πŸ“š Let's get you ready to publish

Put your best foot forward - turn your manuscript
into a publishable book!

Logo for Through the Publishing Trenches.

For the writer preparing to query without wanting to stumble blindly into the industry fog.

Apply to Through the Publishing Trenches

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
locked room
stronger stakes
fresh but familiar
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 worked on the manuscript. You’ve poured your heart and soul into this story. You’ve said β€˜no’ to so many plans because you were busy drafting or revising.

Now you are thinking about agents, submissions, query letters, synopses, comp titles, first pages, and whether your book is truly ready to leave the safe space of your laptop.

Traditional publishing can feel like a locked room filled with rules nobody fully explains.

One agent wants voice.

Another wants stakes.

Another wants a β€œfresh but familiar” concept, which sounds simple until you try to define it without developing a small eye twitch (literally been there).

Through the Publishing Trenches is a traditional publishing preparation program for writers who want to approach querying with a stronger manuscript package, clearer positioning, and a practical submission plan.

Apply to Through the Publishing Trenches

Your trusted editor & book coach.

5+

Years Experience

1k+

Edited Manuscripts

54

Client Nationalities

Querying is not just β€œsending emails”

It is positioning your book clearly enough that someone can understand:
‍
● what the story is
● who it is for
● why it matters now
● what kind of reading experience it promises
● why the opening pages make them want to continue

I know that this is a lot to ask from a query letter, a synopsis, and the first few pages.

No wonder writers spiral.

Through the Publishing Trenches is a traditional publishing preparation program for writers who want to approach querying with a stronger manuscript package, clearer positioning, and a practical submission plan.
opening pages
query letter
one line pitch
comp titles
synopsis
Person reviewing a manuscript, making handwritten edits with a pen on paper.

Traditional publishing can feel confusing because the decision points are hidden.

Writers often know they need a query letter.

But they do not always know what the query needs to prove.They know they need a synopsis.

But they do not know how to make the story sound coherent without draining all the life out of it.

They know they need comp titles.

But they do not know whether comps should reflect genre, tone, audience, theme, market position, or all of the above.

They know agents ask for opening pages.

But they do not know whether those pages are creating enough story promise, character investment, tension, and momentum.The result?

Writers submit too early, revise forever, or get stuck in the terrifying middle ground of β€œI think I’m ready, but what if I’m very much not?”

This program is designed to make the next step clearer.

Through the Publishing Trenches helps you prepare your manuscript package before you step into querying.

By the end of this program, you will have:

  • a clearer understanding of your manuscript’s query readiness
  • stronger query materials
  • a more focused pitch
  • a synopsis that explains the story without flattening it
  • clearer comp title direction
  • stronger opening pages
  • a practical agent research and submission strategy
  • a query tracker
  • more confidence about what you are sending and why

This program does not promise publication, representation, or agent interest.

No ethical publishing support should.

The promise is preparation. You will understand your materials, your strategy, and your next step.

Why work with me before querying?

My work sits at the intersection of editorial feedback, craft clarity, and publishing preparation.

That means I am not only looking at whether your query letter is β€œwell written.”

I am looking at whether your materials are communicating the right promise to the right reader.

A query can fail because it is too vague.
A synopsis can fail because the emotional arc disappears.
Opening pages can fail because the story takes too long to declare what kind of experience it is offering.
Comps can fail because they are famous, mismatched, outdated, or unclear.

Through the Publishing Trenches helps you understand the whole submission package, not just one document in isolation.

About me
The Bookish Path

How it works

Through the Publishing Trenches 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, we assess where your manuscript and materials currently stand.

We look at manuscript readiness, opening pages, query concept, pitch clarity, genre positioning, comp title direction, etc.

The goal is to identify whether the book and materials are ready for querying, or whether something needs to be strengthened first.

Bookish with Yo Mascot icon holding a compass.
02

Direct

Then, we create your publishing preparation plan.

You will know what materials need work, what to prioritise before sending, how to position the manuscript, what your query package should communicate, how to approach agent research, how to build a submission tracker.

This keeps you from submitting with a vague plan or waiting endlessly for a magical feeling of readiness that may never arrive.

Bookish with Yo Mascot icon on top of a book
03

Deepen

Then, we strengthen the materials.

Depending on your needs, this may include query letter revision, synopsis development, pitch paragraph support, first pages feedback, agent research strategy, etc.

My goal is not to make false promises. We make the package clearer, stronger, and more professional.

What is included in
Through the Publishing Trenches

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 Through the Publishing Trenches
Manuscript readiness assessment

I read your manuscript in full and assess whether it feels ready for querying, or whether another revision layer may be needed first.

This may also include a closer look at your opening pages, overall positioning, genre promise, and any known manuscript concerns.
First pages review

I review up to 10,000 words of opening pages to assess curiosity, character investment, story promise, momentum, voice, tension, and clarity.

Because those first pages need to make the reader want more.
Query resilience plan

Querying is emotional, I get it.
‍
We talk about how to handle waiting, rejection, silence, revision requests, and the mental load of sending your work into the world.

Agent research strategy

We discuss how to approach agent research practically, including what to look for, what to avoid, and how to create a balanced list.

A woman on a couch using a laptop participating in an online coaching call
Synopsis support

We shape the synopsis so it explains the story clearly without turning it into a lifeless plot skeleton. The aim: show the arc, not just the events.

Pitch paragraph support

We refine the core pitch so the book can be explained clearly, whether in a query letter, call, bio, proposal, or conversation.

Submission Notion tracker
Query letter support

We shape your query so it clearly communicates the protagonist, premise, stakes, conflict, genre, tone, reader promise, and why this story is compelling.

Extended
Polishing of your first 20,000 words

We will do extensive editing of your opening to ensure it is submission-ready.

‍

Extended
2 months of agent submission

Hands-on handling of the query process

Extended
Query customisation

Customising the query letter and synopsis for each agent.

This is for you if…
  • You have a revised manuscript.
  • You are preparing to query literary agents.
  • You want help with your query letter, synopsis, pitch, comps, or first pages.
  • You are unsure whether your manuscript is ready to submit.
  • You want to understand the traditional publishing process more clearly.
  • You want a practical submission plan.
  • You want honest feedback without false promises.
  • You want to approach querying with more confidence and less chaos.
This is not the right fit if…
  • You are still in the early drafting stage.
  • Your manuscript needs major developmental revision first.
  • You want guaranteed representation.
  • You want someone to mass-submit to agents for you.
  • You are self-publishing rather than querying.
  • You do not want to revise your materials.
  • You are looking for a shortcut around the publishing process.
If you are planning to self-publish, you may be better suited to Slaying the Self-Publishing.
Explore Slaying the Self-Publishing
Yoanna wearing a floral dress smiling brightly at the camera, exuding joy and confidence.

Join Through the Publishing Trenches today!

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

Pricing

Investment

A publishing-preparation program for writers who want to query with stronger materials and clearer direction. Final pricing depends on manuscript length, materials needed, and the level of editorial support required.

Logo for Through the Publishing Trenches.
a focused 6 week program
price estimate

$1,200

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

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Includes:‍

CORE
manuscript readiness assessment
query letter support
synopsis support
pitch paragraph support
first 20 pages review
comp title guidance
agent research strategy
starting list of good-fit agents
submission tracker
query resilience plan
personalised Notion dashboard
publishing next-step plan

EXTENDED
everything from CORE
+ polishing of your first 20,000 words
+ expanded agent research list
+ 2 months of hands-on agent submission support
+ query customisation for selected agents
+ support preparing forms, emails, and requested materials
+ tracking responses, deadlines, and follow-ups

Apply to Through the Publishing Trenches
Payment plans are available.

IMPORTANT BOUNDARY FOR SUBMISSION SUPPORT
‍
For the Extensive option, I can support and manage the submission process with you, but you remain the author and final decision-maker.

That means:
you approve the final query package before anything is sent
you approve the agent list and submission batches
submissions are made under your name
you remain responsible for confirming all information in forms and emails
you manage or approve any sensitive account/login information
you make the final decision on responses, offers, revisions, or next steps
I can help you prepare, customise, organise, and submit.

I cannot guarantee representation, requests, publication, or agent interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a finished manuscript?

Yes. For traditional publishing support, you should usually have a complete and revised manuscript, especially for fiction.

Will you guarantee that I get an agent?

No. No one can ethically guarantee agent interest, representation, publication, or sales. This program helps you prepare stronger materials and a clearer submission strategy.

Can you help me find agents?

Yes, I can help you understand how to research agents, build a balanced list, and create a submission tracker. I do not promise agent access or guaranteed responses.

Can you write my query letter for me?

I can help shape, revise, and strengthen your query letter, but the materials should still represent your book and voice. The aim is not to make your pitch sound like someone else wrote it.

What if my manuscript is not ready?

If the manuscript needs more revision before querying, I will tell you. The best publishing strategy is not sending too early and hoping for the best.

Can this include first pages feedback?

Yes. First pages are a key part of the query package and can be included.

What if I need developmental editing first?

If the manuscript needs deeper revision, Mending the Manuscript may be the better next step before this program.

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