Best Developmental Editors

Find professional developmental editors to strengthen your manuscript's structure, story, and characters. — Page 2 of 2

Elizabeth DeNoma

Elizabeth DeNoma works as a developmental editor, ghostwriter and translator based in Seattle, USA. She is known for working in fiction, non-fiction, mystery & thriller and memoir & biography, collaborating with authors. She holds a PhD.

Elizabeth DeNoma
Catherine Dee

Catherine Dee

Catherine Dee works as a developmental editor and copy editor. Catherine specializes in nonfiction and self-help, helping nonfiction authors.

Adina Edelman

Adina Edelman is a developmental editor, copy editor and proofreader. She specializes in memoir, fiction, young adult and children's books, serving authors of memoir and fiction.

Adina Edelman
Stephanie Clarke

Stephanie Clarke

Stephanie Clarke is an experienced developmental editor, copy editor and proofreader. She largely concentrates on nonfiction, self-help, business and technical books, helping authors seeking commercially viable manuscripts.

Christine Pride

Christine Pride works as a developmental editor, book coach and line editor. She is an expert in fiction, non-fiction, romance and memoir.

Christine Pride
Adam Rosen | AMR Editorial

Adam Rosen | AMR Editorial

Adam Rosen | AMR Editorial is an experienced developmental editor and line editor. He is an expert in nonfiction, memoir, business and academic, serving authors publishing traditionally and self-publishing.

Lisa Jordan

Lisa Jordan is an experienced developmental editor, proofreader and book coach. She mostly focuses on fiction, non-fiction, science fiction & fantasy and young adult.

Lisa Jordan

Colm Farren

Colm Farren works as a developmental editor, copy editor and proofreader based in Dublin. He largely concentrates on fiction, non-fiction, science fiction & fantasy and mystery & thriller.

Lauren Dooley

Lauren Dooley is an experienced developmental editor, copy editor and proofreader, with 5 years of experience. She mostly focuses on fantasy, sci-fi, horror and crime thrillers, serving indie authors. She holds an MA in Publishing.

Jessica Hammerman

Jessica Hammerman is a developmental editor, copy editor and proofreader, with over 25 years in the industry. She focuses on historical fiction, memoir, fantasy and business writing, working with authors. She holds a PhD in history.

Elli Comeau

Elli Comeau works as a developmental editor and book coach located in United States. She is known for working in fiction, science fiction & fantasy, mystery & thriller and young adult.

Jennifer Herrington

Jennifer Herrington is a developmental editor, copyeditor and book coach. She mostly focuses on romance, dark romance, romantic suspense and paranormal romance, helping romance authors.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Developmental Editors

What does a developmental editor do?

Developmental editors assess the big-picture elements of your manuscript, like narrative structure, pacing, character depth, plot logic, and overall narrative arc. They typically deliver a long editorial letter and/or in-manuscript notes as the product of their work.

When should I hire a developmental editor?

Ideally, hire a developmental editor once you have a complete draft that you've already revised yourself and before hiring any other kind of editor. If you revise your document yourself, you'll get much more value from your developmental editor, because they'll be able to focus on the higher-value changes rather than low-hanging fruit.

How much does developmental editing cost?

Developmental editing is typically pricier than copy editing or proofreading due to the depth of the work involved. Rates vary by editor experience, manuscript length, and genre.

How were these professionals selected?

The professionals listed here were sourced from publicly available professional directories and listings. Profile information has been compiled from those public sources. ProWritingAid does not employ, endorse, or guarantee the services of any listed professional. We recommend reviewing each profile carefully and contacting providers directly.

How do I get started with a professional I find here?

Click 'View Profile' on any listing to read the freelancer's full profile, services, and reviews. Most professionals list their website and contact details on their profile page. You can reach out directly to discuss your project before committing. Most reputable freelancers will offer a short call before committing to using them.

About This Directory

All freelancers listed are independent professionals. They are not employees, agents, or contractors of ProWritingAid. ProWritingAid is not the service provider and in no way guarantees the quality, accuracy, or outcomes of any services. The profile information was compiled from publicly available sources and if you are the service provider you can update it via our claim form. Reviews are moderated by ProWritingAid and represent the opinions of individual clients, not the opinions of ProWritingAid.