πŸ“– Transform Your Draft into a Compelling Story

Find your way through the messy revision process - turn your full draft into a polished manuscript!

For the writer with a full draft, a tired brain, and a story that still has more to give.

Apply to Mending the Manuscript

I have helped over 500 authors develop their writing.

ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Yoanna immersed herself in my non-fiction story. I could feel that she liked my story. She did exactly the edit I wanted her to do, and at the same time adhered to my style of writing. I see her as a down-to-earth, compassionate person who takes her trade seriously. I wish her all the best, she has a great future ahead.

gerda_koch
Substantive Editing
Canada
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I couldn't have found a better editor for my novel. Yoanna is an artist with words and crafted my writing into something so beautiful that I couldn't had written it myself. I can't wait to come back to buy many more gigs from her as she turns my novel into something beautiful with her extraordinary talent.

samuelwright659
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Thank you Yoanna for going above and beyond in editing The Song of Celestra. Each one of your changes will really help immerse the reader more into the story!! Would a 1000% recommend you for anyone looking to take their story to the next level :)

‍

laszlodebrissac
Substantive Editing
France
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Yoanna was exceptional to work with. At this point I have worked with 3 editors and there are a number of reasons her work stood out for me. She has her heart in the project and dedicated herself 100 percent in order to over deliver in the most positive of ways. She went above and beyond in terms of understanding the characters in the book and therefore was able to provide valuable feedback as to how they could develop with alternative dialogues.

geehing
Substantive Editing
India
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I couldn't find a single comment that I didn't agree with and the edits are spot on. Go pro, go Yoanna!

dennis_hoeyrup
Substantive Editing
Denmark
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

As a first-time novelist, I handed Yoanna a novel that needed love. The story was there, but I had trouble making it engaging to the reader. Yoanna provided a detailed and technical review, making necessary improvements to the narrative, character dialogue, tone, and pacing. Great work, I’ll definitely use her services again.

sb_trend
Substantive Editing
Australia
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

This is the second project I've worked on with Yoanna in a very short time. She showed the same, remarkable level of detail as she did with my first project. Her tracked changes and notes on the editorial review are reflective of her masterful, and deep understanding of the editing process. She is careful to preserve the author's voice while heightening tension and clarity. Yoanna helps a project to be the absolute best version of itself and there's no one I would rather have for a co-pilot in publishing my works.

authornickbetts
Substantive Editing
Canada
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Absolutely incredible! This is the second time I've had the pleasure of working with Yoanna, and she has far exceeded my expectations once again. Her attention to detail is astonishing β€” every word was carefully considered, and yet she perfectly maintained my voice. It's as if she knew exactly what I wanted, but made it even better than I could have imagined. The care and dedication she puts into her work are truly rare.

simonagio
Substantive Editing
UK
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Yoanna’s editorial process is thorough and thoughtful. She takes the time to understand the essence of my writing and offers insightful suggestions that elevate the overall quality. Her keen eye for fine details and commitment to maintaining my voice's integrity have significantly improved my manuscript. She has a talent for refining content without losing its original meaning, making it more accessible and impactful for readers. Her feedback is always constructive and encouraging.

hossamaldin_b
Substantive Editing
Saudi Arabia
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I am so happy I hired Yoanna! She did an AMAZING job with my chapter edit. Her professionalism and attention to detail were top-notch. Plus, she was very responsive and cooperative, delivering everything on time. Highly recommend!

far_silv
Substantive Editing
Sweden
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Her attention to detail and dedication to preserving my voice and intent transformed my writing in the best possible way. She not only made the narrative flow more smoothly but also enhanced readability without losing the raw, vivid nature of my original storytelling. Her insightful suggestions for clarity, grammar, and structure brought out the best in each chapter, allowing my ideas to resonate more powerfully with readers. I truly appreciated her sensitivity to my material and her skill in crafting a polished, impactful final product.

nbiaboy
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Professional to the end. Her excellent insights and corrections helped shape the book into the shape it is now. She was very polite and could answer any questions you may have with great detail. You are behind if you are an aspiring book writer and do not hire her. Would 100% come back to her and recommend her to anyone!

cesarbianco
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I had struggled to keep the narrative tight, improving readability and flow. I am thrilled you are my editor. The book in such a good shape now that I feel confident the next stages in publication will be faster and smoother. The project was not easy - 360K words across two books, an emotionally heavy story that is narrated in 3 POVs, transitions between the past and present - you handled all the challenges with the ease of a seasoned pro. I cannot thank you enough for your efforts. You are now my favorite, go-to editor.

avamilns
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

How many more 5-star reviews do you need to go through to finally decide that Yoanna is a wonder to work with? As writers, our books are precious to us. Trusting them to others, especially in a fragile unedited state, is scary. Worry not. Kindness, insight, direction. These are all the things you can expect from Yoanna, and then some. Reach out to her. Your book will be better for it, I guarantee it -

casper_bekkers
Substantive Editing
Australia
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Wow. I'm so glad I trusted Yoanna with my novel. They seemed to know exactly what my novel needed and where it needed it, not just suggesting changes but helping me implement them. They're not just a fantastic editor, but a fantastic writer, too, and was able to put to words what I was struggling to convey the whole time. They seemed to really care for my manuscript and perfectly balanced critique with words of encouragement. Without their help, I wouldn't have the ability or confidence to proceed with my work. I can't recommend Yoanna enough.

msallan703
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Getting my novel back and seeing the magic she worked on it…I don’t even think I can explain it. She was thorough, and reasons behind every change, and would offer me sweet, encouraging compliments throughout. She made sure to make changes without sacrificing my voice. Yoanna went above and beyond. If you were still on the fence about hiring an editor, look no further. Yoanna is a magical human being and I’m so thankful for her! I honestly cannot wait to work on future projects with her!

‍

naomibeetee
Substantive Editing
Canada
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Yoanna immersed herself in my non-fiction story. I could feel that she liked my story. She did exactly the edit I wanted her to do, and at the same time adhered to my style of writing. I see her as a down-to-earth, compassionate person who takes her trade seriously. I wish her all the best, she has a great future ahead.

gerda_koch
Substantive Editing
Canada
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I couldn't have found a better editor for my novel. Yoanna is an artist with words and crafted my writing into something so beautiful that I couldn't had written it myself. I can't wait to come back to buy many more gigs from her as she turns my novel into something beautiful with her extraordinary talent.

samuelwright659
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Thank you Yoanna for going above and beyond in editing The Song of Celestra. Each one of your changes will really help immerse the reader more into the story!! Would a 1000% recommend you for anyone looking to take their story to the next level :)

‍

laszlodebrissac
Substantive Editing
France
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Yoanna was exceptional to work with. At this point I have worked with 3 editors and there are a number of reasons her work stood out for me. She has her heart in the project and dedicated herself 100 percent in order to over deliver in the most positive of ways. She went above and beyond in terms of understanding the characters in the book and therefore was able to provide valuable feedback as to how they could develop with alternative dialogues.

geehing
Substantive Editing
India
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I couldn't find a single comment that I didn't agree with and the edits are spot on. Go pro, go Yoanna!

dennis_hoeyrup
Substantive Editing
Denmark
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

As a first-time novelist, I handed Yoanna a novel that needed love. The story was there, but I had trouble making it engaging to the reader. Yoanna provided a detailed and technical review, making necessary improvements to the narrative, character dialogue, tone, and pacing. Great work, I’ll definitely use her services again.

sb_trend
Substantive Editing
Australia
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

This is the second project I've worked on with Yoanna in a very short time. She showed the same, remarkable level of detail as she did with my first project. Her tracked changes and notes on the editorial review are reflective of her masterful, and deep understanding of the editing process. She is careful to preserve the author's voice while heightening tension and clarity. Yoanna helps a project to be the absolute best version of itself and there's no one I would rather have for a co-pilot in publishing my works.

authornickbetts
Substantive Editing
Canada
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Absolutely incredible! This is the second time I've had the pleasure of working with Yoanna, and she has far exceeded my expectations once again. Her attention to detail is astonishing β€” every word was carefully considered, and yet she perfectly maintained my voice. It's as if she knew exactly what I wanted, but made it even better than I could have imagined. The care and dedication she puts into her work are truly rare.

simonagio
Substantive Editing
UK
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Yoanna’s editorial process is thorough and thoughtful. She takes the time to understand the essence of my writing and offers insightful suggestions that elevate the overall quality. Her keen eye for fine details and commitment to maintaining my voice's integrity have significantly improved my manuscript. She has a talent for refining content without losing its original meaning, making it more accessible and impactful for readers. Her feedback is always constructive and encouraging.

hossamaldin_b
Substantive Editing
Saudi Arabia
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I am so happy I hired Yoanna! She did an AMAZING job with my chapter edit. Her professionalism and attention to detail were top-notch. Plus, she was very responsive and cooperative, delivering everything on time. Highly recommend!

far_silv
Substantive Editing
Sweden
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Her attention to detail and dedication to preserving my voice and intent transformed my writing in the best possible way. She not only made the narrative flow more smoothly but also enhanced readability without losing the raw, vivid nature of my original storytelling. Her insightful suggestions for clarity, grammar, and structure brought out the best in each chapter, allowing my ideas to resonate more powerfully with readers. I truly appreciated her sensitivity to my material and her skill in crafting a polished, impactful final product.

nbiaboy
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Professional to the end. Her excellent insights and corrections helped shape the book into the shape it is now. She was very polite and could answer any questions you may have with great detail. You are behind if you are an aspiring book writer and do not hire her. Would 100% come back to her and recommend her to anyone!

cesarbianco
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

I had struggled to keep the narrative tight, improving readability and flow. I am thrilled you are my editor. The book in such a good shape now that I feel confident the next stages in publication will be faster and smoother. The project was not easy - 360K words across two books, an emotionally heavy story that is narrated in 3 POVs, transitions between the past and present - you handled all the challenges with the ease of a seasoned pro. I cannot thank you enough for your efforts. You are now my favorite, go-to editor.

avamilns
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

How many more 5-star reviews do you need to go through to finally decide that Yoanna is a wonder to work with? As writers, our books are precious to us. Trusting them to others, especially in a fragile unedited state, is scary. Worry not. Kindness, insight, direction. These are all the things you can expect from Yoanna, and then some. Reach out to her. Your book will be better for it, I guarantee it -

casper_bekkers
Substantive Editing
Australia
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Wow. I'm so glad I trusted Yoanna with my novel. They seemed to know exactly what my novel needed and where it needed it, not just suggesting changes but helping me implement them. They're not just a fantastic editor, but a fantastic writer, too, and was able to put to words what I was struggling to convey the whole time. They seemed to really care for my manuscript and perfectly balanced critique with words of encouragement. Without their help, I wouldn't have the ability or confidence to proceed with my work. I can't recommend Yoanna enough.

msallan703
Substantive Editing
USA
ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…ο€…

Getting my novel back and seeing the magic she worked on it…I don’t even think I can explain it. She was thorough, and reasons behind every change, and would offer me sweet, encouraging compliments throughout. She made sure to make changes without sacrificing my voice. Yoanna went above and beyond. If you were still on the fence about hiring an editor, look no further. Yoanna is a magical human being and I’m so thankful for her! I honestly cannot wait to work on future projects with her!

‍

naomibeetee
Substantive Editing
Canada
where to even start?
only plot, no story
missing character growth
A woman with green head bow comfortably seated on a bed, engaged with her laptop, surrounded by a warm, inviting, and bookish space.

You have written the manuscript.

First of all: that is not small. HUGE CONGRATULATIONS! Seriously, pat yourself on the back because this is HARD!

Do you know that only about 3% of people who start writing a book ever complete a full draft? You are one of them!

You have taken the idea out of your head and put it onto the page, which means you have already done the thing many people only talk about doing.

But now you are standing in the strange, foggy land after the first draft. You know the story has potential.

You also know something is not working.

And the more you reread it, the harder it becomes to tell whether the issue is plot, pacing, character, structure, prose, or simply the fact that you have stared at Chapter 7 so many times it no longer looks like language and you hate it.

Apply to Mending the Manuscript

Your trusted editor & book coach.

5+

Years Experience

1k+

Edited Manuscripts

54

Client Nationalities

β€œThe pacing is off” is not a revision plan.

So you start revising in circles.

You cut a scene. Then add it back. Then rewrite the first chapter. Then decide the whole book might be broken. Then spend forty-five minutes changing one sentence and call it a revision session because, technically, something happened. And then you are exhausted and you want to burn the book (or better, your laptop).

You are not bad at revision. The problem is that your manuscript has not been properly diagnosed.

Different text message giving advice like: "Make the character stronger, raise the stakes, middle drags, etc." and explaining that it is not enough of an advice on its own.
Mending the Manuscript helps you find the root issue before you spend another month polishing the sentences around it .
missing connection
not enough change
boring middle
weak opening
flat character
Person reviewing a manuscript, making handwritten edits with a pen on paper.

Most revision problems are symptoms, not root causes.

A slow chapter may not be slow because it is too long.

It may be slow because nothing changes.

A flat character may not need more backstory.

They may need clearer desire, stronger pressure, or more meaningful choices.

A weak opening may not need a prettier first line. It may need a clearer promise to the reader.

A messy middle may not need more events.It may need escalation, consequence, and emotional movement.

This is why revision gets overwhelming. You are trying to fix the visible problem, but the real issue may be sitting deeper in the manuscript, quietly drinking tea and causing trouble.

Mending the Manuscript helps you stop tinkering and start revising with direction.

By the end of this program, you will have:

  • a clearer understanding of what is working in your manuscript
  • a practical diagnosis of what is weakening the reader experience
  • a prioritised revision plan
  • developmental feedback on story, structure, character, pacing, emotional logic, scene purpose, voice, and genre expectations
  • what may be missing from your current idea, outline, or early pages
  • inline comments showing how the bigger issues appear on the page
  • coaching support to help you understand and apply the feedback
  • a stronger sense of what your manuscript needs next

The goal is to help you revise with clarity, craft knowledge, and confidence.

Why work with me on revision?

I have worked with writers across genres, stages, and countries, from early drafts to complex manuscripts preparing for publishing.

My approach is rooted in editorial diagnosis. That means I do not simply tell you that something β€œneeds more tension” or β€œfeels slow.” I help you understand what is causing that effect.

Because β€œthis scene drags” is only useful when we know why.

Is the scene missing conflict?
Is the character too passive?
Is the emotional beat underdeveloped?
Is the information repeated?
Is the story not changing by the end of the scene?
Is there a better way to introduce the details?

That is the level of clarity we are looking for.

About me
The Bookish Path

How it works

Mending the Manuscript follows The Bookish Path: Diagnose, Direct, Deepen. This is the same editorial framework behind all of my signature support, adapted specifically for early-stage writers.

Bookish with Yo Mascot icon holding a Graph/Checkbox Sheet.
01

Diagnose

First, I assess the manuscript as a full reader experience (this is also known as editorial assessment).

I look at: story shape, premise,
structure, plot movement, pacing, character arcs, emotional logic, scene purpose, stakes, tension,
voice, prose patterns, genre expectations, reader promise.

The goal is to identify what is creating the biggest impact on the manuscript.

Bookish with Yo Mascot icon holding a compass.
02

Direct

Then, we turn the diagnosis into a revision plan.

You will know: what we need to fix first, what can wait, what the main revision priorities are, which issues are connected , which changes could create the biggest improvement, how to move through the revision without trying to repair the entire book at once.

Revision becomes much easier when every note is not screaming at the same volume.

Bookish with Yo Mascot icon on top of a book
03

Deepen

Then, we work through the deeper manuscript layers.

Depending on your book, this may involve: strengthening the story spine, clarifying character motivation, improving scene purpose, deepening emotional beats, strengthening voice, etc.

This is where the book becomes stronger, not because it is made more generic, but because its own intentions become clearer on the page, both for you and for your readers.

What is included in
Mending the Manuscript

I always try to tailor the program based on the progress and skills of the writer and create an environment where they can develop their craft with gentle directions and hands-on support.

Apply to Mending the Manuscript
Inline comments

You receive comments directly on the manuscript, so you can see how bigger issues appear on the page.

These may flag unclear motivation, missed emotional beats, slow scenes, repeated information, tension drops, prose patterns, or moments worth protecting.

‍
Custom craft workshops

Custom 1-hour workshops built around the craft areas your manuscript needs most.

We cover theory, published examples, your own pages, hands-on guidance, and tailored exercises you can keep using after we finish.
Revision roadmap

a practical plan for approaching the next draft, so every issue does not feel equally urgent.

5 editorial coaching calls

5 focused 75-min calls to clarify your story, solve craft problems, and shape your next draft steps.

A woman on a couch using a laptop participating in an online coaching call
Scene/structure tracker

a tool to help you track scenes, chapters, turning points, character movement, emotional beats, and revision priorities.

Detailed editorial report

covering what’s working, what needs attention, our core revision priorities, and what to focus on next.

This becomes our main revision guide.
Personalised Notion dashboard
Tailored craft resources
‍
Extended
Comprehensive editing

Developmental editing, line editing, and proofreading to strengthen your story, refine your prose, and prepare your manuscript for its next stage while preserving your voice.

‍

Extended
+ 1 coaching call

an extra call to discuss the edits made and how they improve the manuscript

Extended
+Β 1 craft workshops

an extra workshop on to dive deeper into one more craft area of your choice.

This is for you if…
  • You have a complete or mostly complete manuscript.
  • You know the book has potential, but something is not working yet.
  • You feel too close to the story to see it clearly.
  • You have received feedback but do not know how to act on it.
  • You keep editing sentences when the real issue may be structural.
  • You want deep developmental feedback.
  • You want practical craft guidance, not vague encouragement.
  • You are ready to make meaningful revisions.
  • You want honest feedback that is still kind, respectful, and voice-protective.
This is not the right fit if…
  • You only want proofreading.
  • You only want copyediting.
  • You want someone to rewrite the book for you.
  • You want someone to write the book for you.
  • You have only an idea or a very small amount of material.
  • You are not ready to revise.
  • You want guaranteed publication outcomes.
  • You are looking for praise only.
If you are still shaping an early idea or partial draft, start with Deep in the Draft.
Explore Deep in the Draft
Yoanna wearing a floral dress smiling brightly at the camera, exuding joy and confidence.

Join Mending the Manuscript today!

Let me help you stop feeling lost inside the draft you worked so hard to finish.

Pricing

Investment

A deep editorial program for writers ready to revise with clarity and support. Final pricing depends on manuscript length, condition, timeline, and level of support needed.

a focused 3-month hands-on program
price estimate

$1100

words
60 000
60k
200k

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form

Includes:‍

core
full manuscript editorial assessment
detailed editorial report
in-line comments
revision roadmap
5 editorial coaching calls
1 writing workshop
scene/structure tracker
personalised Notion dashboard
tailored craft resources

Extended
everything from CORE
+ developmental editing, line editing, proofreading
+ 1 editorial coaching call
+ 1 writing workshop

Apply to Deep in the Draft
Payment plans are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a completed manuscript?

Ideally, yes. Mending the Manuscript is designed for complete or nearly complete drafts. If you are still working from an idea, outline, or early pages, Deep in the Draft may be a better fit.

Is this developmental editing?

Yes, this is primarily developmental editing with editorial coaching. The focus is the big-picture story experience: structure, plot, pacing, character, emotional logic, scene purpose, voice, and reader experience.

Will you line edit my manuscript?

Not as the main focus. I will comment on prose patterns and offer line-level examples where useful, but this is not a full line edit unless you select the Extended option.

What genres do you work with?

This can work across a range of fiction genres. If your manuscript has specific genre expectations, such as fantasy, romance, mystery, historical fiction, YA, or literary fiction, we will discuss those as part of the editorial process.

What if my manuscript is very long?

Manuscripts over 200,000 words are quoted custom because they require more reading, assessment, and support time.

Will this make my manuscript publishable?

This program can help strengthen your manuscript and prepare it for the next stage, but no editor can ethically guarantee publication, agent interest, or sales.

What happens after the program?

Your next step may be another revision pass, line editing, copyediting, querying preparation, self-publishing preparation, or time to revise independently.

I am scared of getting feedback. Is this too intense?

The feedback is honest, but it is not designed to crush you. My job is to help you see the manuscript clearly, not make you feel small. You will know what needs work, but you will also know what is already strong and worth protecting.

Still unsure or have more questions?

You can contact me through the form or book a free discovery call where we can discuss your project. For any other inquiries, please drop me an email.

Contact me