Fiction Technique Memo

An intensive course in advanced fiction-writing techniques, based on your work-in-progress or complete manuscript

The fiction technique memo provides in-depth coaching on plot and scene construction, character development, dialogue, point of view, and dramatic structure—illustrated throughout with detailed examples from your own manuscript. By combining in-depth lessons on core principles of fiction craft with targeted analysis of your work, it functions as a highly personalized crash course in novel writing.

More than a general guidance document, the memo delivers concrete, actionable recommendations for revision. It identifies what works, what doesn’t, and why—and shows you how to strengthen your manuscript at every level, from big-picture structure to scene execution. Writers come away with a clearer understanding of how to improve their story, writing, and characters, along with practical strategies for revision.

In addition to diagnosing craft issues, the memo often explores alternative approaches to key elements such as character arcs, narrative focus, and scene design, helping you see new possibilities for your story and make more confident creative decisions. Many authors find that it not only improves a single manuscript, but also deepens their overall command of fiction technique.

At a minimum length of 45 pages, the fiction technique memo is our most comprehensive and in-depth service for teaching novel craft. It’s ideal for writers who have strong instincts and compelling ideas but have not yet fully developed the skills needed to communicate their story in the most emotionally engaging and commercially viable way.

  • A careful, attentive read of your full manuscript, with an eye toward both big-picture structure and scene-level execution
  • A detailed, in-depth memo (minimum 45 pages) exploring the key principles of fiction craft most relevant to your work, illustrated throughout with specific examples from your manuscript
  • Clear, practical guidance on how to apply those principles in revision, including strategies for strengthening plot, character, pacing, and narrative focus
  • Exploration of alternative approaches where appropriate, helping you rethink and refine key elements of your story
  • Up to one hour of follow-up consultation, giving you the opportunity to discuss the feedback, ask questions, and brainstorm with your editor about next steps and revision strategies
  • Recommended reading, when helpful, to deepen your understanding of specific craft issues
  • Thoughtful guidance on next steps, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence in your revision process
Ross Browne
Peter Gelfan
John Robert Marlow
Julie Miller
Shannon Roberts

The price for a fiction technique memo is $2,200.

Turnaround time for fiction technique memos is typically 5 weeks.

To request a quote, make a submission, or request more information

Please visit our online welcome center, email us at admin@editorialdepartment.com, or call us at (520) 546-9992.

What happens next?

All inquiries to The Editorial Department will be personally fielded by author services director Ross Browne, who will do the following:

  • confirm receipt of your materials
  • gather any further information needed
  • do a no-cost/no-obligation preliminary review, to get a feel for which editor(s) and service(s) best fit your project’s needs
  • provide a written quote with price and turnaround time for any recommended services
  • answer any questions about recommended options or possible alternatives
  • schedule your project with the assigned editor, if you decide to move forward
  • explain and finalize the appropriate billing arrangements
  • provide a firm delivery date and keep you updated on our progress, as appropriate
  • deliver your feedback or editing to you once it’s ready
  • arrange for follow up with your editor by phone or email, once you have reviewed your feedback and/or editing
  • advise on next steps, and schedule reviews of new drafts if requested

Privacy & Confidentiality

We have utmost respect for our clients’ privacy concerns and will never sell, share, or disseminate your contact information. We will treat all materials supplied to us as confidential.

Formal nondisclosure agreements are not required but are available on request. More info is available here.

“Nobody reads a book to get to the middle.”

Mickey Spillane