Developmental Editing Service
Shape Your Story from the Ground Up
If you have a draft but feel uncertain about its structure, pacing, or overall direction, you may need more than just a polish—you need a deep editorial partner. The Developmental Editing Service at Prescott Books offers comprehensive, high-level feedback to help you shape your manuscript into a more cohesive, compelling, and market-ready work.
This is where storytelling begins to take its final form.
What Is Developmental Editing?
Developmental editing—also known as structural editing or content editing—focuses on the big-picture elements of your manuscript. Rather than looking at grammar or sentence-level issues, this service addresses the core of your story:
- Plot structure and pacing
- Character arcs and development
- World-building and setting consistency
- Theme, tone, and narrative clarity
- Chapter flow and scene effectiveness
- Genre conventions and audience expectations
You’ll receive in-depth feedback and guidance to help you reshape, reorganize, and refine your manuscript at the foundational level.
How Is Developmental Editing Different?
Unlike line editing, which focuses on expression and writing style, or copyediting, which addresses grammar and consistency, developmental editing deals with story structure, content, and execution.
- Developmental Editing asks: Is the story working? Are the characters believable? Is the pacing effective?
- Line Editing asks: Are the sentences smooth? Does the writing reflect the right tone?
- Copyediting asks: Is the text technically correct and consistent?
If you’re still shaping your story—or unsure what needs fixing—developmental editing is the place to start.
Why Choose Prescott Books?
Collaborative, Strategic Guidance
Our editors partner with you to analyze your manuscript’s strengths and challenges. We offer clear, constructive feedback—always with your goals in mind.
Genre-Specific Insight
We understand the unique demands of different genres and tailor our approach accordingly. Whether you’re writing fiction, memoir, or narrative nonfiction, we know what resonates with readers.
Support Through the Process
Developmental editing can be intense. We guide you through it with a practical, encouraging tone and concrete next steps for revision.
Who Is This Service For?
- Authors with a complete draft needing structural or narrative guidance
- Writers unsure about plot, pacing, or character development
- Authors preparing for agent submission or independent publishing
- Anyone who wants professional support before revising or rewriting
What You’ll Receive
- A detailed editorial letter (8–12+ pages) addressing all key story elements
- Specific feedback on what’s working and what needs revision
- Chapter-by-chapter or section-by-section notes, where applicable
- Optional follow-up consultation to discuss ideas and next steps
Turnaround Time
Developmental edits are delivered within 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the length and complexity of the manuscript. Additional time may be needed for highly detailed projects.
Let’s Build the Best Version of Your Story
A strong story structure is the foundation of a great book. With the right guidance, you can move forward with clarity and purpose. Submit your manuscript today and take the next step toward publication.