EDITORIAL SERVICES

It takes so much dedication and passion to write a novel—it’s a marathon, not a sprint—and as a result I pride myself on approaching your project with the necessary enthusiasm and respect for what you’ve accomplished. It’s a joy and a privilege to be a part of someone else’s writing journey.

Ready to elevate your manuscript to the next level? I’d love to read your work! 

MANUSCRIPT CONSULTATIONS

I look forward to assisting you at any stage of the process—after finishing a rough draft, or after several revisions (when you simply need a fresh set of eyes). I'm a great fit for adult novels of all genres, with the exception of science fiction. I occasionally take on YA novels. 

  • In addition to line edits and margin notes, you’ll receive a detailed editorial letter illustrating the strengths and weaknesses of your novel, including potential narrative solutions for any issues that arise within the manuscript. 

  • After I’ve sent you the above materials, I’m also available to meet via Zoom to discuss further and answer any questions. My ultimate goal is for you to feel motivated by the editorial experience and excited to make your novel the very best version of itself.

    • PRICING: My rate—which includes a close read, line edits, and a detailed feedback letter—is set at $.04/word, per the EFA, though a sliding scale can be arranged if necessary (dependent on the level of work required). Response time typically varies from two to six weeks.

    • If you're still unsure if I'm the best match, I’m happy to take a look at your first chapter (up to 5,000 words) and provide introductory feedback for a flat fee of $250—and then based on your level of satisfaction, we can proceed from there.

QUERY SERVICES/SUBMITTING TO LITERARY AGENTS

If you have a polished manuscript and feel ready to submit to agents, I can provide detailed feedback on your query letter and opening chapters (up to 15,000 words) to ensure you’re making an excellent first impression.

  • While working at two esteemed New York literary agencies, Frances Goldin and Aragi, I read thousands of query letters and sample pages, and as a result I have a strong sense of the market and know what catches an agent’s eye.

  • PRICING: For detailed feedback on your query letter and opening chapters, I charge a flat fee of $450.

  • Response time typically varies from one to three weeks.

ABOUT ME/MY CREDENTIALS: 

I’m the author of A NOVEL OBSESSION, which was published by Dutton, an imprint of Penguin Random House, as well as translated into several languages. It was named a Good Morning America “Buzz Pick,” a “Best Summer Read” by Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and The New York Post, and was named a “Best Book of 2022” by Buzzfeed News. I've worked as an Assistant Visiting Professor of Creative Writing at Colorado College, and also taught creative writing at New York University. I've worked for two top-tier New York literary agencies, and I hold an MFA from NYU. I currently teach at The Writer's Circle, where I’ve specialized in the novel-in-progress for more than three years. 

INTERESTED IN WORKING TOGETHER?

Let me be your partner in crafting a manuscript that shines! Please email me via the CONTACT form on my website to start the conversation.


TESTIMONIALS

“In a murky, early draft, Caitlin found my novel’s beating heart. Because she is such a talented author and teacher, her editing style is uniquely insightful and compassionate. With her input, I was able to hone my voice and vision and proceed with confidence.”
—Kristin R

"Caitlin took what was perhaps an alright draft and had the astute insight to provide the kind of notes that make a book great. Her close, careful read and thoughtful feedback dug deeper into the premise of my manuscript than anyone yet had—even though it'd been read by dozens of readers. I am so grateful to her for forcing me to reconsider what was and wasn't working and would highly recommend her if you're looking to push your MS to the next level—the level at which it's truly unputdownable. Her novel was, so it's no surprise she will nudge you there, too!"
—Alyssa M

“Caitlin critiqued my rom-com manuscript. Her notes were detailed, insightful, and extremely actionable. With every issue she pointed out about my plot or structure, she offered a proposed narrative solution. Getting editorial feedback—especially on an entire novel at once—can be overwhelming, but this setup made me feel ready and motivated to jump into edits. The best part of working with Caitlin, though, is that she has a warm, approachable tone, both in her written notes and discussion. Chatting through her notes was the pep talk I needed, and I couldn't recommend her enough.”
—Laurel L

"I know firsthand it is tricky to find the right fit when looking for a developmental editor. Caitlin is amongst the best. Her background as an author and teacher, along with her experience working in a literary agency, makes her uniquely positioned to help you take your manuscript to the next level. Caitlin is honest and constructive, providing thorough, thoughtful feedback to bring out the very best in your writing. I can't recommend her enough!"
—Shaun B

"Caitlin excels at identifying what works in a manuscript as well as what needs improvement to help you understand how to create a compelling, cohesive narrative. I particularly appreciated her advice on how to identify and follow story arcs; how to build believable, relatable characters; and how to create and suspend tension throughout a novel. I absolutely loved working with Caitlin on my women's fiction manuscript, and I recommend her to anyone looking for a comprehensive and nuanced developmental editor."
— CJ  
(for a blog post CJ wrote about her experience working with me, click here.)

“As a new writer, I'm so grateful that I found Caitlin, who's as knowledgeable as she is supportive. Aside from a deep understanding of how the publishing industry works, she's full of superb advice, actionable tips, and is great at cheering you on when you need it most. Caitlin's ability to keep an open mind and ask thoughtful questions, not only improved my craft, but also strengthened the quality of my manuscript. Rather than doling out prescriptive edits, she took the time to understand my point of view, offering guidance to ensure my voice remained intact throughout the process. Her services are an invaluable asset for any writer.”
—Tarynne L

“Caitlin is an absolutely amazing teacher who challenges you in the best possible ways.  She encourages you to do a deeper exploration of your writing and inspires you to continually strengthen your work. Caitlin provides constructive and effective feedback as well as strategies to make your writing more engaging and impactful for your audience. She's a dedicated editor who sees your work through to a beautifully finished novel.”
—Illana L

“Caitlin helps you find your story and your voice. Her writing and editing expertise are invaluable!”
—Erin C

"I have participated in several writing workshops with Caitlin Barasch and have found them to be enormously helpful. She has a gift for critique that is positive and constructive while honing in on what isn't working and why. Working with Caitlin has allowed me to gain confidence as a writer and finish my novel feeling as though I'd done my best."
—Jean C