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Nicole Hardina Story Studio
Editorial partnership for memoir and narrative nonfiction writers
Refining memoir is my specialty.
I work with memoir and narrative nonfiction writers to help shape lived experience into clear, compelling books. Through thoughtful feedback, close reading, and ongoing support, I help writers develop structure, discover and strengthen their voices, and move their projects forward with confidence, whether they're exploring an idea, drafting a manuscript, or preparing work for publication.
I believe the world needs your book.
How I work
Editorial work is a collaborative process. I read closely, ask careful questions, and offer feedback that is both rigorous and supportive. My goal is not to overwrite or redirect a manuscript, but to help writers better understand what their material is doing and what it may still be asking for.
I work best with writers who are engaged in the process and open to revision. Together, we focus on clarity, intention, and craft, so that each draft moves closer to the book it wants to become.
Editorial focus
I work with memoir writers at various stages of the writing process, including projects that feel expansive, complex, or difficult to organize.
My editorial focus often includes:
- shaping narrative structure and pacing
- developing scenes and throughlines
- clarifying voice at the sentence and paragraph level
- organizing narratives with layered timelines
- ensuring factual clarity and internal consistency
Much of my work involves helping writers see their material more clearly, so they can make confident decisions about what belongs on the page and how it fits together.
Working together
I offer several forms of editorial support, depending on where a project is in its development. Most writers begin with an Editorial Assessment, a conversation designed to clarify next steps before committing to a service.
Writing Support
Ongoing editorial partnership for writers developing memoir, narrative nonfiction, and other book-length projects. Receive thoughtful feedback on your pages, guidance on craft and structure, and encouragement to help you maintain momentum and complete your manuscript.
Editorial Assessment
A review of a representative sample of your manuscript, followed by a conversation about its strengths, opportunities for improvement, and the type of editorial support that would be most beneficial. This is a good place to start if you're unsure what your manuscript needs next.
Manuscript Evaluation
A close read of your full manuscript, followed by a detailed editorial letter outlining its strengths, primary opportunities for revision, and recommendations for moving the project forward. This option suits writers seeking big-picture feedback before beginning their next revision.
Developmental Editing
In-depth editorial guidance on structure, pacing, narrative arc, and overall shape, with detailed feedback and revision guidance.
Line Editing
Sentence-level work focused on rhythm, clarity, and style, with attention to flow and voice across paragraphs and scenes.
Copyediting and Proofreading
Editing for clarity, consistency, grammar, punctuation, and correctness, with attention to style, continuity, and, where appropriate, verification of factual details, while preserving the author's voice.
Book Proposals and Query Materials
Editorial support in shaping proposal documents and agent queries for submission.
Self-Publishing Consultation
For writers preparing to independently publish their work. We’ll discuss publishing platforms, ISBNs, distribution options, metadata, timelines, and common pitfalls so you can make informed decisions about bringing your book into the world.
About
My editorial work is rooted in close reading, attention to craft, and deep respect for a writer's voice and intentions.
I'm especially interested in the questions that arise when real life becomes story: how to find structure, how to manage pacing, and how to decide what belongs on the page.
I'm the author of Little Washington and the forthcoming Curious and Fascinating Facts: Washington. The same curiosity and care that shaped my own books informs my editorial work. I see editing as a steady, thoughtful collaboration, focused on helping writers understand what their material is asking to become.
Curious about my approach to story? Read Starting from Anywhere, my newsletter on writing, meaning, and creative practice.
Professional affiliations: Northwest Editors Guild • American Copy Editors Society (ACES) • Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA)
Advanced certification: Poynter-ACES Editing Certificate
What clients say
I highly recommend Nicole to writers, especially memoirists. Her attention to detail, timely feedback, and gentle delivery helped me feel at ease once I started working through her revisions on my very personal story. I could tell she applied care and sensitivity to each word, and I am so grateful for the role she has played in making my manuscript better.
Nicole has been a steady, thoughtful voice of encouragement and a patient, skilled reader who helped organize and shape a sprawling memoir. She responds with lightning speed, provides feedback in multiple formats, and is unfazed by thoughtful pushback on her suggestions. Working with Nicole has been both delightful and enlightening.
Contact
If you're interested in working together, I'd love to hear more about your project.
Email Nicole at nicole@nicolehardinastorystudio.com with a brief description of where you are in the process and what kind of support you're looking for.