Developmental Editor Sought – Literary Memoir, Phase 1

We are positioning this manuscript as literary fiction, so we can strengthen the narrative in service of the story, but will continue to be authentic to the people, places, conversations, and events that inspired this story. Seeking an experienced developmental editor for a completed literary fiction blending reflective narrative, oral storytelling, family history, friendship, loss, and a strong sense of place, deeply rooted in Southern and Western culture. This manuscript is unpublished and confidential. Prior to receiving any manuscript materials, the selected editor will be required to execute a nondisclosure agreement. Following this, the selected editor will receive Chapters 1-4 (18K words) and a supporting style sheet for a paid developmental review. The developmental editor for the remaining 85,000-word manuscript (Phase 2) will be selected based upon evaluation of the editor fit from Phase 1 engagement. We are ready to move ahead on both phases. The manuscript intentionally preserves two distinct voices: the memoir narrator's reflective perspective and the oral-storytelling voice of its central subject. Preserving the integrity of both voices is essential. Feedback strongly suggests one of the manuscript's defining qualities is its rawness—the sense that observations, realizations, and emotional truths are being discovered rather than merely reported. Clarity should be improved where necessary, but not at the expense of personality, rhythm, authenticity, or narrative character. For example, the editor should query rather than revise instances of deliberate sentence fragments used for rhythm or emphasis. (Zero AI writing will be obvious.) We are seeking developmental feedback on: • Narrative flow and chapter progression • Pacing and reader engagement • Structural organization • Compression opportunities • Placement of anecdotes and supporting material • Thematic cohesion • Areas where additional context or connective tissue may strengthen the narrative = = = = = = = = = = = = To ensure a strong editorial fit, please provide: • Relevant memoir or narrative nonfiction experience • A brief description of your editorial approach • Typical deliverables (editorial letter, margin comments, etc.) • Availability and estimated turnaround time • Phase 1 pricing and Phase 2 remaining-manuscript pricing = = = = = = = = = = = = Required Deliverables 1. Editorial Letter (5–10 pages) addressing: • Audience identification and expectations • Market Positioning • Manuscript's strongest assets • Narrative’s greatest risks, narrative flow, pacing, friction • Compression opportunities • Placement and effectiveness of anecdotes • Voice and voice consistency • Distinction between narrator and Crocket • Reader engagement • Structural observations • Recommendations for the balance of the manuscript 2. Margin Comments / In-Line Notes (Not line editing) • Flow concerns, structural observations, repetition • Places needing context, areas where emotional impact is or is not landing • Questions 3. Strengths Assessment A short section answering what are the manuscript's most distinctive assets? 4. Editorial Approach A brief statement, if selected, what would be your primary developmental priorities for the remaining manuscript? Chapter-by-Chapter Notes, Optional For each chapter of what works, what doesn't, what needs attention Not required, but very useful.