Wendy Heard – Editor

You’ve written the book. Now what?

Maybe you’ve finished a manuscript and aren’t sure whether it’s ready—or what still needs work. Maybe you’ve queried and agents have passed, or you’ve put your work out there and haven’t gotten the reviews you’d hoped. Or maybe you’re an indie author looking for an experienced developmental editor to help make your next book as strong as it can be.

Whatever brings you here, you need someone who can look at your whole manuscript, figure out what’s working and what isn’t, understand why, and help you decide what to do about it.

That’s where I come in. I help novelists untangle complicated manuscripts and turn big-picture problems into clear, actionable revision plans. I start by understanding what you’re trying to accomplish, then dig into the manuscript to figure out what’s getting in the way—and why. From there, we can identify concrete ways forward while keeping your vision for the book at the center of the process.

I’ve published eight standalone books in multiple genres with four of the Big Five publishing houses. I know what it’s like to sit on the other side of an editorial letter—to hear that something isn’t working, wrestle with revisions, and turn editorial feedback into a stronger book. I offer you the opportunity to benefit from that experience. I’m also a career educator with a master’s degree in adult learning. My goal isn’t just to help you fix this book; it’s to help you become a better writer.

Think we might be a good fit? Request a quote and tell me a little about your book and what you’re looking for. I'm currently booking for early 2027.