When you need feedback before you begin or guidance while you’re in the writing process.
If you need feedback on an academic or nonfiction writing project—such as a book manuscript, a journal article, or a long-form report—that goes beyond the scope of editing a draft you’ve already written, then book coaching might be right for you. Coaching is designed to support writers at every stage of the process, from the very beginning of an idea to the final stages of revising a complete manuscript.
Our coaches work with academics, nonfiction authors, and journalists who are developing book projects that require both structure and substance. We’ll take the time to understand your goals, your audience, and the challenges you’re facing. Whether you’re outlining chapters, drafting early sections, or shaping an argument for clarity, book coaching for nonfiction authors provides individualized feedback to keep your project moving forward.
Academic book coaching is particularly helpful when you’re adapting a dissertation into a book or preparing a scholarly manuscript for a university press. For journalists working on books, coaching can provide guidance on how to expand reporting into a long-form narrative. And for general nonfiction writers, it’s a way to develop your voice, refine your ideas, and ensure your project is coherent and compelling.
Coaching is not just about pointing out problems—it’s about collaboration. A coach can help you overcome blocks, set realistic goals, and create a sustainable writing process. With regular feedback and strategic guidance, you’ll build momentum and confidence.
In short, nonfiction book coaching helps you bridge the gap between inspiration and publication. By pairing accountability with expert support, we help you transform a complex writing project into a finished manuscript that’s ready for editing, submission, or publication.
Coaches can help you with:
Strategizing
Shaping your manuscript as a whole, including developing a thesis/argument and the storyline of your book or article
Developing your thinking
Developing your thinking around the framing of your topic and chapters
Crafting your research
Crafting your research into digestible and engaging sections or chapters
Writing goals and planning
Formulating reachable writing goals and planning your writing schedule
General feedback
Providing general feedback on your writing and outline as you develop your manuscript
Peer-review
Handling the peer-review and revision process
Accountability and moral support
Providing accountability and moral support throughout the writing process
Book Coaching Services
How much does book coaching cost?
Book coaching is tailored to each writer, so costs depend on how many sessions you’ll need and how long you’d like to work with a coach. Some authors benefit from just a few targeted sessions to refine their ideas, while others choose ongoing support throughout the drafting process. We offer flexible coaching packages so you can select the level of guidance that fits your project, timeline, and budget. Whether you’re looking for short-term feedback or a long-term partnership, you’ll find an option that meets your needs.
One session
$225
Six sessions
$1,215
Twelve sessions
$2,430
What does book coaching include?
Coaching sessions are tailored to your individual needs; a brief introductory call will help you get to know the coach, explain what you’re looking for, and determine whether you’re a good fit.
Each session includes up to one hour of reading/research (e.g., reading a book chapter or manuscript); a recorded, 60-minute Zoom session with a coach; and a brief written report that outlines what you discussed and next steps. You can speak as long as you like on the call, but you will be charged at a rate of $75/hour, assessed in 15-minute increments above 60 minutes.
If extra homework is required for the coach, this is also charged at a rate of $75/hour. (For reference, reading rates are approx. 10–15k words per hour.) Editing services, including developmental editing, are charged separately.
When should you get a book coach?
While book coaching is similar to developmental editing in that both focus on the big picture of your manuscript, there’s one key difference: developmental editing requires a completed draft. Coaching, on the other hand, is most helpful earlier in the writing process—when you are still shaping your ideas, structuring chapters, or working through writing blocks.
This service is especially valuable for academics, nonfiction authors, and journalists who need strategic feedback before a draft is finished. If you’re seeking guidance that goes beyond what a traditional manuscript edit can provide, book coaching offers the flexible, personalized support to keep your project moving forward.
What’s the turnaround for a book coaching project?
While some questions can be addressed in a single meeting, most authors find that coaching works best over time. A single session can provide clarity on a specific issue, but lasting progress usually comes from ongoing support. That’s why we offer 6-session and 12-session packages—flexible options designed to fit the scale of your project and your goals.
For shorter works or targeted feedback, a 6-session package may be all you need. For book-length manuscripts or more complex writing challenges, 12 sessions give you the space to explore ideas, build momentum, and develop your manuscript with steady guidance.
Sample
Sample Coaching Report
While we cannot schedule a full sample coaching session, you will be able to meet the coach beforehand to see if you’re a good fit. After each meeting, we’ll provide you with a coaching report that summarizes what you discussed and next steps.
An early-career academic was developing a book manuscript from her dissertation research and needed assistance from a book coach as she developed a new direction for her first book’s thesis.
An architecture professor with a focus on professional practice needed coaching and developmental editing to prepare her research for publication and conference presentations. Flatpage’s editor helped her present her ideas and strengthen the presentation of her scholarly arguments.
