Image of Alyssa Matesic - developmental book editor - throwing pages in the air

Ready for a
stronger story?

Please submit all collaboration inquiries through the form below.

Before you click the “submit” button, please review my services and the list of genres I edit to ensure we’re a good fit.

You can also check out the FAQ section below if you have any questions.

If you have an outstanding question unrelated to new collaborations, you can reach me at hello@alyssamatesic.com.

FAQs

Got a burning question?
Let’s see if I can answer it for you…

  • For Manuscript Makeovers and Editorial Assessments, I am usually booked out 2-4 months in advance. My query services can typically be booked with a few weeks’ notice.

    But our collaboration really starts from the moment you complete the application form.

    Once you’ve booked in, I’ll give you all the guidance you need to prepare for your project. I deeply value my 1:1 client relationships, and I promise my unique blend of industry experience and editorial insight will be a transformational experience like none other. Good things take time and I can assure you it will be worth the wait!

  • I believe in the transformative power of a strong editor-author match and do my best to ensure we are a perfect fit before we decide to collaborate. In fact, if you reach out and I don’t think we’d be a match made in heaven, I’ll be sure to let you know.

    The genres I specialize in are:

    • Thrillers, mystery, and suspense

    • Contemporary women’s fiction

    • Historical fiction

    • Literary fiction

    • Memoir

    • Anything that can be devoured in one sitting!

    Not writing in one of these genres? No problem! I still may be able to help, so please reach out.

    Please note that I do not offer line editing, copyediting, or proofreading services.

    Read more about my editorial approach here to discover if we’d be a perfect match.

  • If I told you that in less than a year, you could have a story that you’re proud to launch into the world – and has potentially piqued a literary agent’s interest – what price would you put on that?

    My packages really do offer so much more than just a one-and-done editing service. When you work with me, you’ll get my industry expertise, an actionable roadmap to strengthen your story, and — most importantly — a supportive, nurturing experience that will boost your confidence and give you that blissful time and focus to help you bring your publishing dreams to life.

    My services get results…

    Take a look at the testimonials below to see the value and results my clients have experienced from working with me.

    I also offer an interest-free payment plan to spread the cost across multiple payments, so you don’t have to worry about paying the full amount upfront.

  • Please review my services page for a detailed description of each offering, and see the chart below.

  • No two clients are the same. I will tailor each package to your unique needs. Because of this, timelines can vary. Once you submit the application form above, I will get back to you with a customized quote and proposed timeframe.

  • Rereading and/or editing the manuscript again would be considered another collaboration and priced accordingly. That said, I will be available to support however I can during the revision process and my door will remain open—we can talk through any questions you have about my feedback or even brainstorm ideas.

    If you are interested in a transformative, comprehensive editing package that includes two full rounds of structural edits, check out my Manuscript Makeover service.

  • While I cannot directly introduce my clients to literary agents, rest assured that I will do everything in my power to help you put your best foot forward when querying. I offer reviews of your query letter, synopsis, and sample pages, as well.

  • Unfortunately, due to the demand on my schedule, I am only able to read clients’ manuscripts. I recommend joining a writing group to find beta readers who are potentially willing to read your book and offer feedback for free. Also check out my free writing resources and sign up to receive my free Story Self-Assessment!

  • If you are planning to query literary agents and pursue traditional publishing, it’s not a hard requirement that you first work with a professional editor. That said, literary agents are much more likely to respond positively to a polished, well-crafted, effective story — because that will increase their chances of being able to sell it to a publishing house. Because the traditional book publishing industry is highly competitive, I work with many authors as they undergo the querying journey to ensure they are putting their best foot forward when approaching agents and positioning their project for success.

    If you are planning to self-publish, it is strongly encouraged to hire a team of editors, so that the final product is on par with books produced by publishing houses with dedicated editorial staff. In addition to developmental editing, you will want to invest in copyediting and proofreading prior to publication.

  • It all starts by filling out the application form above! Tell me all the juicy details about your project and I’ll get back to you within three to five business days.

    I only work with a limited number of clients to ensure I provide the best care and attention to each project, so don't wait too long before submitting your interest!

 CLIENT

SUCCESS

STORIES

Working with Alyssa was easy. I presented her with a quandary wrapped in a conundrum, and she cut right to the heart of the major issue. She examined the manuscript from several perspectives and guided me through the pros and cons of each.

Spot on in her notes, Alyssa’s responses were thoughtful, useful, and most importantly, honest. Alyssa made me feel that this is all worth the effort. I would highly recommend collaborating with her.

— SUSAN SIEGFRIED, AUTHOR OF THE POMEGRANATE