Stephanie Wilson
Performer · Speaker · Author
DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING SERVICES
I HELP TURN A GOOD STORY INTO GREAT STORYTELLING
This is my second book wtih Stephanie, and she is my #1 go-to for developmental editing. I've gotten to a point where I don't trust other editors with my work!
Her help with my book exhibited both a deep undertanding and a deep passion to help me out. If you're serious about improving your writing and you're willing to follow and rework her suggestions, your writing will jump to the next level.
I am a first-time writer, and Stephanie's guidance made my memoir more compelling. She explains things in a way that makes sense. After listening to her advice, my chapters flow much. more easily.
She is great at what she does at a very high level. She gave detailed feedback on why and how I should improve my work, and even went as far as becoming a mentor. Every penny was worth it!
Superior in her craft; simply outstanding. If you are looking for someone to help pivot your book forward -
Look No Further!
Stephanie has been an invaluable resource in shaping my writing. Her insights on story structure have provided me with clearer direction, making the entire process feel much more manageable.
Within moments of speaking, I knew she was right for my project.
She is now working on the second book in my trilogy.
She's the best editor I've worked with. She's one of those
once-in-a-lifetime
people you come across but may never find again. I'd definitely recommend her. The best help ever!
SERVICES OFFERED
Manuscript Assessment
aka Editorial Assessment
This service is designed for manuscripts that have been written but are not yet fully crafted. Through a full read-through, I identify the major elements that are working, as well as the areas that may need deeper development to help your story reach its fullest potential.
You will receive a written 15+ page editorial brief along with a personalized video walkthrough of my findings and recommendations.
Your assessment may include:
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Recommendations on where the story should begin
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Identification of pacing issues or underdeveloped sections
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Character and arc analysis
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Missed opportunities to deepen emotional connection and impact
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Structural feedback to strengthen the overall narrative
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Suggestions to improve clarity, momentum, and storytelling cohesion
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A personalized video discussing how to best approach your next revision
A manuscript assessment is a high-level editorial review and does not include direct edits or in-manuscript comments.
Investment: $0.018 per word
Developmental Edit
A developmental edit is best suited for manuscripts that have already gone through the writing and foundational crafting process, either independently or through a prior manuscript assessment.
This is a deeper, hands-on editorial collaboration focused on strengthening the structure, emotional impact, pacing, character development, and overall storytelling of your manuscript.
A developmental edit includes everything covered in the Manuscript Assessment, but takes the process significantly further. You will receive a detailed line-by-line review throughout the manuscript, including comments, notes, and editorial guidance directly within the document.
This service is ideal for writers who feel confident in the heart of their story but want professional guidance to elevate the manuscript before querying, self-publishing, or moving into final edits.
Because every manuscript is different, I will first review your opening pages to determine whether your project is ready for a developmental edit or would benefit more from beginning with a manuscript assessment.
Investment: $0.035 per word
Coaching Sessions
Feeling overwhelmed?
Or perhaps you’re not sure what your manuscript needs next.
These one-on-one coaching sessions are designed to help you gain clarity, momentum, and confidence in your writing process. Whether you’re brainstorming an idea, organizing your story, navigating creative blocks, or refining a manuscript in progress, our sessions will focus on actionable next steps tailored to your goals.
Coaching sessions may include:
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Story and memoir development
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Brainstorming and idea expansion
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Structure and narrative guidance
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Accountability and writing momentum
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Review and discussion of up to 5,000 words submitted prior to the session
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Strategy for navigating publishing or next editorial steps
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You will leave each session with greater clarity, a concrete action plan, and personalized guidance to help move your project forward.
Hourly Rate: $150
About Stephanie
Stephanie Wilson is a developmental editor, memoirist, and award-winning solo performer who helps writers transform meaningful ideas into compelling, emotionally resonant stories. With a background that blends business strategy, storytelling, and performance, she specializes in helping authors uncover the deeper structure, clarity, and emotional throughline within their manuscripts.
Stephanie is the author of the memoir Big Waves & Wooden Benches and creator of the award-winning one-woman show Forgive Me, Grandma, For I Have Sinned. Her work is known for its honesty, vulnerability, humor, and emotional depth, qualities she brings into every editorial collaboration.
As a developmental editor, Stephanie works closely with writers to strengthen story structure, pacing, character development, emotional impact, and narrative cohesion while preserving the author’s authentic voice. Her approach combines strategic insight with intuitive storytelling guidance, helping writers move beyond simply documenting events to crafting stories that fully immerse and connect with readers.
Several books Stephanie has worked on have gone on to receive awards and recognition, a reflection of both the strength of the authors she collaborates with and her commitment to helping writers elevate their work to its highest potential.
Whether working with memoirists, fiction writers, or authors developing character-driven narratives, Stephanie creates a collaborative editorial experience focused on clarity, momentum, and powerful storytelling.
For many writers, understanding the editorial process can feel overwhelming.
This roadmap offers a simplified overview of the typical journey from first draft to publication and highlights where each of my services may best support your manuscript along the way.
Start the Process
