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Nancy Bechel, Fiction Editor & Book Coach
With a conversational style and detailed insights, I help fiction writers connect with the hearts of their stories through editing and/or book coaching.
Editing is the hands-on, in depth work that hones your manuscript into the gem it can be. I offer both developmental (big picture) and line (word by word) editing, which can be on its own or paired with book coaching, if you so choose. You’ll get professional, detailed feedback, as well as one free follow-up video call to discuss any questions you might have.
As a writer myself, I know how overwhelming it can be to work through an edit, and having someone accompany you through the process can be a game-changer. That’s why I also offer book coaching.
As a book coach, I’m your personal cheerleader, editor-in-your-pocket, and prayer warrior. Book coaching can be helpful at any stage of writing, whether you’re just starting with a new idea or revising a “finished” manuscript for the umpteenth time. We’ll meet on a regular basis for a set amount of time, and together we’ll puzzle out your stuck places, brainstorm for missing pieces, work out the kinks, strengthen what needs an extra boost, and bring out what makes your story shine. And on those days when you really need someone to tell you that the battle is worth it in the end, I’ll help you remember what you’re fighting for.
Not sure you’re ready for book coaching, but really need some help on a particular story problem? I offer Story-Storming! It’s a one-shot video call that may or may not include reading your actual material, but it’s a great way to get a bit of help without a larger commitment.
I work with fiction authors, and particularly enjoy stories that are filled with fantasy, adventure, mystery, humor, and romance. I have a soft spot for YA (readers age 12-18), which is primarily what I write, but also work with books intended for adult audiences. I do not read non-fiction, hard sci-fi, horror, grimdark, or erotica, and would not be a good fit for those genres.
Learn more about me and my services at Whence the Adventure: https://www.whencetheadventure.com/
(Active members of the Guild receive discounts on editing.)
Latest posts by Nancy Bechel at Whence the Adventure (see all)
About the Member
Name
Nancy Bechel
Tagline
Short bio
Nancy is an Assistant Editor at Chrism Press, and holds BAs in Theology and Youth Ministry from Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. She was a contributing writer for the Seventh Grade edition of The Augustine Institute’s Word of Life catechetical and teacher manuals, and is a reviewer at CatholicReads.com. After spending over a decade serving as a youth minister and middle school teacher, her love of story led Nancy to editing and book coaching. She brings her years of experience with relational ministry—and a keen story sense—into her interactions with authors, and enjoys accompanying them as they grow in both craft and confidence. Nancy believes in the power of truth to transform and inspire, and is passionate about helping stories become the best they can be. She also believes that chocolate and bacon are their own food groups, and that everything tastes better when eaten with chopsticks.
Website
Skills
Skills summary
- Relational Style - In-Depth Story Analysis - Brainstorming and Problem-Solving - Attention to Detail - Critical Thinking - BA in Catholic Theology - 10+ Years of experience teaching the Catholic faith to youth and adults - Can approach stories through the lenses of truth, beauty, and goodness. Whether we are writing something sweet and cozy or deep and hard-hitting, it is always important to ask ourselves what the story is saying, and whether or not what it's saying is true (as opposed to merely factual). Especially in fantasy, that can be tricky. But also a lot of fun! I can help navigate those nuances.
Available for
- Fiction - adults - books
- Fiction - adults - stories
- Developmental editor - adults - fiction
- Book coach
Link to portfolio
Endorsements
"I have worked with a lot of editors, and Nancy is hands-down the best I have ever found. I never want to move forward with a book before Nancy has seen it. Highly recommended." - Corinna Turner, Carnegie Medal-nominated author of the I Am Margaret series and other titles "Without Nancy's insightful critiques and enthusiastic encouragement, I'm not sure I'd ever finish a manuscript! She's an invaluable partner in my writing life." - Rebecca W. Martin, author of Love in the Eternal City: A Swiss Guard Romance "Working with Nancy was delightful. It's obvious that she cares, not only about the authors she works with, but about the characters and plots she's helping to form. I was especially impressed with how she handled what could have been negative feedback in a positive and encouraging way. She brought a big worldbuilding problem to my attention in a way that made it clear that she wanted to help me create the best version of the story possible, and that's exactly what happened." - S.R. Crickard, author of Misshelved Magic "Nancy has not only given me invaluable insight into my characters and plot, she has been my biggest advocate and cheerleader, helping me remember the purpose and significance of my story when I lose my way. Her talent for crafting a story and turning the whole process into an adventure is truly remarkable. I can’t thank her enough for accompanying me and keeping me focused on the ultimate goal of glorifying God in my writing." - Margaret Berkovsky, member of the Catholic Writers Guild "Nancy is a gifted storyteller and compassionate author's advocate. I received deep insight into not only my protagonist, but the pieces of myself that were ready to be shared with the world through the story I'm writing. Attentive to the 'why' behind every character choice, Nancy can gracefully guide any writer through the inevitable misty moments one will encounter." - Lindsey Bruno, Creative Director at Catholic Stories for Children
Hiring information
Important information
Schedule a FREE 30 minute Query Call to find out if I would be a good fit for you and your project. Join me for a half hour video call to discuss your project, give you the chance to ask questions, and begin to discern whether or not we would work well together, and what kind of accompaniment best suits your needs. Claim your spot on my website today! *Please note, holding a Query Call does not guarantee that I will be able to work with any particular person, and I reserve the right to refuse a project for any reason. Likewise, it does not create a coach or editor-client relationship. Neither party is obligated to pursue further interactions.
Available for
Part time
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