Proposal Development/Review

Sharpen your proposal

Your book proposal is more than a formality: it’s your chance to articulate your book’s value, audience, and structure in a way that gets publishers (or agents) to pay attention. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining a draft, I can help you write a clear, compelling proposal that reflects both your ideas and your book’s potential.

Starting price: £500+, depending on level of support needed

What’s included:

Choose the level of support that fits:

For authors starting from notes or scratch. Includes:

  • Proposal outline session (via email or call)

  • Annotated feedback on two drafts

  • Help crafting key sections (e.g. Overview, Chapter Summaries, Market)

  • Line edits for tone, flow, and alignment with publishing norms

For authors with a draft in hand. Includes:

  • In-depth feedback on your full proposal (editorial report + in-text comments)

  • Suggestions for clarifying scope, audience, and positioning

  • Line edits for tone, clarity, and structure

  • A second review after revisions (optional)

Why work with me?

As a former commissioning editor at Bloomsbury Publishing, I’ve read hundreds of book proposals and commissioned hundreds of books. I know what makes a proposal land and how to help you get there without second-guessing every word. Whether you’re pitching to academic or trade publishers, I’ll bring a thoughtful, honest, and supportive eye to your work. You can check out my portfolio here.

Does this sound like you?

  • You know your book is strong, but you’re unsure how to “sell” it in a proposal

  • You’re stuck on the chapter summaries or market section

  • You’ve received vague rejections or conflicting advice

  • You’re switching fields or audiences and don’t know how to position the book

  • You struggle to summarize what your book does in one sentence

Here’s how I can help:

  • Ask strategic questions to clarify your book’s argument, structure, and audience

  • Offer publishing-informed feedback that strengthens your positioning

  • Help you write clearly, with authority and purpose

  • Give you confidence in the quality and clarity of your submission

Ready to begin?