If you’re working on a memoir, biography or non-fiction book and need a trusted mentor with a sharp editorial eye, you’re in the right place.
With over 20 years’ experience in the industry, I’ve edited, proofread and ghostwritten a wide range of titles, helping writers shape their ideas into clear, compelling and publishable work.
Alongside my publishing work, I’ve written screenplays – several of which have been optioned – and I’m always happy to offer a thoughtful critique or a professional polish, particularly in the dramedy and comedy space.
For both expert guidance, and a cheerleader who will shepherd you through the process, email lisamarksmedia@gmail.com.
What Lisa’s clients say
“Lisa believed in me when others did not and helped shape my journals into what became my memoir. She guided me with skill, integrity and sensitivity, always knowing when to challenge and when to step back. Her experience was invaluable.”
— Darren Ryan, author of Lifeline
Lifeline, the book written by the author you see above, is now available to buy on Amazon.
DEVELOPMENTAL BOOK EDIT
A developmental edit is a comprehensive and crucial stage of the editing process, focusing on the manuscript as a whole.
This step evaluates the big picture: the clarity of your argument, the logical flow of information, the effectiveness of your thesis or main idea, and the overall organisation of your chapters.
- Are the key points well-supported?
- Does the manuscript’s structure guide the reader smoothly from one concept to the next?
- Do we take the reader on a compelling – and educational – journey?
This is the time to assess whether the work engages its target audience and achieves its intended purpose.
Beyond content, the developmental edit also considers how well the writing supports the book’s objectives.
- Are the sections clearly defined?
- Is the tone appropriate for the subject matter and the readers?
This is a chance to refine your voice and ensure that the message resonates with clarity and authority.
As your editor, I will mark up the manuscript in track changes with feedback, including comments on structure, flow, and consistency. I’ll identify areas where more detail is required or where transitions between sections can be improved.
Additionally, I’ll provide you with any necessary editorial notes that address overarching concerns and offer strategic recommendations for revising your manuscript.
The process is designed to help you refine your work and elevate it to a professional standard, making it more compelling and engaging for your target audience.
This service also includes a follow-up consultation to discuss the first-round notes and clarify any feedback, as well as a secondary lighter edit/polish.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lisa Marks for editing articles and books, and I
can’t recommend her enough. Lisa is a top-tier, A+ editor who can wrestle any
manuscript or article into submission and truly make the words and topic sing. If you’re
looking for an editor who can elevate your writing and deliver exceptional results, Lisa
Marks is the way to go.” – Margo Blacke
PROOF READING
This is the final -and very important – editorial stage in the book production process before the book goes to print.
It’s the final opportunity to catch any issues or errors that might have been introduced at the typesetting stage. It also catches any last-minute typos or errors that may have survived the copy edit.
BOOK PROPOSALS
A book proposal is essentially a substantial business plan for your book, designed to persuade publishers that this is the book the world needs right now – and that you’re the ideal person to write it.
It is the bulk of your submission package to publishers. If your proposal succeeds, they’ll offer you an advance and a book contract before you’ve even completed the manuscript.
The proposal consists of a cover letter, synopsis, market analysis, your bio and three chapters of your book, plus supporting materials such as photos or other documentation (usually needed if it’s a memoir, biography, autobiography or other non-fiction).
This can be an overwhelming prospect, especially if you haven’t done it before, but I can make this process a lot easier and less daunting!
BRAINSTORMING
If you feel like you have a good idea and don’t know where to start, or need someone to motivate you through the writing process, I offer one-on-one mentoring sessions.
These can take place in person but also over Zoom, and are incredibly useful as a form of accountability.
I am here to champion you, challenge you and hold you accountable.
For more details, email lisamarksmedia@gmail.com.
Lisa Marks Media 