Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about what it’s like to work with a writing and book coach?

Browse these FAQs to learn more, or book a free 30-minute consultation with me.

  • In fact, it rarely is. Successful writers often turn to a coach because they’ve learned first-hand the value of a knowledgeable person’s perspective, feedback, and support. As in any endeavor that matters to us, asking for help is a powerful move.

  • I work with many kinds of writers.

    Some are academics or other professionals who have written extensively for work while also nurturing dreams of writing differently. Fiction. Novels. Mystery, crime, detective, thriller, romance, urban fantasy, paranormal.

    Others are life-long readers with a facility with language and ideas and who dream of writing novels of their own.

    Some are first-time novel writers, and others are farther along but fighting perfectionism or procrastination.

    If any of these sound like you, let’s schedule a free half-hour video call to determine our compatibility for working together.

  • We help writers move forward with their goals.

    In my practice, I read writers’ pages, talk with them about their ideas, questions, self-doubt, and provide feedback for strengthening their work. I offer coaching through the whole process, from developing their idea for a book into a solid, usable plan for one, to writing and refining their manuscript, to presenting their most effective pitch possible.

    In every conversation with clients, my most basic considerations are their strengths and areas for improvement. Developing their abilities is first, last, and always on the agenda.

  • I offer both in-person and virtual coaching. We can meet in person in Portland, Oregon, or through video-conferencing from wherever you are in the United States or beyond.

  • After your free 30-minute consultation, work will begin when you’ve made payment for the services you've chosen.

    You can pay by check or online via Zelle. Zelle doesn’t charge a fee, but it’s recommended to confirm with your bank or credit union to ensure that they don’t.

“Karen is a wonderful collaborator and sounding board for anyone trying to express themselves through writing, and we know first hand that she can help writers of all abilities build their confidence and skills.”

— MIKE & REBEKAH GARRINGER

Sharpen those pencils; dust off that laptop.