Take your readers on a heroine's journey

YOUR BOOK SKELETON 

for non-fiction

Outline all the key elements of your transformational non-fiction book, before you write your manuscript.

This intensive coaching package includes:

12-PART WORKBOOK

SUBMISSION DEADLINES

EDITORIAL ROUNDS

90 MIN. COACHING CALLS

EMAIL SUPPORT (M-F)

This package includes:

Here, you will do your thinking ahead of the writing, defining your book's key elements in advance, so that when you sit down to write, you know where you're going.
This gives your work narrative cohesion from the start, has you feel sure-footed as you move into the writing stage, and liberates you to write with creativity and ease.
This program is for you if:
You have a transformational non-fiction book in mind that will deepen your readers' knowledge about the mythic feminine, and inspire cultural change. 
You're passionate about your idea. You've gathered your materials. You've done your research.

You know your message has the potential to change lives. 

Discover your book's true identity

However, there's so much information you could put in, you don't know where to begin, how to end, what to include, what to leave out, or how to structure your materials effectively. 

Perhaps you've been trying to write on your own for some time, but keep getting stuck.

The task of writing a long-form narrative might feel insurmountable, yet you're longing to see it through to completion. 

You know this book is yours to write. You can feel it in your bones.

Your Book Skeleton for Non-fiction helps you find your book's true identity. You will put all the key elements for your book in place. The objective is to be able you see your book, as if you could hold it in your hands, before you begin writing it.

It's possible that writing this book scares you.

You feel called and resistant at the same time. 

This may not be the subject you would have chosen for yourself... yet here it is, keeping you awake at night. 

Perhaps your message feels contentious within your social, spiritual or professional milieu, adding layers of complication you'd prefer not to deal with. 

Your idea is likely to be disruptive, and this takes courage, especially if you're taking on culturally imposed misogyny. This is no small task.

If you've been writing already, you may feel as if you have one foot on the accelerator and the other on the brake: a wildly inefficient way to work.

Structure is everything in non-fiction
Above all else, we'll focus on finding an effective structure for your contents, so that you can create a pathway that unfolds beautifully for your reader - not only in terms of the book as a whole, but inside each chapter. 
You will develop a strong sense of your chapters, subheadings, ordering of contents, and narrative drive.
When you've established the narrative cohesion for your book, you are likely to experience a huge sigh of relief. This is doing the heavy lifting before you do the writing. 
This is not intended to impede your creative flow. Quite the contrary: there is enormous creativity involved in building your outlineYou either do that creative exploration now, getting the key elements of your narrative into place in advance of your long-form writing, or you're doing that as you write.
Inspire a journey of transformation

Your book's structure is intimately tied to your book's purpose: to inspire transformation. But how do you facilitate this?

You will learn to hold two sets of considerations at once: your own inspirations and reasons for writing, as well as your reader's experience of your materials

I'll provide a powerful tool to help you create a 'heroine's journey' for your reader: one that ensures that the narrative arc builds from one chapter to the next in a lockstep manner.

This may present a new mindset for you as a writer, but I'll be there supporting you along the way, asking questions to check that your transformation journey is effective from the reader's perspective.

Define your signature journey

You can expect to get a business uplevel by doing this work because we will intensively explore the signature journey you have to offer your readers, and this is a valuable business asset. 

Although our focus is on developing your book, your marketing and communications will get an upgrade in the process, because all of these pieces are interconnected.

Elevate your sense of purpose

As we work on your non-fiction book, you will find that your book works on you as you work on it. It will refine or uplevel your sense of life-purpose. This is not a beautiful claim so much as a built-in aspect of the work. You will need to dig deep to find your most deeply-held message. You will check you have real conviction, from the centre of your being, in all the things you have to say.

This process works on you like sand in an oyster. It brings you clarity, focus, creative energy, and a renewed sense of passion for the writing task ahead.

Avoid confusion and heartache

This is a rigorous process that alleviates confusion, gives you focus, and optimizes your precious writing time. You know exactly where you're going as you enter into the long-form writing; and how each section connects to the whole. 

Those daunting feelings that can arise when you sit down to face the blank page? They dissolve, because you're already intimate with the structure of your contents and your narrative flow. All the pragmatics have been thought through, leaving you free to dive into your creativity. 

With your outline created in advance, you can avoid the frustration and heartache of writing down dead ends, or having to course-correct when you're already thousands of words in, which is really hard to do, and can be expensive if you need an editor to do a lot of fixing.

Prepare for your book proposal

If you're here, you intend to pursue a traditional publishing route by signing up with an agent or one of the 'Big Five' publishers or an independent press, Your Book Skeleton for Non-fiction is an invaluable program that prepares you to write a compelling and focused proposal.

You will outline all the elements of your book - up to the point of being ready to write your long-form manuscript - with the eyes of a trained professional supporting you at every step of the way.

The result is a detailed, effective skeleton for your book that places a special focus on reader transformation. This is a consideration that many writers fail to take sufficiently into account, yet it's absolutely necessary to give your book marketplace viability.

By the time you get writing, you know exactly how to proceed... in a way that is both well-mapped out and inspired. The steps we go through in the skeleton are an ingenious way into the sections you'll need to in your proposal.

Topics we'll go into

You will define all the key elements of your book:

  • Your 'why'
  • Your credentials
  • Concept
  • Title & subtitle
  • Ideal reader
  • Author platform
  • Structure
  • Narrative drive
  • Table of contents
  • Reader transformation
  • Chapter drafts x2
  • Jacket copy
We'll place a primary focus on
YOUR VISION
You'll define the deepest vision for your book, factoring in both the muse and the marketplace, and then you'll make sure that all your authorial decisions align with that foundational idea.
READER ENGAGEMENT
You'll determine who your readers are, what their questions, desires and needs are, how whey will interact with your book, and why it will be of value to them. 
READER'S ARC OF CHANGE
You'll pay special attention to your this, offering a compelling emotional experience as well as an educational one. This is how real change is wrought... and you want your book to inspire cultural change.
I'll also support you with

ACCOUNTABILITY

You will consistently move forward towards your goals, through carefully measured accountability. I will give you weekly tasks and provide weekly deadlines as we work through your PDF guidebook.

FOCUSED PRESENCE

Writing a book requires love, sweat and dedication. Having someone in your corner can make the world of difference. My coaching comes with a high personal touch; I bring my full attention to your work.

THE BLANK PAGE

Those daunting feelings that can arise when you face the blank page? They'll dissolve, because you're already intimate with the details of our narrative... leaving you free to dive into your creativity.

CREATIVE MOMENTUM

Creative nurture and brainstorming when you encounter moments of stuckness, doubt or confusion, which is likely at some point. I am here to bolster and encourage you throughout our time together.
If you run into invisible barriers

I am certified in various healing methodologies to help you get back on your feet. Creative blocks will probably arise, but we'll endeavour to catch them early and work on dissolving the resistance that shows up.

If you have fears around going public with this particular topic because it's edgy for you, we can work on that too.

Bonus: YOUR PERSONAL MYTH

Readers these days want to feel a sense of intimate connection to you as author. This is true more than ever in the age of AI. For this reason, we will look at the most relevant memoir elements you could incorporate into your non-fiction narrative.

Throughout this package, we will discuss how to effectively weave stories from your own lived experience into your narrative, to support your book's message and optimise its emotional resonance.

Yes, you're writing non-fiction, but by cherry-picking the most relevant stories from your own life, you will add memoir elements that emphasize your book's transformational aspect, and drive your point home in a more compelling way.

The inclusion of memoir elements will evoke a stronger emotional response in your reader, opening her up to your book's contents and messaging more deeply. It can create a beautiful sense of 'connective tissue' between you and your reader, leading to a more intimate reading experience.

PRAISE

"I was surprised by how much richer my work became."

The Book Skeleton not only clarified the process of writing my book, but also clarified my online programs and the kind of market I would like to focus on.

Catriona is organised with sharp insights, but there is also room to dream big. I really felt like I could stretch my ideas as far as my mind could reach."

SANDRA RADJA

AYURVEDIC PRACTITIONER & EDUCATOR

"The joy of having everything laid out and structured is very real!"

It was essential to go through this phase. Now I know what I’m actually meant to be writing when I sit down at my computer. 

The power of structure and focus!"

MELANIE SWAN

THE SACRED WOMB

IMAGINE THE FEELING

  • You've captured your deepest vision and intentions for your book, in terms of both your controlling idea and supporting ideas.
  • You have an effective structure in place, one that takes your reader on a compelling journey through your materials. 
  • You don't need to stare at a blank screen waiting for inspiration. You know where you're going, each time you sit down to write.
  • Your next steps are mapped out in a way that feels good, because they are aligned with both your heart and your intellect. You have a sense of intimate connection with your book before it's written.
  • You're able to articulate your vision with clarity. Instead of mumbling about your project, you'll be able to speak in terms that have the other person say, "Oh! My sister would love a book like that!" This way, you can start building interest in your book before it is even written. 
  • You're well prepared to write a detailed book proposal to pitch to literary agents and publishers, if you want to take a traditional publishing route. 
 PRACTICALITIES
  • Preparation: When you sign up, I'll issue you with a detailed 12-part PDF guide. You'll work on one or several sections at a time, and send your working document to me weekly using Microsoft Word.
  • Microsoft Word: I use Microsoft Word's Track Changes, so you can always reject or accept my changes to your document. Please note: you must have a working knowledge of this software (and a subscription.) You will be asked to submit in industry format: Times New Roman font, 12 pt, double spaced with 1 inch margins.  
  • Editorial feedback: You will receive a detailed feedback letter from me on each round, focused on what's working and what isn't in a big-picture sense; plus in-line comments with specific suggestions on how you might resolve problems.
  • My notes are rigorous and detailed. I invest significant time, energy, deep thinking and expertise into all of my editorial feedback. Editorial letters will be 4-7 pages each double-spaced, though this can vary according to the complexity of your submission. 
  • Coaching calls are up to 90 minutes long and are for discussing your progress, addressing any questions you have, brainstorming where needed, and planning your next steps.
  • Email support is for questions (M-F) that don't take longer than 10 minutes to answer. More complex questions will be addressed in our coaching calls or in an editorial letter. 
  • Additional resources are provided when relevant or helpful (industry tips and guidance, articles, book recommendations, etc.)

Time investment:

  • This process takes  3-6 months to complete, depending on how far developed your ideas are already, how fast you work, and how much time you have to give to this.
  • This work requires a minimum commitment of 5 hours per week at your end. If you need more time after our package has expired, you are welcome to continue on a month-by-month retainer.

INVESTMENT:

Private intensive coaching program

$5000 USD

Gold: 3 months

fast pace

  • WELCOME PACKET
  • STORY SPINE PDF GUIDE
  • 4 x SUBMISSION DEADLINES per month
  • 4 x EDITORIAL FEEDBACK per month
  • 4 x 90 min COACHING CALLS per month
  • EMAIL & WHATSAPP SUPPORT (Mon - Fri)

$6000 USD

Silver: 6 months

medium pace

  • WELCOME PACKET
  • STORY SPINE PDF GUIDE
  • 2 x SUBMISSION DEADLINES per month
  • 2 x EDITORIAL FEEDBACK per month 
  • 2 x 90 min COACHING CALLS per month
  • EMAIL & WHATSAPP SUPPORT (Mon - Fri)
  • RENEWABLE

PAYMENT:

In full, or on a payment plan.

While prices are set in USD, payment is possible in €, AUD, or GBP on request.

Is this preparatory work really necessary?

This really depends on how your mind works. Some people rely on the inspiration that comes during the writing process; they find what they want to say by writing their way towards it. 

If that's you, this package isn't a good fit.

However for most people, and especially in the realm of non-fiction, exploring the potential of an idea before you start writing can be the difference between writing your manuscript with ease, or feeling frustrated and getting stuck later (which in turn can cause you to give up on your project).

Would you like to work with me?

Please click the button below to apply. 

You can expect to hear back from me within 1-2 business days.

Please also read my Do We Fit page here before applying.

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FAQ

*The list below provides basic information only. I will provide you with a 'terms of agreement' document when we agree to work together.

WHAT COMMUNICATION TOOLS DO YOU USE?

For edits and written feedback, we'll use Microsoft Word's 'track changes' function. This is industry standard, and it's important you're familiar with it.

For coaching calls, we will use Google Meet (which requires no special download from you.) 

DO YOU PROVIDE A WRITTEN AGREEMENT?

Yes. When we agree to work together, I will provide you with my terms of service and a book coaching agreement, so that you can review these and ask any further questions before signing.

I'll also provide an invoice for your tax records.

WILL THIS PROGRAM GUARANTEE MY SUCCESS as an author?

No. I cannot guarantee any results such as securing a publisher or agent, writing a bestseller, earnings or sales numbers; nor can I predict the success or failure of any editorial decisions.

These things cannot be predicted or guaranteed (and I'd be wary of anyone making promises). They depend on many factors, such as world events, industry trends, books about to be released that are similar to yours, and so on.

What I can guarantee is that I will offer guidance to the best of my professional abilities, to enhance the market viability of your book.

CAN I BE ASSURED OF CONFIDENTIALITY?

All communication and materials are treated as confidential, unless your permission to share with others is explicitly granted. This is stated in my terms of service.

DO YOU OFFER REFUNDS?

My services are non-refundable. Book coaching involves deep commitment from both sides. I plan my schedule around our deadlines in advance, and turn away new clients accordingly.

If you aren't sure whether this is the right step for you to take - financially or otherwise - I request that you spend some time reading this website and particularly this page. 

Once you are more familiar with me and my approach, it should become clear whether or not you wish to make the investment.

It's also really important that you're sure you have time to give generously to our work together.

WHAT IF I MISS A COACHING CALL?

You must re-schedule your call at least 24 hours in advance, unless a true emergency comes up. I count on your reliability and commitment. Late cancellations will only be rescheduled if I can make the time, and this is not guaranteed.

If I need to cancel our call, I will notify you as soon as possible. I will add an extra 30 mins onto our rescheduled call at no charge,  if I have to cancel at the last minute..

WHAT IF I WANT TO KEEP WORKING WITH YOU AFTER COMPLETING THIS PROGRAM?

If you wish to continue working with me after your 90 days are complete, we can continue on a monthly retainer together of $1000 USD, with the same deliverables.

When you finish this work, you have the option of moving directly into my next offering, Your Book Proposal for Non-fiction.

If you would like support with writing your manuscript, please read about my monthly retainer here: Flesh Out Your Book

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