Developmental Editing & Story Coaching

Feralis Press offers developmental editing and story coaching services for writers working in horror, monster fiction, and dark fantasy. This service focuses on the foundational elements of a manuscript—structure, character development, thematic cohesion, and worldbuilding integrity—while preserving the author’s individual voice and creative intent.

Developmental editing is designed to provide strategic, high-level guidance rather than sentence-level correction. The objective is to strengthen the manuscript’s narrative architecture and emotional impact without compromising its originality or tone.


Scope of Services

Developmental editing may address, but is not limited to, the following areas:

  • Plot Structure and Pacing — Evaluation of narrative flow, escalation of tension, scene placement, and resolution to ensure sustained momentum and clarity.
  • Character Arcs and Emotional Development — Analysis of protagonist and supporting character trajectories, motivation, internal conflict, and emotional consistency.
  • Worldbuilding and Internal Consistency — Review of setting, supernatural systems, lore, and rules to identify contradictions or gaps and support long-term narrative coherence.
  • Thematic Clarity and Progression — Assessment of core themes and their development throughout the manuscript, ensuring intentionality and depth rather than repetition.
  • Genre Alignment and Intent — Consideration of how effectively the manuscript fulfills its genre aims while remaining authentic to the author’s vision.

Service Formats

Clients may select the engagement format that best suits their workflow and communication preferences.

Email-Based Developmental Coaching

This option provides comprehensive written feedback delivered electronically.

  • Detailed editorial notes and/or an editorial report
  • Strategic guidance tailored to the manuscript or project stage
  • Opportunity for limited follow-up clarification within the agreed scope
  • Suitable for clients who prefer asynchronous communication or extended reflection

One-on-One Story Coaching (Zoom)

This option provides direct, real-time consultation.

  • One 60-minute private session conducted via Zoom
  • Focused discussion of the manuscript, outline, or specific narrative challenges
  • Structured but flexible agenda based on client priorities
  • Appropriate for clients seeking immediate feedback, clarification, or revision planning

Intended Use

This service is appropriate for:

  • Early to mid-draft manuscripts
  • Writers developing complex or multi-book projects
  • Authors seeking professional guidance on structure, theme, or narrative direction
  • Projects requiring clarity before further revision or submission

A fully polished manuscript is not required; however, clients should have a defined project and clear objectives for the session or review.

Exclusions

This service does not include:

  • Line editing or copyediting
  • Proofreading
  • Ghostwriting
  • Guaranteed publication or representation

Professional Standards

Developmental editing and coaching services are offered independently of Feralis Press’s acquisition process. Participation in paid services does not influence editorial selection or publishing decisions. Feralis Press is committed to ethical, transparent, and respectful professional practices.