Got a story in your head - or half a draft tucked away? I work with aspiring authors to shape their ideas into powerful, purposeful books.

From developmental editing to ghostwriting and design and publication support, I bring clarity, structure and that all important momentum to your creative journey.

BOOK DEVELOPMENT

TYPICAL PROCESS

Initial consultation - We begin with a conversation to explore your book idea, where you're up to, and what kind of support you need.
Proposal and project plan - I’ll provide a tailored proposal outlining the project scope, timeline, roles and milestones.
Concept and structure - Together, we clarify your book’s purpose, audience and core themes. I then create a working structure or chapter outline to guide the development.
Content development - Depending on your needs, I help you flesh out chapters, fill in the gaps, or rewrite material with polish and clarity.
Review and refinement - We review the manuscript in stages, making sure the tone, structure and message are working as intended.
Final polish - Once the full draft is complete, I conduct a final editorial pass for flow, consistency and readability—ensuring your book is clear, engaging and ready for the next step.
Publication support - If you plan to publish, I can guide you through next steps including finding an editor or designer, preparing a book proposal, or exploring self-publishing options.

PRICING

The price of book development work varies significantly depending on the scope. For ad hoc editing or advice, it makes sense to work to an hourly rate. For well-defined projects, it's often preferable to quote for the whole project.

EXAMPLE PROJECT

The Secret Suburb - Lapstone the early years

PURPOSE
Supporting an aspiring author to write and publish a story about founding of her hometown

PROCESS

Review text and rewrite sections that didn't flow or were inconsistent
Provide advice and edit sections that were too brief, missing important information or not relevant to the intended audience
Liaise closely with the graphic designer
Proofread text
Join the author for the book's launch at her local book shop

TIMING

This project started in 2023 and was published in 2024.

TESTIMONIAL
"A local newspaper article about Penny’s ability to authentically record social history caught my attention for a project I had been dreaming about – documenting and preserving the stories of my hometown, Lapstone. What a rewarding experience it has been working with Penny as her passion for storytelling reflects people’s own words and voices in her respectful editing style.

Penny’s professionalism, approachability, and collaborative spirit, combined with her meticulous attention to detail, were crucial in bringing the community’s stories, the spirit and essence of Lapstone to life in the book, The Secret Suburb: Lapstone - The Early Years."

Michele Corin, Author, The Secret Suburb