I’ve started making this service available due to the overwhelming number of requests for publishing advice I’ve been humbled to receive on a daily basis. I truly love being able to assist aspiring authors who are interested in publishing a book. That being said, one of the biggest things I value is my time! There’s a LOT that goes into bringing a book into the world; therefore, sharing my insight isn’t as quick and simple as it would seem.
That’s why I have started offering paid consultations, where I can take the time to answer your questions and provide tailored advice on how to get published at a major publisher—including my insight into the industry. Feel free to contact me to schedule a consultation.
I love helping fellow authors reach their literary dreams and look forward to assisting to the best of my ability!
The book world is in my blood: I’m a novelist and book publishing professional with a lifelong passion for the art of writing and the business of publishing. Growing up, my favorite authors were my role models. I was intrigued by their ability to transform a blank page into narrative. Their words made impact! I wanted to be part of that world when I grew up. No matter how challenging. So, I started studying the industry at age 8 and never looked back! I signed my first book deal at age 18 after a decade of careful research, crushing rejection, and lots of trial and error! During childhood, I basically taught myself the majority of my current knowledge base, and there’s always more to learn each day. I’ve been in your shoes, and now I can be the mentor I wish I had!
I work in the industry every day: I’m currently a freelance editor for the Big 5 NYC publishers, but I’ve held various roles in a variety of publishing types (scholarly, medical, and trade) and departments (agenting, acquiring editorial, production editorial, production design, cover design, manufacturing, publicity, marketing, and subsidiary rights). I’ve been fortunate to work in all stages of bringing a book into the world!
I love assisting fellow writers: I’m frequently invited to teach “narrative writing” for students and “publishing 101” for adults. To date, I have spoken to over 2,500 attendees through nearly 50 presentations, coaching countless aspiring authors along the way. I can’t wait to help bring your book baby into the world!
You definitely can—and should!—do preliminary research before our meeting. But with countless resources at your fingertips, and it can be a time-consuming challenge to sift helpful advice from the digital clutter. I take the legwork and guesswork out of your info search! Plus, a one-on-one real-time conversation provides the opportunity to answer specific questions, dive into detail on some topics while summarizing others, and ultimately tailor the conversation to your specific needs/goals.
Yes. While I’ve previously connected with aspiring authors on a volunteer basis, I now have a policy to fairly compensate me for my time and knowledge.
I’m passionate about helping fellow writers succeed, which is why, in the past, I've always accepted invitations to chat and let them “pick my brain.” While it may seem that me doling out advice, insight, and coaching is easy and seamless, it actually takes a lot of thought and energy to provide quality feedback. Whether I’m coaching an aspiring author one-on-one or speaking on a stage, I am fully present and giving everything I have to that interaction. By saving that energy for paying clients and speaking engagements, I ensure I’m able to fully show up and do my best work.
Up to you! Most writers I’ve talked with request two sessions: once early in the drafting stage to get their bearings and learn the basics of navigating the industry. (Some of my advice covers dos and don’ts during the writing process to put your best foot forward and increase your odds of attracting the interest of the major publishers.) Then, when their manuscript is polished and they begin the submission stage, they find it helpful to meet again and dive deeper into specifics and questions that arise during that stage. Again, it’s totally up to you and what works best for your process! Bringing a book baby into the world is a long process and labor of love (not for the faint of heart!), so I’m happy to give pointers and direction on every step of the way!
Unfortunately, my services no longer include manuscript critiques.
Most jobs are found through networking, right? As the saying goes, it’s all about who you know. Unfortunately, this is one industry where that is not always the case.
This is probably the most frequent question I receive, as most writers assume that just because someone works in publishing, they have an “in” that can be leveraged in order to network your way into a book deal. When publishing professionals hear this question, it signals that the aspiring author lacks a fundamental understanding of the industry. Attempting to circumvent the standard publishing routes, thinking you have a clever shortcut, will not only result in no book deal, but it will also make the wrong impression at best, potentially burning bridges at worst. You’re not the first person who’s tried this, and you definitely won’t be the last! That said, there are some exceptions to this rule, but if you have to ask if you’re the exception, then you probably aren’t.
All that to say: Sorry, but I cannot provide referrals to agents or publishers, nor can I submit your work to them or manage that process. I can, however, advise you on the process to approach them the right way, armed with a polished manuscript and your best foot forward.
I’m often asked about:
. . . just to name a few!
We’ll likely cover these topics and more, along with anything else you would like specific detail on about the process. There’s many directions the discussion could go, so when we start chatting, I’ll tailor it to what’s relevant to your needs/goals!
“Thank you again not only for your time but sharing your knowledge of writing and publishing. You certainly have a gift with words, not only in writing but in your manner of speech and relating to others. Your discussion flowed, simply but to the point. The facts and information you touched on were inspirational and motivational. You sure have confidence and commitment in helping others. You gave me many options and food for thought. I’m so grateful our paths crossed in this chance meeting just when I needed advice from someone like you. I was ready to give it all up but you gave me encouragement to try something. I truly appreciate the support you’ve given me today. Thank you, again.”
—Nancy A. Jaeger (May 2020)
“Sarah gave me invaluable insight into establishing a writing career; her professional experience on both sides of the industry gives her a unique understanding of the tools and obstacles authors face. Prior to speaking with Sarah, I had spoken with some local novelists and surveyed Google for how to navigate the publishing industry. The information I gathered was conflicting and often discouraging. I arranged an appointment with her so I could gain clarity about traditional publishing vs self-publishing, maintaining creative control, and other specific concerns. She was able to provide me with thorough answers, as well as realistic and reliable advice that cannot be found on Internet forums. She stays up to date about industry changes, and knows all ins and outs of book publishing and marketing in our modern world. If you wish to have a solid understanding of the writing and publishing industry, don’t search the Internet—talk to Sarah!”
—Isabella Brodzinski (April 2021)
“Sarah entered my life at a huge transition-point when I was more motivated than ever to publish, but had no idea how to leap into that process. Not only did she offer insightful and constructive feedback on my writing that would help guide its final polishing for distribution, but she also gave me an in-depth roadmap of the initial stages of publishing. She essentially handed me the first few rungs that were missing on what still seems a pretty long ladder to me, but at least I’m able to climb it now. As a writer herself, I feel like Sarah was also mindful of the ‘audience’ for her feedback, being sure to offer tips that were helpful, but would not crush this aspiring author’s spirit in the slightest. She was empowering. I look forward to eventually sending her a copy of my first book as a token of thanks for helping to get me there.”
—Sarah Graybill (April 2021)
“Sarah is an incredibly positive and kind soul who significantly helped me out in learning more about what it takes to publish a book. I walked into our consultation not knowing any background information on what I would need to do, and I walked out feeling more confident in my abilities and with so much knowledge on what to do next. Sarah is so encouraging and supportive, and she was the first outside person who took a glance at my book and really made me feel like I would be able to accomplish my goals. Her motivation helped me a lot, and I am very grateful that I got to meet her and connect with someone who is as passionate about writing and books as I am!”
—Autumn Palmer (August 2021)
“Working with Sarah was phenomenal! She is knowledgeable, passionate, and really personalized the information for me and my needs. She gave thorough feedback on my query letter, gave guidance on next steps for publishing, and even gave me more information on the right ways to approach an agent. If you’d like to get on the right track for book publishing, I would highly recommend setting up a call with Sarah!”
—Maison Ethan Turner (February 2023)
“I had the pleasure of working with Sarah in order to put my best foot forward in the publishing realm. Sarah has a wealth of knowledge and personal experience with how best to bring a new book into the world. I appreciate how friendly and personable she was as well as her attention to detail along the way. I am looking forward to working with her again towards the final stages of the writing process. Don’t miss out on this amazing talent!”
—Megan Phillips (September 2023)