If I sign up for coaching or editing services, who will I be working with?
Me (Charlene)! I personally work with every writer who signs up for services, and make every effort to understand you and your story's unique needs.
Where are you based and do you work with international writers?
I am on the eastern coast of the U.S., so my time zone is EST. That said, I'm happy to work with international writers! I would just call out a few things: 1) I would need for the manuscript to be written in English, otherwise I'm useless. 2) All payments will need to be converted to USD. 3) My experience centers around U.S. publishing, so I won't be able to speak to trends and processes in other countries.
Do I need a writing coach to get published?
No! Plenty of published authors have never worked with a writing coach. However, plenty of authors do. At the end of the day, what matters most is what works best for you.
Do I need a developmental edit to get published?
No! The most important thing before sending your work off for consideration by agents and/or editors is that you've gotten your story to the best spot you can get it to "on your own." Some writers can do this completely independently. Others leverage resources like workshops and writing groups. Some share their work with trusted readers. And some choose to seek out a developmental edit. There are many ways to go about ensuring your work is prepared to be considered for publication. I encourage you to explore all of your options and pursue the path that feels right for you and your story.
What happens during a coaching session?
You set the agenda for any of our coaching sessions. Trying to fix a plot hole? Struggling to create believable characters? Brainstorming a new idea? Maybe you're just stuck. Whatever questions you may have, writers' blocks you may be facing, or even frustrations you're feeling--these 1:1 sessions are designed to guide and support you in reaching your goals and producing your best work.
How can I improve my story without getting a coach or a professional edit?
Writers need to know other writers--to help, support, and protect each other. Whether or not you choose to work with a coach or get a professional edit, I still encourage every writer to find their community. Perhaps there are local writing groups you can join or book festivals you can attend. Social media has also become a common place for writers to find one another (try searching #writingcommunity).
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In addition to making friends, you can always share your work with beta readers (a group of trusted fellow writers/readers) for feedback, or swap pages with a critique partner. There are also a number of online blogs and videos with tips for writers--just make sure you're vetting your sources!
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Also, READ! Read regularly within the genre you want to write, and outside of it as well. Pay attention to what you like about those books and what you don't; pick up on how storytellers tell stories.
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And ever importantly, write. Even when things aren't clicking and the words aren't flowing. The more you do, the better you'll get.
Can you help me find an agent?
Sort of. No one can guarantee when or if you'll get an agent (although, I'm willing to believe that you will!)--but I can help you ready your work to be realistically considered for literary representation. I can also talk you through the querying process, work with you on a target list of agents to reach out to, help you with that notoriously difficult query letter and those extremely-important opening pages, and support you in navigating the overall experience. Unfortunately (and ethically), I am unable to provide an introduction or referral to my agent.
What's a good price to pay for a developmental edit?
There are a number of ways that editors may go about pricing for their services, and it's always worth asking them directly if you have any questions or concerns (whatsoever!) about their rates. For me, I price per word because I appreciate the transparency it gives the writer upfront.
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The Editorial Freelancers Association is a helpful guide for writers as to what current rates are generally looking like depending on the type of edit you're looking for. You can review their latest guidelines at https://www.the-efa.org/rates/
How long will it take you to complete my developmental edit?
My turnaround times depend on my current client load, but I aim to return materials within a few weeks. We'll be able to discuss timings more specifically once you're ready to book services (and, of course, I'll provide much more clarity on delivery timing before you commit to working with me).
Why are you only available to work with authors writing in certain genres/age categories?
...because I know what I don't know :) Publishing is complex and different genres have different expectations, and I would never want to waste your time or give you bad advice due to my own lack of experience in a specific area. I think it's really important for writers to be self-aware enough to know what books just aren't meant for them. The last thing I'd ever want to do is impose my feelings on a story that I'm not the right fit for, anyway.
What books have you published?
A few! You can keep up with my author life by visiting https://www.charlenethomasbooks.com/