Dawn M. Barclay
Suspense, Romance
United States English (US)
About Dawn
Beyond editing, as of October, 2026, I’ve written seven novels, three nonfiction books, and edited nine crime fiction anthologies. My work has won the Agatha, Macavity, Chanticleer, Maxy, and Lowell Thomas Gold Awards, and I have been a finalist for the Anthony and Silver Falchion Awards. I have edited for several small and hybrid publishers and individual authors. I am a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association, Sisters in Crime (current NY chapter co-president), Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Society of American Travel Writers, NY Travel Writers Association, and Hudson Valley Scribes.
Services Prices in US dollars. Your written quote confirms the final price.
Developmental and Copy Editing while retaining your "Voice"
I normally do both edits together because, even though the developmental edit may require rewrites, my copy edits should show you how to move forward grammatically. The copyediting involves sentence-level edits for flow, clarity, and correctness. I explain edits in Track Changes, so my reasoning is made clear. You must know how to use Track Changes in Word to work with me effectively.
Book Coaching
This coaching program supports writers needing accountability, guidance, and encouragement. You receive weekly one-on-one support, critiques of up to 2,500 words, and email access. Coaching may also include post-editing help with querying, synopses, and industry preparation, with space limited to five clients.
Personal Histories and Memoirs
This service includes interviewing, transcribing, writing, and full production of your personal history or memoir. Each hour of recorded interview generally requires several hours (usually six hours) of crafting and refinement, culminating in a beautifully produced manuscript with layout and cover art prepared for print. (Pricing is by the hour, figure 6 hours for every interview hour).
Synopsis Writing
I craft a clear, compelling synopsis that presents your full story with professional structure and pacing. It highlights essential plot points, character arcs, and stakes while maintaining clarity and cohesion. This polished summary helps agents and publishers quickly understand your manuscript’s strengths and narrative direction.
Query Letter Writing
I write a persuasive query letter tailored to your book, genre, and publication goals. It includes a strong hook, concise pitch, and your relevant author details. The final letter positions your manuscript professionally and enhances your chances of capturing an agent’s or publisher’s attention.
Blurb Writing
I create an engaging book blurb designed to entice readers and spark curiosity. This concise, market-ready summary highlights your book’s tone, central conflict, and emotional pull. The result is a powerful, polished blurb suitable for back covers, online listings, and promotional materials.
Portfolio Books Dawn worked on
Work samples
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Achievements
- AwardLowell Thomas Gold AwardTraveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Children of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse · Author, 2023
- AwardLowell Thomas Gold AwardVacations Can Be Murder: A True Crime Lover's Travel Guide to the Mid-Atlantic States · Author, 2026
- AwardAgatha AwardVacations Can Be Murder: A True Crime Lover's Travel Guide to New England · Author 2025
- AwardMacavity AwardVacations Can Be Murder: A True Crime Lover's Travel Guide to New England · Author, 2025
- AwardMaxy AwardTraveling Different: Vacation Strategies for Parents of the Anxious, the Inflexible, and the Neurodiverse · Author, 2023
- AwardI & I (Chanticleer Award)Vacations Can Be Murder: A True Crime Lover's Travel Guide to New England · Author, 2025
- AwardAnthony Award (Finalist)Vacations Can Be Murder: A True Crime Lover's Travel Guide to New England · Author, 2025
- AwardSilver Falchion (Finalist)Vacations Can Be Murder: A True Crime Lover's Travel Guide to New England · Author, 2025
Experience
- Owner, Dawn Barclay Ink.1990-Present
- Senior Editor, Travel Agent Magazine1988-1990
Education
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