"I was blocked on how to structure the introduction to an important project, and Elisa provided the constructive criticism I desperately needed to make it flow into a more compelling opener. She took the time to read my work, consider where there was room for improvement, and how everything could be better arranged with helpful, detailed feedback. After consulting with Elisa, things are falling into place! Her thoughtful guidance has really made the difference."

Amanda Schuster, author of Signature Cocktails, New York City Cocktails, and Drink Like a Local: New York

NEED A WRITING CONSULTANT? I gotcha covered!


I’m excited to announce that I’m hanging out my metaphorical shingle as a writing consultant.
 
How does a writing consultant differ from a developmental editor or a book coach?

  • A Developmental Editor deep dives into your manuscript, attending to story structure, pacing, character arcs, and more, and offers intensive (and sometimes extensive) feedback and assistance.
 
  • A Book Coach is like an accountability partner and mentor, often accompanying you throughout the drafting/revision process. While some book coaches are also developmental editors, not all developmental editors are also book coaches.
 
  • A Writing Consultant delivers short-term, focused assistance and/or guidance. You bring me a chapter, fifty pages, etc., with a specific problem that needs solving, and I meet with you one-on-one (via video call or in-person) for a discussion that results in clear, applicable direction. You can also come to me with a publishing dilemma (“should I go traditional or indie?” “is it time to break up with my agent?”), or help with a non-fiction book proposal.
 
 
Think of your consultation as a creative strategy session:

  • Email me a section of your manuscript (no more than fifty pages, no less than a chapter), a proposal draft, or even just an idea you’re unsure how to shape.
  • We’ll meet one-on-one (via Zoom or in-person), we’ll discuss the issue, and I’ll give you focused, applicable feedback based on my experience and expertise.
  • You’ll walk away with clarity, concrete next steps, and renewed confidence to move forward.

Examples of when to work with a writing consultant:
  • You’re stuck on your opening chapters and need to know if they’re pulling the reader in.
  • You’re deciding between traditional publishing and self-publishing and want an experienced perspective.
  • You need help drafting a proposal for a non-fiction book, or you need assistance with one particular section of the proposal.
  • You’re at a standstill in your project and need a one-time reset.
 
 
In other words, as a writing consultant, I deliver short-term support with long-term impact.

  • Experience and expertise: With a combined 25 years of experience as a former college instructor with a master’s degree in professional writing and rhetoric, as well as an international bestselling author of novels and memoirs, I know the craft and the process, and I’ll meet you where you are.
  • Encouragement without fluff: I’ll tell you what’s working and what isn’t with the intent to lift you up rather than bring you down.
  • Service-oriented: I’m here to serve your objectives, not my agenda.


Best of all, my fee is Pay What You Can

Yep, you heard me.
 
I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to need the services of an editor, cover designer, formatter, etc. I know what it’s like to prioritize those needs and to budget for them. And I know what it’s like when you can’t afford classes, conferences, or other services that could help your writing career and your book be the best they can be.
 
If you need a consultant, then I want you to be able to afford it.
 
So ask yourself: What’s the fee I can most reasonably pay at this time?
Then let me know. I accept Venmo and PayPal.

Contact me when you're ready for your first consultation!
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