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United States
$55/hr
82%
Job Success
Available now
Offers consultations
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I have written and edited dozens of books for my clients. I'm happy to make your next project a piece of cake. I have worked in publishing houses and managed many projects during my career. I bring a wide range of knowledge to the table.
Whether it be editing or ghostwriting a manuscript, I have the expertise and experience to help you reach your goals.
Most people don't offer the in-depth feedback I provide, but I do. My goal is to see your vision come to life. I want you to succeed.
Let's set up a time to talk about your project today.
NOTE** You'll see that I currently have a 88% Job Success Score. This is due to the fact that I just returned from Maternity Leave and I have not finished many jobs recently as a result. I've now returned to freelancing full-time and I'm excited to continue to provide excellent service to my clients.
$30/hr
100%
Job Success
$8K+ earned
Available now
Offers consultations
Start of list.
End of list.
Struggling with a manuscript that feels unfinished, unclear, or not quite ready for readers or publication?
I help authors, entrepreneurs, coaches, and business owners transform rough drafts, undeveloped ideas, and early manuscripts into polished, engaging, publication-ready books that inform, inspire, build authority, and connect with readers. Whether you need a Ghostwriter, Developmental Editor, Book Editor, Manuscript Assessment, or Publishing Consultant, I provide the guidance and editorial expertise to move your book confidently from concept to completion.
As a Ghostwriter, Developmental Editor, Book Editor, Manuscript Critique Specialist, Beta Reader, Book Formatting Specialist, and Publishing Consultant, I work with fiction and nonfiction books, novels, memoirs, business books, leadership books, self-help books, Christian books, technical books, and eBooks at every stage of the publishing process from idea development, research, manuscript creation, and developmental editing to publication-ready formatting, Amazon KDP preparation, and publishing support.
My Expertise Includes:
• Ghostwriting & Book Writing
Transforming ideas, expertise, interviews, research, and rough notes into compelling fiction and nonfiction books, novels, memoirs, business books, leadership books, technical books, self-help books, Christian books, and eBooks while maintaining your unique voice and message.
• Developmental Editing & Manuscript Development
Strengthening structure, organization, plot development, character arcs, pacing, clarity, chapter flow, reader engagement, and overall manuscript development to ensure your book delivers maximum impact and achieves its purpose.
• Structural Editing & Book Editing
Improving content organization, logical flow, consistency, readability, and narrative structure through developmental editing, structural editing, line editing, copy editing, and proofreading.
• Manuscript Assessment & Editorial Review
Providing detailed manuscript assessments, editorial feedback, manuscript critiques, and reader-focused recommendations to identify strengths, content gaps, pacing issues, inconsistencies, and opportunities for improvement before publication.
• Beta Reading & Reader Experience
Delivering honest, reader-focused feedback that evaluates pacing, engagement, clarity, character development, plot effectiveness, and the overall reading experience to help strengthen your manuscript.
• Manuscript Refinement, Content Enhancement & Fact-Checking
Refining rough drafts into clear, authentic, commercially credible writing that reflects your voice, strengthens your message, improves readability, enhances marketability, and supports accuracy through careful research and fact-checking where required.
• Book Formatting, KDP Preparation & Publishing Support
Preparing professionally formatted manuscripts for Amazon KDP and other publishing platforms, including print formatting, paperback formatting, eBook formatting, interior layout, publication-ready formatting, metadata guidance, and overall publishing preparation.
How I Work
Every project begins with understanding your goals, audience, market, and publishing objectives. From there, I evaluate your manuscript, strengthen its structure, refine your voice, improve clarity, identify content gaps, enhance reader engagement, and provide practical editorial recommendations that move your book toward publication. Whether you require ghostwriting, developmental editing, manuscript assessment, editorial feedback, publishing consultation, or formatting, my focus is always on producing a polished, professional manuscript that is ready for readers.
Experience
I have worked on fiction and nonfiction books, novels, memoirs, business books, leadership books, self-help manuscripts, Christian books, technical books, and eBooks, helping authors transform ideas into professionally crafted, publication-ready manuscripts. My experience includes ghostwriting, developmental editing, manuscript critiques, editorial assessments, beta reading, book formatting, Amazon KDP preparation, and publishing support, enabling authors to confidently move through every stage of the publishing process.
Why Work With Me?
A successful book requires far more than correct grammar. It needs a strong foundation, clear structure, compelling content, thoughtful organization, a consistent voice, engaging storytelling, and professional presentation. By combining ghostwriting, developmental editing, structural editing, manuscript assessment, beta reading, content refinement, book formatting, and publishing support, I help authors create reader-focused, professionally polished manuscripts that are ready for publication and positioned for long-term success.
Let's Talk
Whether you need a novel written from scratch, a nonfiction book professionally ghostwritten, developmental editing, a comprehensive manuscript assessment, or a detailed editorial fee
United States
$15/hr
100%
Job Success
$8K+ earned
Offers consultations
Start of list.
End of list.
I’m a professional ghostwriter and editor specializing in memoir, personal essay, narrative nonfiction, and voice-driven genre fiction projects. My background spans literary publishing, developmental editing, education, and full-manuscript collaboration with authors and other storytellers.
I help clients translate their ideas or lived experience into polished, emotionally-resonant prose, keeping with their voice and their exact specifications. Whether shaping a memoir from raw drafts or refining fiction for traditional publication, I aim to be a reliable, flexible, and detail-oriented creative partner to my clients, understanding both the art and the discipline required to finish strong work.
In addition to my ghostwriting practice, I am the founder of the dedicated horror publication, The Dread Literary Review, which has honed my ability to evaluate narrative stakes, pacing, and voice at a granular level, and has given me extensive experience developing genre fiction while respecting each author’s stylistic intent.
I also bring with me years of experience in education and psychology, which informs how I approach collaboration. This background has given me a strong foundation in interpersonal communication, audience awareness, and structural discipline, all valuable when working on complex and personal material.
My process is collaborative, structured, and transparent. I welcome open communication and feedback throughout the drafting stages, ensuring the work stays aligned with your vision. Confidentiality, discretion, and respect for authorship are central to every project I take on.
Over the course of my career, I have had the pleasure of working with Emmy award winners, Pushcart Prize nominees, and traditional literary publications. I’m especially well suited for projects that require emotional intelligence, precise voicing, and stylistic restraint. My goal is never to overwrite or impose a signature style, but to strengthen your ideas and refine the language until the work reads fluently, confidently, and unmistakably as your own.
Meredith A.
has worked
.
United States
$95/hr
100%
Job Success
$90K+ earned
Offers consultations
Start of list.
End of list.
I've been at this writing game for a long, long time--over 40 years, to be exact. I've won national writing contests, published books with small presses, been the "go-to" editor for fast-turnaround "quick books" at a major publisher, and, of course, helped dozens of individual writers to become better authors. I'm the pickiest of the picky, a crackerjack speller, and The Grammarian About Whom Your Mother Warned You.
I also wear a second hat: I've been a performing musician for most of my life--singing, primarily. I have a Bachelor of Music degree, have played the piano since I was 8, and am still involved in musicmaking today. My major was theory, but my first love Is voice, and I am continually fascinated by music history.
What a combo, huh? 😁
So...if you want the best TLC your book can get--especially if music is also a part of your life as well--you truly can't do any better. The (Singing) Book Magician is here!
Janet W B.
has worked
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United States
$25/hr
100%
Job Success
$10K+ earned
Start of list.
End of list.
If you are looking for affordable, big picture editing, you've come to the right place.
I am a development editor, line editor and beta reader who is also an agented traditionally published author with five years experience in the publishing world. I specialize in fiction, with a particular emphasis in Young Adult and Middle Grade. My favorite Genres are: Romance, Fantasy, Historical, Contemporary, Science Fiction.
My Big Picture Feedback service is perfect for authors who want focused, constructive insights. It sits above a beta reader, but cheaper than a full developmental edit.
With this service, you'll receive an editorial report covering key elements like plot, pacing, character development, and theme. I'll provide detailed suggestions on how to strengthen your story by bringing out the heart of your manuscript.
What's Included:
Comprehensive Editorial Report: A focused analysis of structure, pacing, and character development, plot (7-10 pages).
Big-Picture Feedback: A break down of the top 3-5 big picture issues I see in the manuscript.
Actionable Suggestions: Clear advice on how to improve your story, with specific suggestions and ideas on how to do it.
Personalized Approach: Tailored feedback that respects your unique writing voice and style.
My Big Picture Edit seeks to fill the gap between a beta read an a full developmental edit.
With a Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing and a Specialization in Developmental Editing from the University of Washington I understand the challenges of writing a manuscript. My goal is to provide constructive, supportive feedback that helps you move forward with clarity and excitement.
Let’s work together to make your story the best it can be! Message me to discuss your project or ask any questions.
Mindy T.
has worked
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$38/hr
100%
Job Success
Offers consultations
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End of list.
I help authors refine and prepare manuscripts for publication. With the target audience in mind, I focus on clarity, tone, and reader engagement to ensure the writing connects effectively with its intended readers. I specialize in Christian nonfiction and self-help writing, helping authors create content that is clear, structured, and audience-appropriate.
My work includes developmental feedback, copy/line editing, and proofreading. I use Microsoft Word's Track Changes to clearly mark revisions and include comments where helpful. I can also adapt my process based on project needs.
My goal is to help authors produce manuscripts they feel confident publishing, not only through detailed editing but also through clear guidance and support throughout the revision process.
Kayla G.
has worked
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United States
$18/hr
$400+ earned
Start of list.
End of list.
I am a big reader. I love to read for work and pleasure. Tho romance is my favorite genre. I will read any genre. I like to read physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks. I like giving feedback about books as well as marking parts of books that stand out to me.
Staying communicated is important to me, so let's say in touch!
$25/hr
100%
Job Success
$900+ earned
Start of list.
End of list.
You didn't write a whole book to let a typo speak first.
Ghostwritten. Edited. Designed. By one person who actually finishes books.
Here's the thing most authors learn too late: readers decide in about three seconds whether to buy your book, and your cover gets one of them. The words inside matter just as much, but only if the cover earns the click and the first page survives the scrutiny. I make sure both do.
I'm a fiction ghostwriter, editor, and cover designer for indie and KDP authors, romance above all, across contemporary, historical, paranormal, and Christian lines. I take a book from rough draft or raw idea to publication-ready, and I handle every stage myself, so nothing falls through the cracks between hands.
Ghostwriting. Full-length fiction in your voice, with the structure, dialogue, and pacing that build a readership. I've written and published my own novels, so I know story from the inside out.
Editing & proofreading. Developmental editing to shape it, line and copy editing to sharpen it, proofreading to make it flawless. I catch what you've stopped being able to see.
Cover design. Genre-true covers that signal quality and earn the click, built in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign and delivered print-ready.
Most authors come to me for one of these and stay for the rest, because a book is stronger in the hands of someone who understands all its parts. I take on a limited number of projects so each one gets the attention it deserves.
If you want your book to speak before your typos do, let's talk.
$10/hr
$300+ earned
Start of list.
End of list.
I’m Abdulrahmon, a professional Beta Reader, Developmental Editor, Proofreader, Script Coverage Reader, and Story Analyst specializing in romance, fiction, screenplays, and emotionally driven stories. I help authors and screenwriters turn promising drafts into compelling, reader-ready stories through clear, structured feedback that shows exactly what’s working, what isn’t, and how to fix it. I am committed to 100% Human Work Only – no AI-generated content.
📖 Beta Reading & Reader Reports
✔ Honest, in-depth feedback from a real reader’s perspective, including emotional flow, pacing & engagement, character chemistry & believability, tension, payoff & reader immersion, plot holes or confusing sections, and unnatural dialogue.
✔ Detailed Beta Reader Report & inline comments throughout manuscript.
✔ Fresh eyes to catch small errors or inconsistencies and share overall thoughts on the story.
✍️ Developmental & Structural Editing
✔ Perfect for manuscripts or scripts that need deeper work, focusing on story structure & pacing analysis, plot development & scene effectiveness, character arc refinement, emotional layering & stakes, and narrative flow & clarity.
✔ Revision roadmap with actionable guidance.
✔ Strengthening plot, characters, and genre tropes.
🎬 Script Coverage & Script Doctoring
✔ For screenwriters, filmmakers, and TV pilot creators.
✔ Professional script coverage reports, story notes & scene analysis, character motivation feedback, dialogue & pacing fixes, and script doctoring for stronger impact.
✔ Genre alignment & audience engagement.
📝 Line Editing, Copy Editing & Proofreading
✔ Line editing for flow and clarity, refining prose and dialogue while preserving author style.
✔ Copy editing for consistency and precision (grammar, punctuation, period details).
✔ Spelling, punctuation, and error detection with an eagle-eye for consistency.
✔ Reviewing quotes to ensure they are flawless, punchy, and memorable.
📚 Genres I Work Best With
Romance (Contemporary / Dark / Paranormal / Billionaire / Enemies-to-lovers / Slow-burn)
Fantasy & Romantasy
Mystery & Psychological Thriller
Sci-Fi, Action/Adventure, Western Fiction, Christian Fiction, YA Fiction
Memoir, Mindset, Leadership, CEO Updates
Screenplays / TV Pilots
💡 Why Clients Hire Me
✔ Honest but supportive critique with actionable steps.
✔ Detailed feedback and reliable communication.
✔ Strong understanding of emotional storytelling, reader-focused + structural insight.
✔ Reliable communication & professionalism.
✔ Fast turnarounds to meet deadline pressure.
If you're looking for a Beta Reader, Developmental Editor, Proofreader, or Script Coverage Specialist who truly understands story psychology, pacing, character depth, and audience engagement, and treats your manuscript with care for bestseller quality, I’d love to help.
📩 Send me your genre, word count, and goals, and let’s make your story unforgettable.
$35/hr
100%
Job Success
$20K+ earned
Available now
Offers consultations
Start of list.
End of list.
Top-Rated Developmental & Copy Editor for Memoir and Nonfiction Books
Your ideas are powerful. Let's make sure your book does them justice.
Memoir and nonfiction authors come to me when they have something meaningful to say — but need a trusted editorial partner to help them say it with clarity, structure, and impact.
I'm Barakat, a Top-Rated developmental and copy editor on Upwork, specializing in memoir and nonfiction. Over the past two years, I've worked with authors on manuscripts ranging from focused nonfiction guides to full-length books, helping them transform raw drafts into polished, reader-ready work.
One client said it best:
"Barakat went above and beyond the assignment. She provided me exactly what I needed and helped shape my direction."
Whether your book is about business, personal growth, lived experience, or hard-earned expertise — I'll help you structure it clearly, refine it professionally, and get it ready for the readers it deserves.
EXPERIENCE
In the past few years, I've partnered with authors and professionals across a wide range of nonfiction projects — including a 35,000-word manuscript on AI for business, self-help workbooks, and memoir-style narratives. Clients consistently highlight three qualities in my work: I communicate clearly, I deliver under pressure, and I never lose sight of what the author is trying to achieve.
Clients have described working with me as:
✦ "Extremely professional. Even under tight deadlines, she delivered high-quality work and maintained great communication."
✦ "She thought ahead and made valuable suggestions that improved the final result."
✦ "Detailed, thoughtful feedback — and open to short turnaround times."
I bring that same level of care and commitment to every manuscript I work on.
WHO I WORK WITH
Memoir writers ready to shape their personal story into a compelling, emotionally honest narrative.
Nonfiction authors — coaches, consultants, and experts — turning their knowledge into a structured, reader-focused book.
First-time authors preparing their manuscript for self-publishing or professional submission.
Authors who want an editor that listens, communicates, and treats their manuscript with the same seriousness they bring to writing it.
If you want a collaborative partner rather than just a proofreader, we'll work well together.
SERVICES OFFERED
Developmental Editing
Big-picture guidance on structure, flow, pacing, and reader engagement. You'll receive a detailed editorial report covering what's working, what needs strengthening, and a clear path forward — so revision feels purposeful, not overwhelming.
Copy Editing
A thorough line-by-line review of grammar, punctuation, spelling, consistency, and style. Your manuscript will meet professional publishing standards while sounding completely like you.
Proofreading
A precise final pass to catch every remaining error before your book reaches readers. Clean, consistent, and publication-ready.
Beta Reading & Feedback
An in-depth reader response covering clarity, engagement, structure, and overall impact — ideal for authors who want honest, thoughtful feedback before moving into full editing.
WHAT SETS MY WORK APART
✓ I think ahead — not just fixing what's there, but anticipating what your manuscript needs next.
✓ Your voice stays intact — I sharpen your writing without flattening what makes it yours.
✓ Detail-oriented at every level — from big-picture structure down to the final punctuation mark.
✓ Reliable under deadlines — high-quality work delivered on time, every time.
✓ Collaborative by nature — I listen carefully, follow your vision, and communicate every step of the way.
✓ Free 1,000-word sample edit — experience my editing style before making any commitment.
RECENT PROJECTS
Nonfiction Book on AI for Business (35,000 words) — Developmental editing and structural feedback on a full-length nonfiction manuscript. Delivered a comprehensive developmental outline, shaped the author's direction, and ensured the content was clear, organized, and reader-focused. Client noted the work went far beyond expectations.
Memoir & Personal Narrative Editing — Copy editing and developmental feedback for memoir-style writing, focusing on narrative cohesion, emotional authenticity, and a consistent authorial voice throughout.
LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR BOOK
To help me understand your project before we connect, I'd love to know:
What is your book about, and who is the ideal reader you're writing it for?
What stage is your manuscript at — early draft, complete draft, or nearly ready to publish?
What is the one thing about your manuscript that you feel still isn't working the way you want it to?
Ready to take your manuscript to the next level?
Send me a message today. I'll review your project details and respond within 24 hours with a clear, honest recommendation — no pressure, just a genuine conversation about your book and the best path forward.
Your story matters. Let's make sure it lands.
Barakat Oluwabunmi B.
has worked
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