Jessica’s thoughtful, in-depth approach to developmental editing is pitch perfect! Her insightful questions and comments struck right to the heart of the lingering issues in my book and gave me an easy springboard to dive back into rewrites. I can’t recommend her highly enough! ~ Cory Leonardo, Author of  The Simple Art of Flying (Aladdin/S&S) and The Emerald City Theater (Aladdin/S&S)

Are you a frustrated writer with dreams of becoming a published author? Have you queried manuscripts only to be given the feedback that your story “isn’t right” for a particular agent? Or that your readers aren’t connecting with the story/characters in the way you want them to? Have you shared with critique partners and beta readers, made every change you can think of, and still feel like something isn’t quite working, but you don’t know what to do next?

I’d love to help!

My experience includes nearly two decades in the industry, four books published with Greenwillow/HarperCollins, multiple awards and accolades, and a successful track record helping other writers reach their publishing goals.

I am known for providing detailed, comprehensive assessments that delve deep into the hearts of stories and include elements such as structure, plot, theme, pacing, character development, voice, and more. I pride myself on providing actionable feedback that often includes craft tips and tools tailored not only to elevate the current project but also to level up my clients’ future work. As a writer myself, I recognize that hiring an editor is a big investment and requires considerable vulnerability from an emotional perspective; being trusted with your story is an honor that I will not take lightly.

Testimonials
Jessica is one of the best editors I know in the children’s book world. She’s whip smart, clever, caring, communicative, and above all else demands deep and thoughtful analysis of all aspects in my work. Jessica has so many strengths as an editor, but her stand-out qualities include lightning-fast turnarounds on drafts, the ability to brainstorm on the fly, and editing with the careful precision of a traditional publisher. Jessica pushed me and challenged me to see my work as a professional…as a result of her guidance, I emerged from the editing experience feeling like I could handle anything as a writer. Her words of advice as well as her notes in my work have served me for every manuscript I’ve completed since…I continue to be grateful for Jessica’s expertise. ~Kit Rosewater, author of the The Derby Daredevils (Amulet)

Jessica has a particularly keen eye for overarching story issues that are difficult for writers to see when they’re close to their own story. She delivers feedback in an exceptionally kind and thoughtful manner which makes it easy to digest. In the past, she’s been instrumental for me in identifying the root causes of problems in my books and in brainstorming ways to resolve those problems. I highly suggest working with her! ~Juliana Brandt, author of The Wolf of Cape Fen (SourcebooksKids), A Wilder Magic (SourcebookKids), and Monsters in the Mist (SourcebookKids)

Jessica has a keen eye for both big picture and line level edits which took my manuscript from barely there to query ready! Her knowledge of story structure paired with a natural instinct about what works were invaluable. ~Maria Jose Fitzgerald, award-winning author of Turtles of the Midnight Moon (Penguin Random House)

Jessica’s warmth, enthusiasm and knowledge of craft were just what I needed to take my writing to the next level. I had so many “ah-hah” moments as I read her editorial letter that I knew I was in good hands. I attribute the confidence and excitement I’m feeling right now as I jump into a round of revisions with my agent to my experience with Jessica and my growth as a writer under her mentorship.  ~Heidi Stallman, Writer and Freelance Editor

Jessica was a pleasure to work with on developmental edits! She is insightful and thoughtful. She really helped me dig deeper into all areas of my manuscript, but her suggestions for strengthening various characters were exactly what I needed to hear. I would highly recommend her services. ~Niki Lenz, Author of Bernice Buttman, Model Citizen (Random House) and Team Gravy (Random House).

My manuscript was improved 110% through working with Jessica. I would never have found my agent a few weeks after Pitch Wars without her help. More than that I’ve become an inestimably better writer. I can’t recommend her strongly enough. Getting Jessica…is akin to winning the writing lottery.  ~Yael Mermelstein, award-winning author of I Promise You.