Countdown to #Christmas, Hanukkah, and the new year: Expert critiques and book coaching make great #gifts for the writers you know or the #writer you are. #writing

If you are doing your holiday shopping – or brainstorming ideas for your own wish list – you can give or ask for services rather than objects! For example, an expert critique or book coaching session would make a great gift for a struggling writer you know, or for yourself if you are that struggling writer.

Let an expert storyteller and editor help turn your vision into reality! 

I am the author of over 130 books, including fiction and nonfiction for adults, teens, and children, with 30 years of experience in the writing and publishing industry. I love helping other writers reach their potential.

SERVICES

Developmental Editing: Developmental critiques help writers hone their craft, excel as storytellers, and reach their writing goals. As a Developmental Editor, I look at the big picture: does the plot work, are the characters interesting and believable, is the pacing strong, is the language vivid and enjoyable? Get feedback on your manuscript, synopsis, outline, or query letter. $3 per page for novels. $60 for picture books or query letters. 

Contact me by Dec 20, 2025 for a discount on a critique in January!

Contact me to arrange a critique, for an example of editorial feedback, or to see more references from clients.

Book Coaching: If you have an idea or rough draft but aren’t sure of the next steps, I can coach you through the creation of a project from concept to finished manuscript. $45 per hour.

Project Coaching: Ready to publish? I’ll guide you through the process from manuscript to querying publishers (including feedback on your query letter) or independently publishing a book. This can include direction in hiring a cover artist, book designer, etc., and help with the keywords and categories that will help readers find your work. $45 per hour.

Clients say: “Thank you! I think you were right on. You were very thorough, and I would recommend you to anyone!” – Amy, Texas

“I learned a hell of a lot with you. Your comments were always very constructive and you helped me to see the big picture.” – Marion, UK

“Thank you so much for an amazing critique.  The good part is that I totally understand your comments. I appreciate your professional comments and quick turn-around.” – Charlotte, Texas

“Your critique is so clear and concise, and easy to receive. In fact, it's as though you scratched an itch I couldn't reach. Nearly everything you said I could see, and on an intuitive level, I think I already knew. Thanks so much for your insights on those areas of my writing that need so much more work, but also for the positive feedback. (I needed to hear that.) I truly appreciate your critique and style of editing. I hope you would be willing to work with me on future projects.” – Victoria L.

“Your big picture notes were invaluable, and it was also wonderful to discover that your internal comments served as road signs as I reworked each scene. Thank you so much for all of your input.” – Ann, Arizona

“I have already learned so much from your comments. I appreciate your grounded and clear communication about my writing. You have a way of just cutting through it all and giving me some great food for thought. In addition, I am grateful [for your] words of encouragement. This means so much, particularly since I am so new to this world.” Joey, Michigan

Contact Chris 

See the page “Expert Editor, Writer for Hire, and Book Coach” for more info.