Tell your story. Change the world.
“I already knew you were a phenomenal WRITER. What I did not know is that you are a thrilling editrix too. I loved your ideas so very much."
—Lidia Yuknavitch, bestselling author of The Book of Joan
Too often, writers invest untold hours on a book that will never see the light of day.
Too often, they have a story inside them that’s burning to be told but no way of knowing what it will take to actually get published.
And too often, writers of color and those seeking to tell socially engaged stories are shut down, misunderstood, or excluded from traditional creative writing spaces.
Susan knew what it was like, to feel like no one understands what you’re trying to do. As a woman of color, a first-generation American, and a writer engaged with issues like climate change, sexism, and racism, she knew what it can feel like to be shut down and misunderstood as well.
She also knew what it felt like break through with your first published book, and to connect with the readers who’ve been waiting for your work.
And she would tell you, it felt AMAZING.
As an editor and book coach, she specialized in literary and speculative fiction, and was particularly interested in the following:
- Working with authors from historically marginalized backgrounds
- Working with stories with the potential to disrupt the toxic narratives of white supremacy, patriarchy, and “capitalism at all costs” (aka, socially engaged fiction)
Testimonials
"A genius editor."
"Susan DeFreitas is a genius, the queen of the big picture."
"Susan is a genius, and as important, while she doesn't pull punches, she's kind--a calm, supportive presence on those days when it feels like all is lost. She not only saw the big picture I was after, but with searing clarity helped me get it onto the page. Plus she has a wicked sense of humor. I cannot recommend her highly enough."
“I just cannot express my appreciation for your editorial work. This book is SO much stronger for your eye and wit.”
“Your insights and comments have been amazingly helpful. I think they’ll make the book much stronger.”
"If you are in need of an independent developmental editor, I highly recommend Susan DeFreitas. Brilliant insight, and not afraid to point out areas that need work."
"Susan saved my second book (and maybe my whole series). She was able to take my first draft, sort through the mess, and find the story I really wanted to tell."
"I've got a shelf full of craft books but none has ever made me feel as empowered and ready to write as one session with Susan. She understood where I wanted to go with my novel and asked just the right questions to help me understand how to get there. I walked away inspired, excited, confident and motivated."
“I rewrote the first chapter entirely in response to your comments, and a few months later that chapter was accepted by Embark Literary Journal. This spring, after my book of stories won the Iowa Fiction Award, I was approached by Kiele Raymond of the Thompson Literary Agency and sent her the chapter. I ended up signing with her in June and am now happily trying to finish a publishable draft of the novel. Thank you again! Taking your class made all of the difference."
