WILDE(ST) DREAMS: EDITING and DISSERTATION COACHING
Services
What is developmental editing and what does it involve? What is line editing? How does the latter differ from plain old proofreading? How do I write a book proposal? And how can I learn to be a better writer? You will find more descriptions below.
Writing a Book Proposal
The very thought of getting your foot in the door can sometimes feel daunting, if not next to impossible. Why would one want to face rejection after rejection? But it doesn’t have to be a hopeless process even if pride has to be swallowed from time to time.
​
When I submitted my first proposal for the book that became The Routledge Guidebook to Paine’s Rights of Man, I felt more than a little intimidated. Even though
the subject of my book fell within my historical period, I had never written a full-length article on history or political science--much less a dissertation or a book. (My doctoral dissertation was in English literature after all!) But I managed to write a credible book proposal, receiving the following comments from my internal reviewers:
​
“This is a fine, clear, and compelling proposal, which promises to lead to a useful book....although there are some good books that in passing discuss Tom Paine’s Rights of Man, there is nothing quite like this proposed volume. There is a good mix of textual analysis and contextual materials. The writing is clear, and the book seems pitched at a level that should appeal to undergraduate and graduate students.”
​
“Overall, this is a much needed book and I heartily support the proposal…. the proposed book is a timely reminder of the importance of recalling the origins of ideas and how they came to be widely understood, as well placing their birth into their historical context. Furthermore, the proposed guidebook to Rights of Man is a well constructed and thoughtful analysis of the text, and does Paine’s work the justice that it needs.”
​
“This is a very good proposal. It is generally well thought out and prepared, and answers all the key questions that might be posed about such a proposal. It shows a very strong grasp of the material, and reliable intellectual judgment.”
​
The second book proposal which was sent to Manchester University Press--a book I’m currently completing--would garner even more positive responses:
​
“In its comprehensive approach to Lewis’s novel, Chiu’s proposed volume
is unmatched…Exhaustive and historically rigorous in its approach to Lewis’s novel, this
study will be a welcome addition to Manchester’s Gothic volumes. With specialist
interests in Thomas Paine, political radicalism, Ann Radcliffe and early Gothic
writing in general, there is, to my knowledge, no critic who is better placed to
write this monograph than Chiu herself.”
​
“I was convinced by this proposal from the outset. The writer sets out a clear and logical
course for what appears to be an unusually comprehensive critical and historical survey,
and also locates the central text beautifully in its (possibly, under current conditions,
underrated) centrality. This book, if commissioned, will not merely support
undergraduate and taught-postgraduate work on a novel which is more often talked
about than written upon, but will also likely prove a critical tool to reenergize the debate….I am more than happy to endorse this proposal and recommend it to the Press for
publication. The author is correct in noting that no parallel work exists,”
​
So if you’re searching for a book proposal consultant, you couldn’t find a better guide here! As someone who’s not only written successful proposals but has also read many other proposals, I can provide you with the skills to draft a proposal from start to finish. with appropriate models and suggestions.
What is Developmental Editing?
Developmental editing might be considered foundational editing as editors help writers approach the "big picture" issues of their texts. This type of editing is intended to provide assistance in drafting an overall structure of the book, whether it's arranging the order of chapters or building a compelling argument with ample, relevant evidence.
​
In some cases, developmental editing might begin not long after the writer has produced a preliminary draft for an article, book, or any substantive writing. The editor might then steer a writer to a more fitting genre if the latter is undecided between, say, publishing a self-help book or a memoir with self-help elements or between a travel guide and regional history. Developmental editing can also take place much later in the process when a writer begins to feel that structure is too limiting or the focus has shifted.
​​
At other times, developmental editing serves to guide writers toward maintaining a consistent style and tone when they've determined their target audience: after all, the general thesis and scope for a book aimed at informed lay readers is most likely going to differ from one aimed at scholarly peers--or high school students. For instance, a book on the narcissism intended for at psychoanalysts is going to differ from one for lay readers in terms of scope and style.​
​
It’s worth noting that developmental editing is not limited to books. It can be applied to individual chapters, journal articles, essays, or any other type of nonfictional prose to help writers fine tune their central argument and ensure that the evidence provided remains focused and coherent.
​​
Having collaborated with numerous writers on a broad range of titles--not to mention having spent several decades teaching literature and essay writing--I can provide clients with the developmental editing they need, whether it's helping them decide on the type of book or article they want to write, or shaping their arguments and evidence into a coherent whole. ​
​
In short, I can:
​
-
Resolve “big picture” issues from individual sections within a chapter to the entire book
-
Craft an outstanding and viable argument throughout the text with pertinent evidence
-
Find the right tone for any particular journal or target audience
-
Assist in the handling of peer review commentary
-
Eliminate redundancies
​​
I will provide a typed summary that addresses problems in the manuscript and provides suggestions for improvement. I will also make comments within the manuscript via Track Changes in Word or in Google docs as well as a separate. I also highly recommend half-hour to hour long meetings on Zoom or Google Meet.
What is Line Editing?
Line editing is generally the second phase in editing a manuscript--after a writer has decided upon a viable overall structure, argument(s), and evidence. It is exactly as its name suggests: editing a writer's prose, line by line. Unlike a developmental editor, a line editor examines and enhances prose on a more local level, particularly with a focus on paragraphs and sentences--including, but not limited to the following:
-
Eliminate repetition of words and phrases, as well as extraneous detail
-
Avoid jarring shifts in tense
-
Correct awkward shifts in verb tense and/or tone
-
Insert necessary transitions between paragraphs or sentences​
​
As your editor, I will also combine line editing with copyediting, correcting errors in grammar and syntax.
​
Not least, I also offer proofreading where I will check for misspellings, typos, and punctuation errors
Seeking a Developmental Editor, Line Editor or Writing Coach?
Since 2022, I have received outstanding recommendations from my clients:
​
Dr. Syreeta Bond DBA, PMP, Global Project Management, September 20, 2024
Dr. Chiu was my structural and writing editor and helped me create a beautiful masterpiece that has resonated with every reader. I’m so grateful we had such a personal and deep connection. Her expertise is truly amazing and inspiring and she brings out the best in everyone she works with. Thank you so much!
Lucy Chen, Executive Coach, April 18, 2024
I am writing to highly recommend Frances for her exceptional editing expertise and invaluable support in bringing my nonfiction book to publication. As a first-time author without a literacy education background, I had self-doubt, but her guidance was instrumental in refining my manuscript. Frances not only provided invaluable suggestions and insights during the revision process but also demonstrated a deep understanding of literacy and history. This enriched the narrative; and her encouragement also boosted my confidence. Her attention to detail was also very impressive, including citation checking, which ensured the highest quality of work. This was just one of the examples of her great work. Thanks to her contributions, my book has received two prestigious awards, and I cannot thank her enough for her contribution for my success.
Jonathan Fisher, MD, FACC Cardiologist & Heart-Centered Leadership Expert, May 29, 2025
It was an absolute privilege to work with Dr. Frances Chiu as the editor of “Just One Heart”, which went on to win a Silver Medal in the IBPA Book Awards for Health & Fitness. Her approach combined scholarly precision with remarkable accessibility—a rare and invaluable blend.
Frances brought a keen editorial eye to both the big picture and the smallest details. She helped me shape the book’s structure with clarity and intention, while elevating the language at every level. Her feedback was always thoughtful, direct, and grounded in deep expertise.
Beyond her skill, what stood out most was her care—for the message, for the reader, and for me as the author. I walked away from the process not only with a far better book, but with greater clarity and confidence as a writer. I recommend her wholeheartedly.
​
Wes Love, Leadership and Organizational Development, April 24, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure of working with Dr. Frances on my book Culture Catalyst, and I can say without hesitation that her editing skills are next level. She has this rare combination of razor-sharp attention to detail and a deep, genuine care for both the message and the author behind it.
Frances didn’t just edit my words—she elevated them. She brought insights that helped me tighten my writing while staying true to my voice, ensuring that every chapter delivered the impact I intended. Her feedback was thoughtful, constructive, and always came from a place of wanting the best for the book and for me as an author.
If you’re looking for someone who can catch the things you didn’t even know needed catching and who will care about your work like it’s her own, Dr. Frances is the editor you want in your corner. I’m beyond grateful for her role in bringing Culture Catalyst to life.
Sarah Manya, Writer and Content Producer, August 7, 2022
Frances is simply the best editor I have ever met! I have worked with her numerous times for various projects over several years and occasionally with very short deadlines and she has done incredible work each time. She has a very sharp eye for language and grammar with the ability to improve the writing while maintaining the author’s voice. She is friendly and responsive and her academic credentials are impeccable! I absolutely recommend working with Frances. I don’t think there is a piece of writing that would not benefit from her expertise!
​
Cheryl Mason, JD., Senior Advisor to Secretary of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, August 31, 2024
Frances was the revisions editor for my book - Dare to Relate, Leading with a Fierce Heart.
She was instrumental in advising me on the presentation of the book and how it resonated. I had all the pieces and parts and she assisted me in reworking the jigsaw puzzle that became my final written book.
Without her, I would still be lost in the appendix somewhere.
We also enjoyed brief chats on topics of interest.
She is professional, funny, and timeline conscious - all very important in book writing!
Highly recommend her!
Marnie Maton, Chief Marketing Officer, May 18, 2024
Frances made publishing my first book a reality. She was my Revisions Editor at Manuscripts Press, who took my book from a 25,000-word rough draft to a Hot New Release on Amazon. She provides constructive feedback that is supportive and ultimately improves the end product with every turn. I'm beyond grateful to have had her counsel and point of view during my publishing process.
​
Loren Rosario-Maldonado, Former Chief People Officer, April 9, 2024
It is with great enthusiasm and profound respect that I recommend Frances Chiu for any editorial endeavor, her contributions to my recent book being nothing short of transformative. Frances is not merely an editor; she is a maestro of words, a guide through the labyrinth of storytelling, and a catalyst for intellectual and creative growth.
From the onset, Frances approached the project with a cultural intelligence and sensitivity that is rare. Her ability to understand and respect the cultural nuances within my work greatly enhanced the authenticity and impact of the narrative. Her keen eye for detail, combined with a profound understanding of cultural subtleties, allowed her to provide insights that deepened the book’s resonance with a diverse readership.
Frances’s editorial skills are exemplary. Her suggestions were always insightful, elevating the clarity, flow, and coherence of the text without ever compromising my voice or vision. Her meticulous approach to editing not only polished my work but also enriched its content, making complex ideas accessible and engaging to readers.
Moreover, Frances’s commitment to excellence and her genuine investment in the success of the project were evident throughout our collaboration. Her feedback was always constructive, timely, and encouraging, fostering a creative and productive environment that was truly inspiring.
In Frances Chiu, you will find not only an editor of the highest caliber but also a passionate advocate for your work. She possesses a unique blend of cultural sensitivity, editorial expertise, and an unwavering dedication to uplifting the voices of others. I am immensely grateful for her contribution to my book and wholeheartedly recommend her services to any author seeking to make a lasting impact through their writing.
You may see these and more recommendations at my Linkedin profile: (1) Frances A. Chiu, Ph.D. | LinkedIn
Moreover, for over twenty years, I've maintained a proven track record of teaching excellence at Oxford University and The New School, both onsite and online. I am listing a few comments I’ve gotten on my course evaluations, more of which can be found on my downloadable CV:
​
"Wow--she is BRILLIANT. She engages the students and really gets them to think. She is able to pull so many different answers out of one situation and therefore makes the works diversable. She was very honest, and I really appreciate that. because a student isn't going to learn a thing when they are too comfortable."
"The instructor was absolutely wonderful. There was always feedback provided about the posts, comments, and questions we had. Also, I would like to note that everything was done timely."
​
"I have nothing but great things to say about this course. Frances Chiu is a wonderful professor. She is dedicated, erudite, and generous with every single response to a student’s post, which makes it difficult to keep up, but well worth the money."
​
Here are some comments from the Humanities department chairs:
​
“9 out of 13 students submitted evaluations. Very high quantitative scores, alongside enthusiastic students about Chiu’s dedication, encouragement, concern for student learning and her mastery of both the literature and its historical and political contexts. Prof. Chiu commented copiously–even after her father died.” (2019)
​
“Overall students have great respect for Professor Chiu–both in her capacity to teach in dynamic cross-disciplinary ways and her communication of her extensive knowledge. They also repeatedly praise her for her responsiveness and presence in the online format–something that is not always easy to provide….Professor Chiu maintains a publication record and research agenda equivalent to that of a tenured/tenure-track faculty member. She also maintains a clear professional presence in her field.” (2022)
​
Not least, my experience in writing assessment includes ten years of evaluating Graduate Record Examination essays for Educational Testing Services as well as California state writing tests for high school juniors.
I do not subscribe to the elitist notion that good writers are born, not made. Practice makes progress as training and attention can make all the difference! I will coach you--or your child--to become a savvier and more effective writer.