Professional Editing & Book Coaching

For the love of books (and the people who write them)

Little girl sitting at a table with a typewriter in black and white

Sarah N. Harvey

Editor, book coach, writer

 

I am a former in-house children’s book editor, a published author, and now a freelance editor and book coach. Over the past two decades, I’ve had the privilege of helping writers at every stage of the creative process—from shaping early drafts to preparing polished manuscripts for publication.

Whether you’re writing a novel, a memoir, nonfiction, or a children’s book, I’ll work with you to strengthen your writing while respecting your voice, your vision, and your goals.

How I Can Help

 I offer editorial and coaching services tailored to where you are right now.  Whether you’re just beginning a book, revising what seems like your hundredth draft, or getting ready to submit or self-publish, I can see not just what’s on the page but what the book could become.

Manuscript Assessments
A detailed evaluation of your manuscript’s strengths, challenges, and marketability, with clear recommendations for revision.

Developmental and Structural Editing
Big-picture editing that focuses on structure, pacing, plot, character, voice, clarity, and tone.

Line (Stylistic) Editing
Careful attention to every word, paragraph and chapter, with a focus on  consistency, style, and the countless details that make a manuscript sing.

Book Coaching
For writers who want ongoing guidance, encouragement, and practical editorial advice as they develop their manuscript.

Publishing Insights and Support

I know how publishing works and how frustrating and difficult it can be to navigate those murky waters.

I can help you identify your best possible publishing scenario. Every writer has a unique publishing path, and we’ll look at all the options together: querying agents, researching the best fit for the book, pursuing traditional publishing or deciding to self-publish.

Why Work With Me?

Writing a book takes courage. Sharing it with an editor takes trust.

I work collaboratively with my clients,  listening first, then reading, then providing honest, constructive feedback, and a commitment to making your book the best it can be. Whether you’re a first-time author or an experienced writer, you’ll receive thoughtful editorial guidance, practical suggestions, encouragement, and laughter throughout the process.

A Little About Me

Books have shaped my entire life. From myopic five-year old to professional editor, I have rarely been without a book close at hand.

I’ve worked as a bookseller, reviewer, teacher, published author, and in-house editor. My years as a children’s book editor gave me an insider’s understanding of how manuscripts are evaluated, developed, and prepared for publication. Today, I bring that same editorial insight to writers working in fiction, memoir, nonfiction, and children’s literature.

I know that every manuscript represents months—or years—of work. That’s why I approach every project with respect, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help writers succeed.

If you want to know more about me, you’ll find more on the  About Me page.

Let’s Talk

Choosing an editor is an important decision.

If you’re wondering what kind of editorial support your manuscript needs—or whether you’re ready for the next step—I’d be happy to talk with you. Twenty-minute consultations are free.

Let’s start with a conversation about your project and how I can help you reach your writing goals.

I acknowledge and respect the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples on whose traditional territories I live, work and play.

Sarah N. Harvey

Editor, book coach, writer.

Helping writers polish their work - word by word, sentence by sentence - since 2005.