How to start writing a book in 2024
As I write this at the start of May, there are 8 months left of 2024. It already sorta feels like it...
Writing a great book is more than putting the right words in the right order.
With almost a decade of editing experience, I’ve critiqued over 26 million words. As a freelance book editor and author coach, I help writers confidently take their first steps in their author journey and provide coaching for those who want to invest in their writing.
My clients range from early 20s to a lovely 83-year-old (she went viral!), tech-savvy or new to using tech, and romance novelists to business elite sharing wisdom. A few wrote their stories as a legacy to leave behind. Others worked hard to become award-winning authors, ranked #1 in their categories, and got on best sellers lists.
Some of my clients are local so we meet in person for coffee and book chat. Most are based around the world so we chat via call/video call. A few have flown me out to meet up (London, Dubai – where next?).
No matter where you are in your writing journey, or where you’re based in the world, I’d love to hear more about your story and see if we might work together.
My biggest compliment from clients is always, ‘It still completely sounds like me’. I’ve worked with entrepreneurs who want to share their expertise, fiction authors who write great novels, people struggling with their mental health who use writing as therapy, and those who have words worth sharing.
To learn more about how I can help you, get in touch. You can also check out my fiction and nonfiction portfolio from my 50+ clients, many of whom referred others to me or rebooked me for their next book. There are also testimonials on this site as well as on Google Reviews and LinkedIn testimonials.
For me, working with an author is a partnership! I’ve worked on fiction and nonfiction books across a variety of genres. All of my clients have 5-star reviews. Some have hit bestseller status, been noted in ‘Top Books for…’ listings, been in the media, or invited to speak at events.
Many think an editor’s job is just to check what you’ve written makes sense and reads okay. If there are free ‘editing’ apps out there, why pay? It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it that sells books. Well-written books that are marketed well will climb the ranks and help grow your audience.
Editing checks every word is not just necessary but it’s the best word you can use. It elevates your writing to a higher standard and looks for any opportunities to develop your book concept. If you’ve gone off track or it’s not going to resonate with your reader. Perhaps there is a plot hole or a gap you’ve missed. As a writer myself, I understand we can be too close to our own writing so having another set of eyes can catch things you may have missed.
I believe in critique and kindness when sharing editing recommendations. So there won’t be any red pen on your manuscript!
Whether you’re in need of a freelance book editor in Glasgow or in the surrounding areas, or looking for a remote editor if we’re more global neighbours then get in touch. I work with clients face-to-face and via Skype, so no matter how far away we are, we can still sit down together and chat over coffee. To get started or ask a question, get in touch.
It’s is absolutely possible and I always encourage my clients to research and learn what they can early on as it can save time and money down the line. But publishing a book has a lot of steps – writing, editing, proofreading, book cover design, formatting, pitching or self-publishing.
It’s a lot of skills and while you may be talented in a few of them, it’s always worth hiring experts for the ones you don’t have under your quill. Then you can save your valuable time for writing your next book.
I also provide author coaching sessions where I can guide you towards one goal in your author journey. Or if you are at the very start of your book idea, then get in touch about my Pen to Published Mastermind which provides you with the tools, resources, templates, and accountability to write your book.
I’ve also curated a massive list of the exact apps and resources that will save you time and can help you become published more successfully! I love helping authors define their audience and showing them how to appeal to readers.
Kirsten Rees is a delight to work with! Her energy and passion for what she does inspires me to put my best foot forward every day! I not only write but she has taught me to not be afraid to live my dreams out loud! Thank you Kirsten for our correspondence. It has changed me for the better as a Writer and a Leader in my field.
Kimberly A. Cavanagh
Publishing your very first novel is scary. But when you do it with Kirsten? Less so. She was just the person I needed to take this novel all the way from a draft to a published book. With her touch the content is now the best it can be, with my voice still very much there. 110% recommend!
Lina Wesson
I’m delighted to have had Kirsten as my editor. Her advice and tips have been a game changer for me. I’m finally excited about my book which is thanks to her editing and guidance. I would highly recommend her services. She’s professional, friendly and great at her job.
Nicki MacDonald
Finished writing your book? Started and got stuck? Or just have an idea and need professional guidance? I’d love to hear more! Fill in the contact form below and I’ll be in touch soon …
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