Editing Services
Editing
You've polished your novel, memoir or non-fiction proposal to the best of your ability. Now what to do? Some writers decide to have someone review and edit their work. As a traditionally published author and someone who’s edited client manuscripts as a literary agent, this is where I can help. I’ll read your manuscript or proposal and make recommendations in a detailed editorial letter to improve the structure and/or story arc, suggest scenes to add or cut that will make the writing more compelling, advise how characters can be developed, dialogue sharpened to move the story forward and more. This is called structural and line editing.
Submission letters, synopsis and outlines
If you’re seeking literary representation, you’ll have to write a query letter as well as prepare a synopsis and/or chapter outlines. Some writers find these intimidating. It’s really not. I’ve spent hours writing and rewriting my own pitch letters, synopses and outlines and can help you craft yours.
Contact me and tell me about your project.
Client Praise
Damian has a great sense of plot and character direction when it comes to writing. His oversight has helped me find my way out of the weeds many times over.
—Joan Schweighardt, author of River Aria, the third book in the “rivers” series, and other novels.
Every project needs someone who not only believes in the story but also has nerve and know-how to challenge the writer's vision. As my first literary agent, Damian was both. He shepharded my non-fiction proposal and then manuscript into my very first traditionally published book. His edits made my first book, The Long Blink, better, which resulted in an auction for the manuscript. Damian knows the industry, but even more valuable, he knows a good story and how to make it better.
—Brian Kuebler, author of The Long Blink
Damian McNicholl saw the potential in my book and diagnosed how it could be realized. He knew exactly how to balance literary and commercial considerations. His editorial vision and structural understanding helped transform the narrative; his line edits shined light on every nuance of meaning.
—Larry Strauss, author of Students First and Other Lies, Now’s the Time (audiobook narrated by Kim Fields) and the upcoming Light Man and the Roach Lady
Damian was both skillful and professional. I was startled by how perceptive his critiques were, and how much better the novel read after I followed them. I can highly recommend him.
—Phyllis M Skoy, author of What Survives and Myopia, a memoir.