission.
If you've completed the six-week package and would like some additional input as you continue writing, revising or preparing your book for submission, this 4-week package will support you further.
£250