Manuscript Reviews, Mentoring, and Editing

I work with nonfiction writers at any stage of a project. You may have completed a book-length draft, would like to strengthen your narrative skills, or want to tell your story in a nontraditional form. I bring a focused, discerning eye to your writing. My feedback helps writers enliven and refine their work. A collaborative approach offers the writer’s voice its fullest expression and impact. A few of my specialties in this customized process include environmental and nature writing, memoir, essays, mentoring scientists and academics in literary nonfiction writing, and supporting older writers. Please be in touch via the contact page with your needs, wishes, or vision.

Testimonials:

 “I worked with Melanie for about a year; she is an exceptional editor. She did what I had been unable to: discover the true shape of the story that lay inside my draft manuscript. Her insight came from her ability to understand and empathize with what I was trying to achieve. It is unusual, and invaluable, to find an editor who can so clearly improve what you have written”.  

—Nigel Roberts, The Plains, Virginia - author of The Leopard and the Moon”.

Melanie was an absolute godsend. I reached out to an MFA director friend when I’d reached a point in my manuscript where I knew I needed help with structure and organization. I had all the ingredients ready, but I couldn’t quite work out how to put them all in the bowl. It needed to be just the right kind of help — someone with a literary sensibility who wouldn’t impose their own voice but find a way to liberate mine. My friend put me in touch with Melanie, and she was 1000% the right person for me. As a result of working together, I didn’t just end up with a finished manuscript I was proud of. I ended with a clearer, more confident voice and a deeper understanding of what I’m up to as a writer. I’ve gone on to sign with a terrific agent and land two book deals since our work together. I would recommend Melanie to anyone looking for a sensitive, committed and intensely intelligent reader and editor. She’s wonderful. —LJP

 Melanie Viets worked with me on my recent non-fiction book project. Melanie was very thorough in her review of my manuscript and made suggestions that led to an important reshaping of the narrative. Melanie asked poignant questions, exhibited excellent technical expertise, and offered continual encouragement throughout the project. It was a pleasure working with her and I credit Melanie with not only improving the quality of my book, but also in broadening its appeal. I highly recommend Melanie to anyone contemplating a writing project of their own.

—Donald Ryan, author of Colonel William Prescott - Heroic Commander of the Battle of Bunker Hill

 Over three years Melanie acted as my creative nonfiction teacher, my reviewer and editor—to support and encourage me along the path from first-time writer, to author of a publishable memoir. She not only taught me the craft of writing, she also provided invaluable insights into the structure of my manuscript and the importance of attending to detail. Her chapter reviews opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about what my memoir could aspire to be. I couldn’t have achieved what I did without her.

—Timothy Maker, Calais, Vermont