About Us

Kathryn on a boat reading with the wind in her hair

History

With 20+ years’ experience in publishing, Kathryn established WriteByYou.com in 2007 to coach authors in need of professional guidance. In response to her clients’ requests for additional support, she is pleased to announce her new, expanded list of services. (See below.)

classroom with students writing

Achievements

Developer of full-day seminars for The Smithsonian Associates programs in Washington, DC; creator of The Extreme Novelist course for The Writer’s Center and author of the book by the same name. Winner of Heart of Excellence and Bookseller’s Best Awards.

manuscript being edited with red pen

Vision

“To respect each author—while striving to make each book the best it can be.”
(Unlike other services that outsource manuscripts to anonymous freelancers, I will be the only person working on your book.)

Our Services

A Taste of Coaching

Buy just 3 hours of my time and send the first 25-30 pages of your work-in-progress for an edit, critical review, and trouble shooting consultation. Loads of information/low cost.

Chapter-by-Chapter Coaching

Create a program of on-going support, at your speed. Send in 30, 50, or more pages at a time for editing and feedback. Avoid repeated errors while honing your craft.

Developmental Editing

Unsure how to write the book of your dreams? Need help planning, revising, or polishing your novel or memoir for publication? Get the savvy advice you need!

Line Edit

Your novel, memoir, novella, or short stories are done, but… are there hidden grammar or spelling errors? Lapses in logic? Inconsistencies in plot or characterization. Line edits catch them!

Pre-Publication Revision

The key to a great book is revision. If you’ve taken your project as far as you can—hire me to revise/rewrite your draft to assure its quality.

Ghostwriting

You have an amazing story, but no time to write. Collaborating with a ghostwriter may be the answer. Confidentiality guaranteed.

The Proposal Package

Book’s done—yay! But how do you get an agent or publisher to consider it? You’ll need an effective query letter, plot synopsis, and hit list. Ask me how!

Speaking/Teaching

Need a keynote speaker for your conference? An inspiring lecturer or seminar leader for your organization or writing club? Contact me for details.

To learn more about any of my services, contact me now!

Contact Me

Projects

book cover for The Wild Princess by Mary Hart Perry
The Wild Princess by Kathryn Johnson/writing as Mary Hart Perry
book cover of The Gentleman Poet by Kathryn Johnson
The Gentleman Poet: A novel of love, danger, and Shakespeare’s The Tempest by Kathryn Johnson
book cover of The Extreme Novelist by Kathryn Johnson
The Extreme Novelist: The No-Time-To-Write Method for Drafting Your Novel in 8-Weeks by Kathryn Johnson

Testimonials

“Kathryn provides a sympathetic, reliable and intuitive guide through such diverse aspects as plot problems, writer’s block, marketing, getting an agent, even line editing.”
PH-McLean, VA

“Exactly the inspiration I needed to regain momentum for my first novel. How often do new writers get an opportunity to work directly with a successful, published author who understands the subtleties that make the written word compelling for both readers and publishers? A trusted professional who adheres to the highest ethical standards and is interested only in your success.”
G.M.Gerard, Author of The White Veil

“I met Kathryn in Washington DC. Over lunch and conversation, I was rewarded with clear and concise criticisms and suggestions that improved my manuscript. She helped me work through trouble spots and gave encouragement. Writing can be lonely – we need support.”
C. Han; Hilo, Hawaii and Sana’s, Yemen.

“Kathryn’s attention to detail has added polish to my prose. But more importantly her encouragement has given me confidence. I truly feel like a writer and I’m enjoying the journey – wherever it may lead.”
S. Wilson, Arlington, VA

“Kathryn has been able to spend one-on-one time with me, and give me the individual attention that I need at this stage of my career. I would highly recommend her to other fledgling writers.”
J.F. Bowdoin, Maine

“A gentle but precise critic, Kathryn provides professional guidance as well as constant support. Before working with her I received rejection after rejection. Now agents are taking notice and requesting material. Contacting her was the best career move I ever made.”
LA-Three Rivers, Texas

“I knew something wasn’t quite right but couldn’t put a finger on it. Kathryn zeroed in on the problem immediately and showed me how to address it. Definitely a good investment for any writing career.” KP-Newington, CT

Sample Prices

All fees are based on the time I’ll need to spend on your project. Please contact me for exact prices, based on your story’s projected word count and specific needs.

Critical Read of Manuscript

$375
Up to 75,000 words

  • Character/plot analysis

  • Detailed written report

  • Strengths/weaknesses?

  • Suggested solutions

GET IN TOUCH

Full Novel/Memoir Edit

$2,650
Up to 85,000 words

  • Track Changes notes

  • Correct all spelling/grammar

  • Tighten/improve style

  • Troubleshoot major issues

GET IN TOUCH

Ghosting/Rewrites: Fiction

$7,500 & up
Priced by length/condition of manuscript

  • Fiction, creative nonfiction and memoirs are my passion and forte. Contact Kathryn to see if your story is suitable for these special services.

GET IN TOUCH

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    Kathryn is accepting new clients. If you would like more information about her services for authors, an estimate for a consultation, developmental editing, ghosting or revising your book—or wish to book her for a speaking engagement—give a shout here!



    kathryn@kathrynjohnsonllc.com