NOVEL CONSULTANCY

Editorial support for writers developing a novel.

There comes a point with almost every novel when it becomes difficult to see the work objectively.

You may know that something isn't quite working without knowing exactly what it is. You may have too much story, not enough story, a character who isn't behaving as you expected, or a manuscript that needs a substantial rethink.

A novel consultation gives you the opportunity to step outside the manuscript and look at it afresh.

What can we work on?

Plot

Is there a compelling story at the heart of the novel? Are the events developing naturally? Does each major development lead convincingly to the next?

We can identify where the plot is strongest and where it may need greater complication, clarity or momentum.

Structure

Does the novel have the right shape? Are there sections that could be moved, condensed or expanded?

Looking at the manuscript structurally can often reveal solutions to problems that seem much harder when viewed chapter by chapter.

Character

Are your characters driving the story? Do they have clear and believable motivations? Do their relationships develop?

We can look at individual character arcs as well as the way the characters interact with the wider story.

Voice & Point of View

Does the narrative voice feel distinctive and consistent? Is the chosen point of view giving the reader the right experience?

Sometimes a story is strong but the way it is being told is holding it back. We can explore whether the narrative approach is doing what you need it to do.

Pacing

Are there parts of the manuscript where the reader may lose interest? Are important moments being rushed?

We'll look at the balance between action, reflection, description, dialogue and development, and identify where the pace could be improved.

The Opening

The first pages need to make the reader want to continue.

I can give you a close editorial response to the opening of your novel, looking at whether it establishes the voice, characters and story effectively — and whether it creates sufficient curiosity to keep the reader reading.

The Ending

Does the ending feel earned? Are the major character and story threads resolved in a satisfying way?

A strong ending can transform the reader's experience of the entire novel, so it is worth looking at what the conclusion delivers — and whether it delivers what the story has promised.

Different stages, different needs:

Developing an idea
You have the beginnings of a novel and want to test the story before committing to a full manuscript.

Early draft
You want to make sure the foundations are working before going further.

Completed first draft
You've reached the end and need to understand what the novel requires before beginning the rewrite.

Major rewrite
You know substantial changes are needed and want an objective perspective before tackling them.

Nearly ready
The manuscript is close to finished and you want to identify any remaining weaknesses.

Preparing for submission
You want an experienced editorial view of the manuscript and its opening before approaching agents, and support with submission letters, synopsis and pitches.

How we can work together

Depending on the stage of your novel, consultancy can include:

Manuscript notes
Clear, constructive feedback on the elements of the novel that need attention, with practical suggestions for development.

One-to-one consultation
A focused conversation about your manuscript, giving you the space to discuss the issues you're wrestling with and work through possible solutions.

Ongoing development
Support across different stages of a rewrite or as the novel moves towards submission.

The purpose isn't to tell you how I would write the novel.

It's to help you make your novel the strongest version of itself.

Ready for another pair of eyes?

If you'd like to discuss your novel, get in touch and tell me a little about the manuscript and where you are in the process.

Let's work out what your novel needs next.