Concise, powerful, and digestible in one sitting, the short story is an ancient form of literature that has its roots in folk and fairy tales. Today, the short story is taught in MFA workshops and residencies, and, when successful, can be rewarding for both the writer and the reader.
However, despite its word count, a short story can flummox even seasoned writers and novelists. Problems with pacing, story arcs, voice and dialogue can be specific to each piece. A second pair of eyes can be helpful in pointing out these issues.
About me: I have published short stories in Granta, Catapult, The Rumpus, and Slate, and have guest lectured at Cornell and RISD. I am an alumni of Tin House’s writing workshop and was a reader for The Rumpus’ fiction section from 2019 to 2021. My editing experience spans almost a decade, encompassing fulltime and freelance work for magazines and newspapers.
To book a service, or inquire about a service you don’t already see here, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
“There are very few people who wear the reader, writer, and editor hat so well, and throughout my years of engaging with literature, I’m lucky to say I’ve encountered one in Ysabelle Cheung. Thoughtful, graceful, and wise, Ysabelle is a rare genius to work with. She is an invaluable blessing to the literary world.”
Short Story Basic Edit (up to 2500 words)
USD 75
A basic edit will ensure you receive a personalized note about the story’s strengths and areas of improvements, as well as brief line edits and margin comments.
Turnaround time is 1-2 weeks. (A rush fee of USD25 can be applied for turnaround of less than a week.)
Short Story Comprehensive Edit (up to 2500 words)
USD 150
A comprehensive edit will ensure you receive a one-page personalized note with extensive feedback on structure, pacing, and narrative arc, as well as in-depth line edits, and margin comments.
Turnaround time is 1-2 weeks. (A rush fee of USD30 can be applied for turnaround of less than a week.)