Martha Carlson, Editor

A seasoned, supportive developmental editor of literary fiction — compelling characters, story, craft
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Have you been revising your literary fiction manuscript for so long that you’ve lost all sense of perspective? You can’t tell what’s strong or weak in the book — or whether it’s done, only half-baked, or overdone. You’re getting conflicting or  incomplete advice from your peers. You want more feedback but feel reluctant or embarrassed to ask colleagues or mentors for more help. Maybe you’ve even considered giving up on the manuscript once and for all. It’s just not good enough. It’s just not working. 

Wait. As a developmental editor, I’ve helped many writers facing the same situation. My training and experience enable me to read your work deeply to
  • identify what aspects of your plot, characterization, and style are compelling and which need attention;
  • pay close attention both to the overall structure of your text and to your writing at the level of the sentence;
  • articulate why something in the language is a problem; 
  • suggest specific options for working through problems; and 
  • rekindle your excitement about your work.

​If you long for clarity, specific suggestions, and supportive insights, let’s talk about your manuscript. Let me put my experience as an editor, a writer, and a teacher to work for you. My goal is to serve your voice and vision, even in those moments you feel you’ve lost your way. Contact me — I look forward to hearing about your book!
"She is truly a writer’s editor. Hiring her was an investment in myself.”
​— Stacia Tolman

​Contact Martha