

Lyndsay
- Rate $50
- Response 1h

$50/hr
1st lesson free
- Creative writing
Professional Book Editor teaches you how to write a book with unique characters and amazing plotlines
- Creative writing
Lesson location
About Lyndsay
I'm a professional book editor and published author with over 10 years of experience in the publishing industry. Since 2020, I've built and run my own editorial services company, working closely with dozens of authors to bring their manuscripts to life.
My editorial work spans both fiction and non-fiction across a wide range of genres—from literary fiction and thrillers to memoir, romance, and speculative fiction. This breadth of experience means I understand how different genres work, what readers expect, and how to help you deliver a story that satisfies while still feeling fresh and uniquely yours.
Beyond manuscript editing, I've spent years delivering writing coaching and courses to students at various stages of their writing journey. I've guided complete beginners through their first chapters and helped experienced writers break through the challenges holding them back from finishing their books. There's nothing more rewarding than watching a student's confidence grow as their story takes shape on the page.
As a published author myself, I know firsthand the vulnerability, frustration, and joy of the creative process. I understand what it feels like to stare at a blank page, to wrestle with a plot that won't cooperate, and to finally find the breakthrough that makes everything click. I bring that empathy and insider understanding to every lesson.
Whether you're just starting out or you've been circling your story idea for years, I'm here to help you transform that vision into a completed manuscript you're proud of.
About the lesson
- Primary
- High School
- NCEA Level 1
- +7
levels :
Primary
High School
NCEA Level 1
NCEA Level 2
NCEA Level 3
Adult education
Undergraduate
Masters
Doctorate
Other
- English
All languages in which the lesson is available :
English
My approach is all about building your storytelling toolkit from the ground up. I teach fiction writing the way I learned it as an editor—by understanding why stories work. We'll explore the mechanics of compelling narratives: how to construct character arcs that feel inevitable yet surprising, how to structure plot so tension escalates naturally, how to write dialogue that reveals rather than explains.
I use a show-then-do method: we'll analyze excerpts from published novels to see techniques in action, then you'll practice those techniques through targeted writing exercises. Each lesson balances craft instruction with creative application. You're not just learning theory—you're actively building scenes, developing characters, and constructing your story week by week.
Expect a collaborative, encouraging environment where we celebrate what's working while strengthening what needs development. I adapt to how you learn best, whether that's visual story-mapping, talking through ideas aloud, or diving straight into drafting.
Each 60-90 minute session follows this structure:
1. Warm-up & Writing Check-in (10 min) - Quick creative writing prompt or discussion of your progress since our last session
2. Writing Craft Lesson(20-30 min) - Deep dive into one storytelling element: creating character desire and stakes, structuring scenes with conflict and change, building a subplot that enriches your main plot, controlling pacing, developing a distinctive voice, crafting powerful openings and satisfying endings, etc. We'll look at examples from published fiction to see the technique in practice
3. Hands-on Application (25-35 min) - You'll write! This might be a character backstory exercise, outlining a three-act structure for your story, drafting a pivotal scene, or brainstorming plot complications. I'll guide you through the process and provide real-time feedback
4. Review & Writing Assignment (5-10 min) - We'll discuss what you created, and you'll get a clear writing assignment to continue developing your story between sessions
The curriculum builds progressively—we start with foundational elements (character, conflict, stakes) and move toward complex techniques (subtext, theme, narrative structure). But I always tailor lessons to address your specific story's needs.
What Sets Me Apart
As a professional editor, I've seen hundreds of manuscripts at every stage of development. I know the common pitfalls that trap new writers (flat protagonists, aimless middles, unearned endings) and, I know exactly how to help you avoid them. More importantly, I know what makes stories sing—that alchemy of character, conflict, and emotional truth that keeps readers turning pages.
I don't teach from a single prescriptive formula. Every story has its own DNA, and I'll help you discover the structure and style that serve your narrative. You'll learn practical, professional-level techniques while developing your unique creative voice.
I also bring patience and encouragement. Writing a book is hard, vulnerable work. I create a supportive space where experimentation is celebrated and "mistakes" are simply part of discovering your story.
Who These Lessons Are For
These lessons are designed for fiction writers who:
- Have a story idea burning in their imagination but don't know where to start
- Have attempted writing fiction but feel lost in the middle or uncertain about structure
- Want to understand the craft behind great storytelling—not just wing it on inspiration alone
- Need accountability, guidance, and encouragement to actually finish their book
- Are ready to commit to regular writing practice between sessions
Ideal for: Adult learners at any experience level—whether you've never written fiction before or you've started three novels you couldn't finish. No MFA or previous workshops required. Perfect for aspiring novelists, short story writers, and anyone with a story demanding to be told.
Not ideal for: Writers seeking only validation without constructive guidance, those not willing to write consistently between sessions, or writers who have their story fully formed and aren't open to exploring new approaches or growing in the writing craft.
If you have characters whispering in your mind, a world that feels real but exists only in your imagination, or a plot idea you can't shake—and you're ready to transform that vision into an actual book—let's begin.
Rates
Rate
- $50
Pack prices
- 5h: $250
- 10h: $500
online
- $50/h
free lessons
The first lesson with Lyndsay will allow you to get to know each other and discuss your needs for future lessons.
- 1hr
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