Dr Emily Grace Baulch
Anne of Green Gables, The Little Prince, and Tales from Brambly Hedge are some of the books I loved as a child. I love working on books that, hopefully, will be cherished just as much.
I believe that every story has the potential to inspire, entertain, and enlighten, and I am dedicated to helping each manuscript reach its full potential. I welcome working with neurodiverse and regional authors. As an editor, I aim to remind you to love your writing as much as when you started.
I've worked in Australia and international English-language marketplaces, including managing the global publishing catalogue for Bluey at Ludo Studio and working with Penguin Random House in Australia, the US, and the UK. I’ve taught writing and run editing courses at the University of Queensland. I have experience editing picture books, novelty books, chapter books, graphic novels, children’s nonfiction, and genre fiction.
My diverse background has allowed me to develop a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the storytelling craft. I am passionate about nurturing both established and emerging authors, helping them to refine their narratives and bring their unique voices to the forefront.
When I'm not immersed in the world of books, you might find me playing with my puppy, indulging in a matcha latte in Canberra, or dabbling in creative writing myself.
Whether you are a seasoned writer or just starting your literary journey, I am here to support you every step of the way. Let's create something magical together—stories that will be treasured for generations to come.
Qualifications:
Services
Manuscript Assessment
A manuscript assessment aims to empower you with actionable insights that can elevate your manuscript to its fullest potential. Feedback encompasses various dimensions of your work, from narrative structure and character development to thematic depth and stylistic choices.
You will receive a report on what’s working, what’s not working, and what you can consider doing next. The report highlights your strengths, such as compelling plot points or unique voice, while also pinpointing areas for improvement, such as pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, or inconsistencies in tone.
The goal is to provide you with a balanced critique that not only identifies challenges but also offers constructive solutions. Feedback is selective and uses examples to illustrate recommendations.
Manuscript assessment also includes an evaluation of your manuscript's alignment with current market trends and reader preferences. This enables you to understand how your work might resonate with its intended audience and identify any strategic adjustments that could enhance its marketability.
Developmental Editing
Developmental editing tackles structural issues, plot holes, character development, pacing, and overall coherence. It’s the foundational work that ensures your story or content is engaging and makes sense from beginning to end.
You get hands-on editing of the text with specific markups and suggestions. Feedback might suggest adding new scenes or chapters, removing redundant sections, or reworking entire passages to better convey your intended message. Development editing helps you refine your voice and style.
Feedback is more specific and comprehensive than a manuscript assessment, aiming to reshape your manuscript into a strong draft that you can then take into more detailed stages of editing.
Engaging in developmental editing is crucial for any writer who wants to produce a polished, compelling piece of work. By addressing the broader aspects first, you set the stage for more precise edits later on. Please note: developmental editing does not include copyediting and proofreading.
Coaching & Branding
Are you stuck and need a one-off chat? Do you want to drop in to discuss a specific issue? Do you need to be held accountable with an editor providing tips as you go? Teaching editing in university classrooms has taught me so many tricks to pass on! We can tailor our sessions to focus on whatever you need most, from developing compelling characters to mastering the intricacies of plot structure. Let’s work together to create an individual coaching or project management plan that works for you and gets the book of your dreams done.
I also provide brand management services, helping you work out your niche in the industry. Whether you're an emerging author or a seasoned professional, building a strong personal brand can make all the difference in reaching your target audience.
Fees
The fee varies for every manuscript and project. I use industry-standard hourly rates to create individualised quotes.
Due to the short nature of children’s books, I do not provide sample edits. If you have a longer book, I offer a sample edit of the first chapter. The sample edit will give you a clear idea of my editing style and approach, ensuring that we are a good fit for each other.
If you decide to move forward, we will establish a timeline and agree on milestones to keep the project on track.
I look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you and supporting you on your writing journey. Together, we can create something truly special.
FAQs
What’s the process?
Step one: reach out and spill the beans about your project.
Step two (for longer works only): Once we're on the same page, I'll peek at a snippet.
Step three: I provide you with a quote and send you an editorial agreement to sign before I start work.
Step four: away we go! If you want further feedback, we create a new agreement and redo the process.
How long does it take?
Generally, 4-6 weeks after signing the agreement, depending on availability.
What if I have a tight deadline?
While I strive to accommodate various timelines, it's important to discuss deadlines early on. If my schedule allows, I may be able to offer expedited services for an additional fee.
Can you help with specific genres?
Absolutely! I have experience with a wide range of genres, on top of my love for picture books, chapter books, middle grade, YA, and graphic novels.
Will you write my book for me?
Sorry, I’m not a ghostwriter. I'm more of a friendly ghost editor!
Will you help me get published?
Editing helps polish a book for publishing, but, no, I don’t help you find an agent or publisher.
What files do you accept?
I work in Word and Google Docs, with PDF for images.
Do you take international clients?
Of course! Just remember the quotes are in AUD.
What about confidentiality?
Your trust is paramount. Any material you share with me remains strictly confidential.
What's your editing style?
My approach is collaborative and supportive. I aim to enhance your voice and vision, offering constructive feedback to help your story shine while respecting your unique style.
I’m not sure what I need...
Get in touch! Feel free to provide as much detail about your writing journey and current work. We'll map out the next chapter together!
Can we have a consultation before starting?
Certainly! A consultation can help clarify your needs and ensure we're on the same page. It's a great opportunity to discuss your project in detail and establish a solid working relationship.
Remember, I'm here to support your writing journey every step of the way. Let's work together to bring your vision to life!
Get in touch
Please contact me to get in touch about any of my editing services or to ask any questions.
Fill out the form or contact me at egbaulch@gmail.com.