Rebecca Friedman

Rebecca Friedman – Editor

Literary Agent for 25 years, working closely on developmental editing, transforming promising drafts into publishable books.

Overview

I’m a literary agent and developmental editor with over 25 years of experience helping authors shape manuscripts that are both creatively strong and commercially viable. I’ve worked extensively with fiction and nonfiction writers at all stages of their careers, bringing a sharp editorial eye, deep market awareness, and a clear understanding of what publishers—and readers—are looking for. My background as an agent means I focus not only on craft, but also on positioning: strengthening structure, voice, and narrative momentum while keeping the marketplace firmly in view.

As an editor, I’m both a book doctor and a cheerleader. I offer thoughtful, constructive feedback and hands-on book coaching throughout the developmental process, from early drafts to submission-ready manuscripts. Writers I work with can expect honest guidance, practical revision strategies, and a collaborative, encouraging approach. You’ll leave the process with a stronger manuscript, a clearer revision roadmap, and renewed confidence in your project.

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs History Parenting & Families Political Science & Current Affairs
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Contemporary Romance New Adult Women's Fiction
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Apr, 2013 — Present
25+ years experience I’ve spent over two decades working closely with authors to develop, refine, and position manuscripts for publication. My work includes in-depth developmental editing, editorial strategy, and long-term book coaching, with a focus on strengthening narrative structure, character development, voice, pacing, and overall market readiness. My experience as a literary agent informs every edit: I approach manuscripts with both creative and commercial considerations in mind, helping authors understand not just how to improve the work, but why those changes matter in today’s publishing landscape.

Portfolio

Hart's Landing

Harlow, Melanie

Entangled: Amara

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Running: A Novel

Hoffman, Cara

Simon & Schuster

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Royally Ruined (Bad Boy Royals Book 2)

Flite, Nora

Montlake Romance

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Final Down: The Waiting Series Next Generation

Scott, Ginger

Little Miss Write, LLC

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
White Horse: A Novel

Erika T. Wurth

Macmillan Audio

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Fire Exit: A Novel

Talty, Morgan

Tin House

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Biology Lessons

Kantor, Melissa

Feiwel & Friends

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Salt Bones: A Novel

Givhan, Jennifer

Mulholland Books

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment

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