Fiction Developmental Editing

Editing the heart of your story into something unforgettable.

You’ve done the hard part: you’ve written your story.

You’ve rewritten scenes (or entire sections!) but still feel like something’s missing. . .

You know your story matters—but the structure, tension, or emotional arc isn’t quite landing . . .

Your characters are vivid in your mind but fall flat on the page—or have taken over the story entirely . . .

You've gotten feedback, but it’s either conflicting, surface-level, or overwhelming . . .

Now, you're wondering (or you already know) . . .

What's next?

You don’t have to keep revising alone.

You deserve knowledgably, compassionate, and professional guidance.

Imagine:

Finally understanding why things aren’t clicking—and exactly what to do about it.

Feeling seen and supported by someone who understands storytelling and the emotional weight of your words.

Having a path forward—not just for this manuscript, but as a stronger, more intentional writer for all your future ones.

That’s the power of developmental editing.

Developmental Editing Includes

Multiple full read-throughs and an editorial analysis of your manuscript—focusing on structure, plot, character development, pacing, worldbuilding, tone, and more.
A detailed 10+ page editorial letter—breaking down what’s working, what’s not, and actionable next steps.
Side-bar comments—guiding you scene by scene to help you refine your story at the macro and micro level.
Two 1:1 Story Mentorship sessions—one week and one month after receiving your feedback.
Four weeks of unlimited voice support between the Story Mentorship sessions

The Developmental Editing Journey

Phase One: Booking Call
After you’ve filled out the Discovery Call Questionnaire, we’ll meet for a free Discovery Call. During this time, we will discuss your goals for your manuscript, payment plans, whether we’re a good fit, and you’ll have space to ask me any questions.

Phase Two: Onboarding
Once you're ready, you’ll sign your contract, pay your down deposit, and receive the onboarding materials to get started.

Phase Three: Manuscript Hand-Off + Author Alignment & Vision Session
On our selected project start day, you’ll send over your manuscript with the on-boarding materials, and we’ll meet for a 45-minute call to align on your story’s heart, intentions, and areas of focus.

Phase Four: Developmental Edit
Over the course of 6–8 weeks, I’ll read your manuscript multiple times, add my side-bar comments and in-line edits, and complete my editorial letter.

Phase Five: Manuscript & Feedback Delivery
You’ll receive your full editorial letter and edited manuscript file. You’ll have a week to review before we reconnect again.

Phase Six: Story Mentorship Session #1
We’ll meet to walk through my feedback and create a clear revision plan.

Phase Seven: Story Mentorship Session #2
One month later, we’ll meet again to reflect on your progress, troubleshoot roadblocks, and keep your momentum strong.

Optional: Continued Mentorship
You can book additional story crafting mentorships, developmental edits, or manuscript evaluations at any time.

Your investment

Developmental editing services begin at $1750

Anyone who received a developmental edit, manuscript evaluation, or story-craft mentor can receive discounts. Inquire about these!

Payment plans available.

Start Phase One

Here's what other writers have to say from working with me . . .

Sarah Waterhouse

“With Vicki’s guidance, I was able to clearly see the strengths I had woven into my narrative, as well as the specific areas where growth was needed. She is a knowledgeable coach and editor, and I am so glad I trusted her with my art. "

FAQ

When should I book my developmental edit?

Many developmental editors book several months (sometimes even a year) in advance. I also recommend you self-revise your manuscript a few times before a developmental edit. If you're needing help now, with an incomplete manuscript, please look at the manuscript evaluation service I offer. If you’ve finished your first draft—or know you're close—it’s a great time to reach out. Even if you're not quite ready for the manuscript hand-off, securing a spot now gives you a clear deadline and time to prepare.

What genres do you work with?

You can see the genres I work with here.

Do you edit short stories?

I do! Please contact me to discuss this.

How do payment plans work?

I offer flexible payment plans for most services. You can choose to pay in full or split the total into monthly or milestone-based payments, depending on the service. A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your spot, and the remaining balance must be paid in full by Phase 5.

All payment terms will be clearly outlined in our service agreement. If you have specific budget considerations, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to explore options within those boundaries.

I'm not sure if I am ready for a developmental edit . . . What can I do?

If you’re still shaping your story or not quite at a final draft, a Manuscript Evaluation is a great first step. It gives you big-picture feedback without the deeper commitment of a full edit.

You can also explore my 1:1 Story Crafting Mentorship – Weaving the Writer’s Web for personalized guidance as you revise and develop your manuscript.

Got additional questions? Contact me here.

Who Is Your Story Craft Mentor?

My name is Victoria Krouse

If we haven’t met yet, hello! I’m a compassionate fiction developmental editor and storytelling mentor with a background in editing fantasy, romance, horror, and paranormal manuscripts. I’ve also helped authors outline their stories, navigate revisions, and prepare to pitch to agents.

My goal is to support you in finding clarity and confidence in your creative process. I believe that storytelling often benefits from embracing a slower, more intentional approach to crafting your narrative. I’m here to guide you in weaving your ideas into something truly magical and uniquely yours.