"I’d be thrilled to write any and all future books using the excellent coaching and editing skills of Heather Garbo. Heather immediately had a deep understanding of my vision and goals for my middle-age book Ginger Mancino, Kid Comedian. Her insightful feedback and constructive critiques helped enhance the overall narrative and structure, while preserving my own voice and style. She has great attention to detail, tone, and flow and was pivotal in my successful publishing journey. Her passion for the craft of editing and commitment to helping authors is unparalleled. Plus she has a wonderful personality to boot!"

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Wendi Aarons, author of Ginger Mancino, Kid Comedian and I’m Wearing Tunics Now

"I could not be more pleased with the coaching I receive from Heather Garbo. As a writer working on a debut novel, Heather’s feedback on my manuscript channels my work from big ideas to big impact. Her expertise in what makes a good story informs my editing while her knowledge of industry trends guides my vision. Never heavy handed, she guides me in a way that is both honest and encouraging. Every writer has her story; it takes a partner with Heather’s insights to make that story soar."

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Tami LoSasso, women’s fiction

“Heather is attentive, professional, and knowledgeable. She brings it and the experience has been great! Heather’s feedback/insights helped me craft a query letter that generates page and full manuscript asks from agents. I feel energized! I also feel more confident in making edits and the oh-so-painful acts of killing off darlings is much less angst ridden. I chose to continue to work with Heather because I appreciated her approach and the manner in which she provides feedback. She is helpful without coddling, encouraging without sugar-coating. She’s an editor/coach who inspires. but it is up to the writer to do the work. I wouldn’t steer you wrong and neither will Heather.”

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Aurrice Duke Rollings, women’s fiction writer

"Heather's experience and guidance was exactly what I needed as I started my journey as an author. Not only are her methods tried, true and impactful, but her ability to be a supportive sounding board throughout our process together made a world of difference in my confidence and my writing. We followed up our Blueprint work with Monthly Coaching and her Manuscript Evaluation, all with invaluable feedback and the gentle and professional push I needed to believe in this new path for myself. I would recommend Heather to anyone ready to take the leap. I know I couldn't have done it without her."

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Shayna Ferm, women's fiction writer currently in submission, repped by Elizabeth Copps at Confluence Literary Agency

“It's the most detailed, actionable feedback I have ever received on a long form piece of writing.
Very comprehensive. What I most enjoyed about this experience was feeling like someone
besides me was invested in my work.”

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Billie Best, upmarket fiction and memoir author,
www.billiebest.com

"After a year of unsuccessful querying, I was ready to give up. Then I connected with Heather Garbo. Had it not been for Heather’s expertise, I would have walked away from my manuscript for good. She shined a light on what my query package lacked, then helped me make the changes that would take it to the next level. With her fresh take on both my query letter and synopsis, and a list of agents she curated especially for my manuscript, I’m excited to get back in the query trenches. And with her brilliant editorial notes, I’m more in love with my manuscript than ever before."

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Suzy England, women’s fiction, author of Letters for Lucien and Perfect

"I have loved working with Heather on my book project. What sets her apart is not only her exceptional editing skills but also her ability to truly listen and respect my vision and expertise in the subject matter, while also offering her own unique insights and perspectives that I hadn’t considered. This exchange of ideas has enriched the creative process and significantly improved the overall quality of my work. Her encouraging guidance and feedback have been invaluable, and I have learned a great deal from her. I appreciate Heather not only for her professional prowess but also for her genuine passion for helping authors succeed. She is not just an editor and book coach; she is a supportive partner in the creative journey. I wholeheartedly recommend Heather to anyone seeking a dedicated and insightful editor who goes above and beyond to enhance every project she touches."

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April Moore, nonfiction narrative; author of Bobbing for Watermelons; former director, Northern Colorado Writers

"Heather’s manuscript evaluation was extremely thorough and extremely helpful! The clarity was superb, and everything was handled with kindness, honesty, and a forthright manner. What I found most helpful was just having someone in my corner, collaborating with me. I absolutely love the next steps game plan; it’s so nice to have a 1, 2, 3 of the next steps I should take. The whole experience absolutely surpassed my expectations. As I approach my manuscript revision, I feel charged up and ready to go. Heather’s very supportive and so smart. She’ll help you see your manuscript with new eyes and a keen clarity. She’s the best!”

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Charles Thompson, writer and upmarket fiction author, cgregorythompson.com

“Heather's manuscript evaluation feedback was a lightbulb moment. She put into encouraging words what I didn't know my manuscript was missing. Heather's guidance showed me something was missing and "following a formula" doesn't always manifest on the page. The manuscript evaluation surpassed my expectations and I learned things I will use in future manuscripts. Heather's gentle but firm encouragement made me feel like I played a part in unearthing certain issues with my manuscript. Trust Heather and the process!"

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Katie Crane, upmarket fiction author

”Heather’s manuscript evaluation was spot-on: robust but not overwhelming. She gave me tangible, prioritized feedback that would immediately improve the clarity of my novel. She was just the right amount encouraging and energetic. Any more and it would have felt phony. Any less and I would have felt defeated. The evaluation surpassed my expectations. I could tell she really read the manuscript and understands the industry. It felt very real and honest and manageable. Heather is warm and easy to connect with and trust but also smart and strategic.”

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Elyse Ash, upmarket fiction author, theelyseedit.substack.com

“Thoughtful, laser-focused, and smart feedback I could easily incorporate into my story. I gave
her a very messy draft, and she helped me to get clear on the story I really wanted to write. I wish I had hired Heather sooner! Heather’s method helps you get into the writing flow. With her expertise, patience, and thoughtful guidance, she can help make your book the best it can be.
I’d recommend her to anyone feeling isolated or overwhelmed in the writing process. She’ll help
you gain clarity on your story while offering encouragement and cheering you on every step of the way.”

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Katie, upmarket fiction writer