Hi, there! I’m glad you’re here.
I’m a USA Today bestselling author, former associate literary agent, and publishing professional with more than two decades of experience in storytelling, structure, and editorial clarity. I’ve evaluated manuscripts from the agent side of the desk, published novels in both traditional and independent spaces, and spent the last decade writing fiction full-time.
I write under both Alexa Padgett and J.J. Cagney, and my work has received multiple awards and industry recognition. I bring both editorial expertise and a working novelist’s perspective to every manuscript I review.
I’ve seen firsthand what makes a story resonate with readers — and what keeps agents, editors, and audiences turning pages. My goal is to help you strengthen your manuscript while preserving your voice and vision.
I take on a limited number of projects each month so I can give each writer thoughtful, individualized attention.
This service is a professional, craft-aware beta read designed to give you reader-focused insight into your story’s strengths and areas that may need clarification or strengthening.
I read as both an experienced novelist and publishing professional, offering thoughtful big-picture feedback while staying at the story level rather than performing a deep structural overhaul.
You’ll receive clear impressions, patterns I notice, and practical suggestions to guide your next round of revisions.
Includes:
This service does not include:
Sentence-level editing, line editing, or scene-by-scene structural analysis.
Turnaround Time:
Typically 3–4 weeks, depending on manuscript length and schedule.
Rates:
Up to 40,000 words — $300
40,000–70,000 words — $450
70,000–90,000 words — $600
Ideal for writers seeking professional reader insight before revising, querying, or self-publishing.
I occasionally take on a small number of full developmental editing projects when a manuscript is a strong fit. These are more in-depth, hands-on edits and are priced accordingly. If I believe your manuscript would benefit from this level of support, I’ll let you know.
A manuscript critique is a deeper level of feedback for writers who want strong structural and craft guidance but don’t need a full developmental edit.
Here we dig into how the story is built — plot structure, character motivation, stakes, pacing, and emotional arcs — while keeping most of the feedback in a detailed editorial letter rather than extensive in-manuscript markup.
Includes:
Turnaround Time:
Typically 4–5 weeks.
Rates:
Up to 40,000 words — $900
40,000–70,000 words — $1,100
70,000–90,000 words — $1,300
Best for writers preparing for significant revision who want expert direction on strengthening the foundation of their story.
Developmental editing is a high-touch, intensive service for manuscripts that need substantial structural work and detailed guidance at both the story and scene level.
This is collaborative, immersive story development. We examine how each major element of the manuscript functions and how to strengthen it for maximum clarity, momentum, and emotional impact.
Includes:
Rate: $0.035 per word
(Example: 80,000 words = $2,800)
Turnaround Time:
Usually 5–7 weeks depending on length and schedule.
I accept only a small number of developmental editing projects each year based on fit and availability.
Please note: Developmental edits are significantly more time-intensive than beta reads or critiques, and the higher level of involvement is reflected in the cost.
Some writers don’t just need feedback — they need partnership, accountability, and expert guidance as they draft or revise.
With more than a decade as a full-time novelist and experience evaluating manuscripts as an agent, I help writers move forward with clarity instead of spinning in circles.
Coaching focuses on:
Coaching Options
Light Coaching — $225/month
Standard Coaching — $375/month
Minimum commitment: 3 months
Availability is limited to a small number of writers at a time.
While I’m open to a range of commercial fiction, I especially enjoy working with:
If you’re unsure whether your project is a fit, feel free to ask.
Alexa has been critiquing and editing my stories and books for over 5 years—from the big picture to finding and helping me fix small “(pot)holes” in my plots. I can only tell you that my work is exponentially better because of her input. While it’s always recommended to have other “eyes” on your writing, she not only catches mistakes I’m blind to but also elevates character, story, and theme with her astute observations.
Alexa has been invaluable in helping me understand what my early drafts need to be marketable. She knows her stuff - she is ruthless in finding the problems but kind and clear in her critiques.
You’ll get the most value from editorial support if:
✔ You’ve completed a full draft (or are deep into one)
✔ You’re open to revision and honest feedback
✔ You’re preparing to query, submit, or self-publish
✔ You feel stuck and want professional clarity
If you’re still exploring premise or early chapters, coaching may be a better starting point than a full manuscript review.
Do you guarantee agent representation or publication?
No. Publishing outcomes depend on many factors beyond editorial work.
Do you offer line editing or copyediting?
No. I specialize in big-picture story development, critique, and structural editing.
Do you offer ghostwriting?
No. My role is editorial and coaching support.
Do you edit nonfiction, poetry, or screenplays?
My focus is commercial fiction.
Should I list the literary agent I worked for?
I’m happy to share that privately with prospective clients during inquiry.
I accept a limited number of editorial and coaching projects each month.
To inquire, please send:
I’ll reply with availability and next steps.
I bring editorial precision, market awareness, and a working novelist’s perspective to every project. I understand both the emotional side of writing and the technical craft — and I’m committed to helping you build a stronger story without losing your voice.
Let’s strengthen your story — with clarity, purpose, and momentum.