My Work
Find writing samples by clicking on the images below.
Want to know more?
Click on any of the headers below for in-depth info.
Support the writers in your life by giving the gift of edits! Gift cards can be redeemed for: editorial work, coaching services, or cover the cost of admission to a workshop.
I paid $600 to a research institute and drove to Texas…The tester people came back and said, “You would be good at disaster management and writing.”
I’m available for: readings of my work, author interviews, sitting on and/or facilitating a conference panel(s), delivering a keynote speech, emceeing your literary event, school visits, or leading a workshop.
Check out my full list of workshops.
Are you ready to take the next step? An excellent edit, strong support system, or motivating workshop can make a big difference in achieving your writing goals! I want to help you succeed. But first, how can I best reach you?
I’d love to meet you in real life. Check out my upcoming events, and hopefully I’ll see you there!
You don’t have to take my word for it.
Learn more by checking out radio spots, interviews, reviews, and video.
3 Reasons Editors Love Standard Manuscript Format
Did you ever wonder why publishers & agents are so concerned about formatting? 1. It’s easy on our eyes. The double spacing, simple fonts, and wide margins minimize editor eye strain. 2. There’s room to write our notes when we edit by hand. Yes, sometimes we still print out entire manuscripts and mark them up! […]
Podcasts for days! What’s your favorite listen?
I had a great time getting book recommendations from you in response to my Best of 2018 Reads newsletter, I thought I’d pick your brains yet again. But this time I want to know what’s in your ear-balls? There’s a slight chance I may have become addicted to podcasts. I like listening while I take […]
2018 Best Reads
I read 80 books in 2018. Since my Goodreads goal was 75, that makes me pretty happy. By read, I mean all the way to “the end.” If I give up on a book it doesn’t count toward my goal. Sometimes, if I’m slogging through a book, guilting myself to get to the last page, […]
About working with me...
“Jessica has amazing editorial intuition. She not only helped me with mechanical and format issues, she gave insightful direction about plot, character POV, and general flow. She challenged me to make my manuscript better. Now I’m confident to start shopping it to agents. “
- Jim C.-Comprehensive Critique Client“Jessica’s editing instructions are insightful and clear. She said, “Move this sentence down three paragraphs.” I did, and then the story flowed effortlessly. She has an eagle eye for spotting the best place to begin a story. After I get a piece back from her, I’m inspired and can’t wait to start writing. She’s easy to work with, she welcomes my questions, and stops when my sensitive writer’s ego can’t take another suggestion. Because of her editing, my third published book is quantum leaps better than my first one.”
Dawn Downey, Author of Searching for My Heart, Essays about Love
- Dawn D.-Comprehensive Critique Client“I’m a young writer feeling lost in the publishing world. I have love for my writing and what I have created, but the process of publishing has dismayed me. Jessica’s presentation gave me reassurance, hope, and understanding.”
- Janie R.-Attendee of Paths to Traditional Publication Workshop