A typewriter, book, and glasses on a desk

Hi, I’m Jackie—

I’m a developmental editor and book coach for fiction writers

…and I’m here to give you honest, actionable feedback on your story

I’ve helped hundreds of gifted writers,

just like you,

work toward their writing goals,

take their stories to the next level,

and polish their prose.

Writers who needed one-on-one guidance, support, and accountability.
Writers who wanted to expand their understanding of the craft to improve their skills.
Writers who benefited from honest feedback.
Writers who knew they had an important story to share with the world but were unsure about the next steps.

I am a seasoned developmental editor, book coach and workshop leader providing guidance, inspiration, feedback, and accountability for dedicated fiction writers.

Why I Do It…

Fellow Writer

I understand the ups and downs of the creative life. We writers have a strong urge to get our stories on paper, but it can be scary to send them out into the world. Then there is the loneliness of staring at your computer screen day after day. I’m familiar with the frustration of rejection letters (or an empty inbox!). I also know how exciting it is to receive an acceptance message! Writing a novel is hard work, but it’s also wonderfully gratifying. You don’t have take this journey alone.

Publishing Industry Professional

With 20 years of experience at Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster, I have worked with writers of all stripes—from those taking on their first story to New York Times bestselling authors. I’m here to help you make your novel the best it can be!

My Philosophy

⇒ You are a writer 24/7, not just when you sit down at the computer to write.

⇒ The power of observation and curiosity are your best tools. My feedback is geared toward helping you use these tools with intention to move through the world as a writer.

⇒ I am here to create a safe and brave space for you to try new things. I believe in encouragement instead of mandates and judgments.

⇒ I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. My editing and coaching services are tailored to you.

⇒ You need honest, actionable feedback so your next steps are clear.

⇒ My goal is to strengthen your work while remaining true to your vision.

My Background

For nearly twenty years, I worked at Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster in the young readers divisions of both houses. Before coming to book publishing, I was the editor-in-chief of a monthly trade journal.

I served as editor for my first book, The Subway Chronicles: Scenes from Life in New York(Plume), which contains 27 essays about the New York City subway system by writers such as Jonathan Lethem, Colson Whitehead, Calvin Trillin, and Francine Prose. The collection received print reviews nationally, and I appeared on a variety of broadcast media outlets such as CBS Morning News, NY1, and NPR.

My short fiction has been published in the literary journals Valparaiso Fiction Review, The Cortland Review, and The Macguffin. My essays and other nonfiction writing have appeared in Preservation Online, Prick of the Spindle, Narrative.ly, and History-Magazine, among others. I hold an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia State University.

I teach creative writing at the The Loft Literary Center, WritingWorkshops.com, and GrubStreet.

Think we'd make a good team?