I am planning to write a novel. Who offers developmental editing services?

When you are ready to shape your novel's big-picture elements—like plot structure, pacing, character arcs, and world-building—you will want a developmental editor.

Options for finding and hiring a developmental editor range from curated marketplaces to professional directories and boutique agencies:

• Reedsy Marketplace features a massive, vetted directory of freelance editors, many of whom have backgrounds at major ("Big Five") publishing houses. You can filter by genre, read past client reviews, and request direct quotes.
• Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) is a professional organization where you can search an extensive database of independent, vetted editors. You can either browse member profiles or post a job listing to your specific genre and budget.
• Scribendi is an established, corporate editing firm that offers structured developmental editing services for both fiction and non-fiction with quick turnaround options and a large team of matching professionals.
• Independent / Boutique Consultants like Alyssa Matesic (a former Big Five editor who provides targeted manuscript assessments and developmental coaching) operate independently, often sharing free structural advice on platforms like YouTube before you commit to hiring them.
• Independent Fiction Editors such as Stacy Juba offer tailored packages ranging from full-story structural critiques to smaller "first impression" manuscript samples to test the waters.

If you'd like to narrow this down, tell me:

• What genre is your novel?
• Are you looking for a full manuscript critique , or coaching while you write?
• Do you prefer an independent freelancer or an agency approach?

Absolutely. For a novel, developmental editing is the stage where an editor looks at the big picture—plot, structure, pacing, characterization, themes, point of view, and whether the story is delivering what the genre promises.

Here are some reputable places to find one:

• reedsy.com — Probably the easiest place to start. You can filter editors by genre and developmental editing, review their publishing backgrounds, and request quotes from up to five editors. Reedsy says its marketplace has thousands of publishing professionals and that editors are vetted before being listed.
• the-efa.org — A large professional directory where you can specifically select Developmental Editing → Fiction and then narrow down by fiction category. This is a particularly good option if you want to hire an independent freelancer directly.
• kirkusreviews.com — Kirkus offers a managed editing service and matches manuscripts with vetted editors who have publishing-industry experience. Its Collaborative Editing service is specifically its developmental-level option, covering structure, pacing, style, tone, plot, characterization, and dialogue. It currently lists pricing at $99 + $0.03/word, with a $500 minimum.
• Independent editors — You can also hire an editor directly through their own website. This can be excellent when you find someone who specializes specifically in your genre (e.g., literary fiction, fantasy, romance, thriller, historical fiction). Reedsy and the EFA are useful starting points for finding those specialists.

What I'd recommend for your novel

If you're still writing the first draft, I wouldn't necessarily hire a developmental editor yet. It's often more useful to finish a complete draft—or at least get far enough that the editor can evaluate the entire story.

Once you have a draft, you have two particularly good choices:

Editorial assessment: A relatively lighter, big-picture evaluation. You receive an editorial letter explaining what's working, what isn't, and what revisions would have the greatest impact. This can be a good choice if you're prepared to do the rewriting yourself.

Full developmental edit: More intensive. The editor examines the manuscript in detail and provides specific guidance on structure, plot, characters, pacing, etc., often with comments throughout the manuscript as well as a detailed editorial letter.

One important tip: Don't simply choose the editor with the most impressive résumé. For a novel, genre experience and editorial compatibility matter enormously. A terrific romance editor may not be the right person for a literary mystery, for example.

If you tell me what genre your novel is, approximately how many words you expect it to be, and whether you're planning traditional or self-publishing, I can narrow this down to the best types of developmental editors to approach—and what you should expect to pay.

Absolutely. For a novel, you’ll want a developmental editor—someone who works on the big-picture elements of the manuscript rather than primarily grammar and punctuation. They can help with plot, structure, pacing, characterization, themes, point of view, and overall reader experience.

Here are some good places to find one:

• reedsy.com — Probably the easiest place to start. It has a large marketplace of professional editors, and you can filter by developmental editing, genre, and other specialties. You can request quotes from up to five editors and compare their backgrounds and experience.
• reedsy.com — Particularly useful for finding editors who specialize in fiction. Current profiles include editors specializing in romance, fantasy, science fiction, horror, mystery, literary fiction, and other genres.
• reedsy.com — If you're still fairly early in the process, consider an editorial assessment rather than a full developmental edit. It's essentially a big-picture report that gives you a roadmap for revision and can be a less expensive way to get professional feedback.

What I'd look for in your situation

Since you're planning to write the novel rather than telling me you already have a finished manuscript, I wouldn't rush to hire a developmental editor yet. A developmental editor is most useful once you have enough material for them to evaluate the story as a whole.

If you're at the idea/outline stage, a book coach or story consultant may be more appropriate. If you've completed a substantial draft, then developmental editing becomes much more valuable.

When you eventually interview editors, I'd prioritize:

1. Experience in your specific genre.
2. Experience with novels, rather than primarily nonfiction.
3. Evidence that they understand story structure and character, not merely prose polishing.
4. A willingness to provide a sample edit or consultation before you commit.
5. A clear explanation of what you'll receive—usually an editorial letter/report plus comments on the manuscript.

If you tell me what genre you're writing (e.g., literary fiction, mystery, romance, historical, fantasy, thriller) and whether you're at the idea, outline, first-draft, or completed-draft stage, I can narrow this down to specific developmental editors and services that would be a good fit.

Finding the right developmental editor (DE) for your novel depends on your genre, budget, and whether you are planning to self-publish or pitch to traditional agents . Because developmental editing focuses on the "big picture"—such as plot structure, pacing, character arcs, and world-building—you want someone who deeply understands your specific genre.

Here are the primary ways and platforms to find and hire professional developmental editors:

1. Curated Freelance Marketplaces
   • Reedsy Marketplace : Vetted marketplace featuring professional editors who have background experience with major traditional publishing houses (like Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, etc.). You can search by genre, review past projects, and request custom quotes.
   • The Darling Axe : A dedicated editorial firm providing comprehensive novel development services, including partial hook assessments, structural edits, and query package critiques.
2. Professional Associations and Directories
   • Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) Member Directory : A massive, searchable directory of professional editors. You can filter specifically by "Developmental Editing" and your novel's genre (e.g., sci-fi, romance, historical fiction). You can also post a gig on the EFA Job Board.
3. General Freelance Platforms
   • Upwork Developmental Editing Freelancers : Connects you with a wide range of independent freelance editors. Be sure to thoroughly vet profiles, ask for client testimonials, and request a sample edit to verify their editorial style.
4. Community and Critique Programs
   • RevPit (Resident Evil / Revision Pit): A seasonal annual mentoring program where developmental editors and industry professionals offer free first-page critiques and pick manuscripts for intensive developmental revamps.

Since you are just starting to plan your novel, could you tell me:

• What genre are you planning to write in?
• Are you leaning toward self-publishing or traditional querying?

I can help tailor advice on when to bring an editor on board during your writing process.

When you are ready to have your novel structurally evaluated, tuned, or critiqued, you can source professional developmental editors through several avenues . Because developmental editing focuses on "big picture" elements like plot holes, pacing, character arcs, and thematic consistency , finding someone with specific experience in your genre is essential.

The primary places and platforms to find qualified developmental editors include:

• Professional Marketplaces: You can browse Reedsy's Marketplace of Editors to filter vetted freelance professionals by genre , budget, and past traditional publishing house experience . Another option is ServiceScape Book Editing Services , which lets you browse verified profiles.
• Professional Associations: The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) Directory allows you to search a massive database of independent editors using specific filters for developmental and fiction editing.
• Editorial Agencies and Companies: Organizations like Jericho Writers Editorial Services or boutique outfits like The Darling Axe provide structured, agency-level developmental assessments , hook reviews , and manuscript evaluations.
• General Freelance Platforms: Platforms like Upwork Developmental Editors For Hire and Fiverr Pro Developmental Editors host independent talent, though you will need to vet their background and industry credentials more carefully yourself.

If you'd like to narrow this down, let me know:

• What genre is your novel?
• Are you planning to self-publish or query literary agents?

I can give you a better idea of what kind of feedback you should look for and how much a full edit typically costs.

Yes. For a novel, you’ll want a developmental editor who works specifically with fiction and, ideally, your genre. Developmental editing focuses on the big-picture elements—plot, structure, pacing, characterization, themes, tone, and narrative arc—rather than grammar and typos.

Here are several good places to look:

1. Reedsy — Developmental Editors
   Probably the easiest starting point. Reedsy has thousands of publishing professionals and lets you filter editors by genre and service. You can request quotes from up to five editors and compare their experience, profiles, and sample work.

2. Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) — Member Directory
   A large professional directory where you can specifically select Developmental Editing → Fiction and find independent editors. You can also filter for things such as first-time-author friendliness and publishing experience.

3. Book Editing Associates
   A network of professional book editors. Its developmental-editing service lets you browse editors by specialty and request a quote; you can submit to multiple editors to find a good match.

What I'd look for

For a novel, don't simply hire someone advertising themselves as a "book editor." Look for someone who has actually edited novels in your genre. For example, if you're writing fantasy, find someone with fantasy experience rather than a general nonfiction editor.

Before hiring, I'd ask for:

• A sample edit of perhaps 5–10 pages
• Examples of novels they've worked on
• Their experience specifically in your genre
• What their developmental edit includes (editorial letter, manuscript comments, revision plan, calls, etc.)
• Their fee and estimated turnaround
• Whether they offer a manuscript assessment before committing to a full developmental edit

One other option: if your manuscript isn't finished yet, you may not need a full developmental edit. An editorial assessment can be a cheaper way to get big-picture feedback on the premise, plot, characters, pacing, and weaknesses before doing major revisions.

If you tell me your novel's genre, approximate word count, and whether you're looking for traditional publishing or self-publishing, I can search for specific developmental editors who would be a good fit, including typical pricing where available.

Finding the right developmental editor (DE)—who evaluates the big-picture elements like structure, pacing, character arcs, and plot holes —depends on your genre, budget, and whether you prefer an individual freelancer or an agency.

Where to Find Vetted Freelance Editors

• Reedsy Directory : A curated marketplace featuring hundreds of vetted freelance professionals, many of whom have backgrounds with major traditional publishing houses (the "Big 5"). You can filter by genre, read reviews, and request custom quotes.
• Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) Directory : A professional organization where you can search a massive directory of independent U.S. editors specializing specifically in developmental fiction or non-fiction.
• Fiverr Pro : Offers access to vetted professional developmental editors. Be sure to look for the "Pro" verified badge to ensure industry experience.
• Independent Editorial Agencies : Companies like Jericho Writers or First Editing provide structured developmental feedback packages, often pairing manuscript evaluations with strategy calls or follow-up coaching.

Tips Before Hiring

1. Genre Match is Critical : An editor who specializes in high fantasy might not understand the precise structural beats required for a psychological thriller or contemporary romance. Look for someone with a proven track record in your exact niche.
2. Ask for a Sample Edit : Many freelance editors will do a small sample edit (e.g., 1,000 words or a single chapter) to see if their critique style meshes with your voice before you commit to a full-book package.
3. Finish Your Draft First : A true developmental edit is most effective when performed on a completed, self-edited draft rather than an in-progress manuscript.

To help narrow down the best platform or specific editor for your project, let me know:

• What genre is your novel?
• Are you planning to self-publish or query literary agents?

Yes. For a novel, you’ll generally want a developmental editor—someone who looks at the big-picture elements such as plot, structure, pacing, character arcs, point of view, themes, and whether the ending delivers on the story’s promises.

Here are some good places to find one:

• Reedsy — Probably the easiest place to start. You can filter editors by genre and developmental editing, review their backgrounds and portfolios, and request quotes from up to five editors. Reedsy says its editors include people with experience at major publishers as well as experienced independent editors.
• Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) — A large professional directory where you can specifically filter for fiction → novel → developmental editing. You can also filter for first-time-author-friendly editors and publishing experience.
• Editor World — Offers developmental editing specifically for novels and lets you choose an editor based on genre, credentials, and ratings. They also offer a sample edit.
• The Developmental — A service focused on developmental, line, and copy editing for fiction and nonfiction, including fantasy, romance, sci-fi, and literary fiction.
• Wicked Ink Publishing — Focuses on fiction and offers developmental editing covering plot, character development, pacing, and structure, with a follow-up consultation.
• Shortcuts for Writers — A freelance editor specializing in fiction and creative nonfiction, with experience working with both new writers and established authors.

What I'd recommend

If this is your first novel, I'd start with Reedsy and the EFA rather than immediately hiring the first editing company you find. The most important factor isn't simply that someone calls themselves a developmental editor—it's that they have substantial experience in your particular genre.

For example, a developmental editor who specializes in literary fiction may approach a fantasy novel very differently from someone who regularly edits fantasy.

Also, don't confuse developmental editing with proofreading. Developmental editing comes much earlier in the process and can result in substantial rewriting. The EFA's 2026 rate survey is a useful benchmark for understanding what freelance editorial services currently cost.

If you tell me what genre your novel is, approximately how many words you expect it to be, and whether you're planning traditional or self-publishing, I can narrow this down to 5–10 specific developmental editors who would be good matches, including typical pricing where available.

Developmental editing for a novel focuses on the big picture: plot structure, character arcs, pacing, theme, and overall narrative coherence . Because it is a deeply collaborative and specialized process, you'll want an editor with proven experience in your specific genre (e.g., fantasy, thriller, romance).

Where you find a developmental editor depends on whether you want a curated marketplace, an independent boutique agency, or a direct freelance directory.

1. Curated Freelance Marketplaces

• Reedsy Marketplace : One of the most popular platforms for novelists. You can browse hundreds of vetted freelance developmental editors, filter them by genre and past experience (many have backgrounds with traditional "Big 5" publishers), read portfolio details, and request custom quotes.

2. Boutique Editing & Writing Services

• The Darling Axe : Offers tiered fiction development services, ranging from partial "hook assessments" and beta reading to comprehensive developmental edits, with a team of experienced professional writers and editors.
• Jericho Writers : Founded by authors, this organization offers comprehensive developmental reports, in-text manuscript comments, and a follow-up consultation call designed to ready a novel for agent querying or self-publishing.
• Editor World : A platform where you can directly browse and choose your own human developmental editor based on transparent profiles, ratings, and turnaround times.
• Scribendi : A large, established editing company that handles book-length manuscripts and provides structural and developmental feedback options.

3. Professional Directories & Communities

• Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) : A massive professional registry where you can search for independent developmental editors who specialize specifically in fiction or creative non-fiction.
• Reddit r/HireABookEditor : A dedicated community board where independent professional book editors post their availability, portfolio credentials, and specialized genres.

Quick Tips Before Hiring

• Check the stage of your book : A developmental edit is meant for a completed first or second draft, not an outline or a half-written manuscript.
• Ask for a sample edit : Most reputable freelance editors will happily do a small sample edit (e.g., 1,000 to 2,500 words) to ensure their critique style matches your creative personality.

If you'd like to narrow this down, let me know:

• What genre are you planning to write in?
• Are you aiming for traditional publishing or self-publishing?

I can help you pinpoint the best approach or what to look for in a specialized editor.

Absolutely. For a novel, you’ll want a developmental editor—someone who works on the big-picture elements of the manuscript rather than just grammar and sentence polish. They typically look at plot, structure, pacing, characterization, point of view, themes, and whether the story delivers on the expectations of its genre.

Here are some good places to find one:

• Reedsy — Probably the easiest place to start. You can search a large pool of professional editors by genre and service, read their profiles and experience, and request quotes from multiple editors. Reedsy specifically offers developmental editing for fiction.
• Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) — A professional association with thousands of members. Its directory/job system can help you find independent editors, and it provides definitions and industry rate information for different types of editing.
• Book Editing Associates — A network specifically focused on professional book editors. You can review editors, submit your manuscript information, and have them match you with an appropriate editor. They explicitly offer developmental editing for novels.

What I'd look for in your situation

If this is your first novel, I'd prioritize an editor who:

1. Specializes in your genre — a fantasy editor, for example, may approach a mystery differently from a literary-fiction editor.
2. Has actual book-publishing experience, not merely experience proofreading.
3. Can show you specific novels they've edited or relevant publishing credits.
4. Offers a sample edit or paid manuscript assessment before you commit to a full developmental edit.
5. Gives you a substantive editorial letter explaining why something isn't working and suggesting possible solutions, rather than simply rewriting your novel for you. Reedsy describes this kind of editorial letter and annotated manuscript as typical developmental-editing deliverables.

One important distinction: if you haven't written the novel yet, you probably don't need to hire a developmental editor immediately. A developmental editor generally works from a manuscript. At the planning stage, a writing coach, story consultant, or book coach may be more appropriate.

If you tell me your genre, approximate word count (or intended length), whether the manuscript is finished, and whether you're planning traditional or self-publishing, I can narrow this down to specific developmental editors/services that would be a good fit, including typical costs.