I’ll help you deepen and sharpen your story.
Ethos: a passion for helping authors
I love helping authors realize the full potential of their manuscripts.
The ideal time to work with me is once you’ve completed a full draft of your novel and crafted it as best you can on your own. You might find yourself wondering how it stacks up against published books. Or you might suspect that what’s on the page isn’t quite the story you intended to tell. A developmental edit can help clarify your vision for the book and speed you on the path of revision.
Affiliations
Testimonials
“Cody Sisco’s deft editorial eye was pivotal in helping me to finish my debut novel And the Train Kept Moving. His suggestions and questions were always constructive and specific, pushing me to deepen and expand the scope of my novel, while also pointing out connections I might strengthen and opportunities I should consider.”
—Michael Kiggins, author of And the Train Kept Moving (Running Wild Press 2023)
“Cody is fastidious in his attention to detail. His editorial feedback was helpful, and his insights elevated every part of my manuscript—from prose to content. I highly recommend Cody. He is absolutely one of the best editors in the industry.”
—Rebecca Dimyan, author of Waiting for Beirut (Running Wild Press 2023)
“Cody Sisco as an editor was ideal and wonderful. His guidance enabled me, sort of gave me permission to let loose with my first novel, a YA book called, Wolf-Boy.
—David Fitzpatrick, author of Wolf-Boy (Running Wild Press 2023)
He has a sure, deft touch and always reminded me of the stakes at hand. He was also unfailingly polite, kind, and understanding with the loss of an in-law’s life. I feel like I was lucky and well-taken care of. If you need a great editor, don’t hesitate and sign up Cody for your project.”
“I have worked with many editors and none compare to Cody. I am grateful for the work he has done with my stories. He is a very knowledgeable and skillful editor. His suggestions on how to enhance my characters, clarify the scenes, and develop the story are invaluable. He has made my stories flow so much better. He knows the craft of creative writing. “
—D. Steet, short story writer
Editing Services
It’s a long-term endeavor to improve your craft and for your words to find their way into the world. Making your mark requires smart, targeted investments. I’m available to help you navigate your writing career in the following ways:
| Service | Description | Deliverables | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manuscript Evaluation | An assessment of your work-in-progress, including strengths and weaknesses and marketing considerations |
| Starting at $650 USD |
| Developmental Editing | An in-depth analysis and roadmap to revisions |
| Starting at $2,200 USD |
| Line Editing | A targeted edit to improve the flow, style, and impact of language |
| Starting at $1,500 USD |
| Storytelling and Career Coaching | Tailored, one-on-one coaching plans and check-ins | Storytelling and career consultation sessions with tailored agendasStrategy, marketing, graphic design, and publicity support | Billed hourly starting at $80 USD |
How developmental editing works
My goal during a developmental editing engagement is to provide you with feedback that helps you sharpen your vision for your novel and steer you through the revision process with clear direction and confidence.
First, we’ll talk about your goals for the story, what lit your fire to write it, and what concerns you have about its execution. Then, I will read through your manuscript multiple times, making notes about the story arc, character development, important themes woven throughout, and more. I’ll provide you with an editorial letter that makes observations on the novel’s main story progression, readership considerations, strengths, and areas of focus for revision. I also include suggestions related to character, plot, setting, language, and themes. We’ll talk about the feedback and I’ll help you come up with a plan for revising the manuscript.
Following that, I’ll work with you on any major revisions you decide to undertake, such as changing the cast of characters, filling in plot holes, adjusting the pace, etc.
To inquire about development editing services, you can email me at editor [@] codysisco.com.
Examples of Career Coaching and Support
- Websites for writers, editors, artists, etc.
- Digital branding, communication, and social media strategies for authors
- Self-publishing support every step of the way
- Marketing analytics and audience development
- Collaboration and networking within literary communities
- Book launch campaign planning
What to Expect
- Click the Get Started button to provide information about your project and editing needs
- We’ll co-create the scope of services together based on needs, budget, timeline, availability, etc.
- A contract will be drafted and signed to provide clarity and confidence in our working relationship
- Invoices will be sent according to the agreed-upon schedule; fixed-fee projects will require a 50% initial deposit
- We will have an initial meeting to discuss the manuscript, your inspirations, intended impact, focus areas, concerns, etc.
- I will read through, edit, and deliver feedback as outlined in the contract scope of work
- Story and career consultations will be scheduled
- We’ll wrap up the project with you inspired and empowered to continue on the path to publication
Expertise
Literary Events and Media Production through BookSwell
www.bookswell.club
Indie Author Collaboration through Made in L.A. Writers
http://madeinlawriters.com/
WordPress Website Design
Cody was patient and knowledgeable helping us do a refresh on our website. He was able to provide great design recommendations and the finished product is just what we were hoping for.
~ Janice Kitzman, Cascade Compliance