Richenda Gould: Book Coaching & Editorial Services

Don't You Dare Start Over: Get a Second Opinion

Richenda is an Author Accelerator certified fiction book coach with over 20 years of immersion in writing communities, workshops, and even peeking behind the curtain of the publishing industry.

She specializes in helping neurodivergent women adapt common writing advice and tools for their unique process so they can construct the genre-blending novel of their heart. Richenda is passionate about creative writing guidance that’s actually useful when you’re staring at a blank page. Her job is to help you write you weird!

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What is book coaching?

Finish Your Novel with a Book Coach

It can be a long, lonely journey before you hit publish or submit to a literary agent. Writers wonder, Is my book good enough? Will anyone want to read this? How do I know I'm not wasting my time? 

It's time for a second opinion

Book coaches help writers develop, finish, and polish their manuscripts. More than just an editor, book coaches cheer you on when your Inner Critic tells you to quit, guide you through exercises, and provide the accountability and deadlines you need to get it done. 

Richenda offers a unique combination of editorial feedback, market awareness (for both traditional and self publishing), and infectious enthusiasm. Most importantly, she knows this whole 'making art' thing is not one-size-fits-all: together you'll find what you need for this book. When you're struggling you can be sure a chat with Richenda will leave you energized and ready to tackle a plan of action. 

Sure, you could spend a decade building your own toolbox of craft knowledge, tools, and insider tips... but then when would you finish your novel? 

The first step is always a free, casual introduction call.

Whether you're unsure or ready to start yesterday, say hello! 

Filling out the linked form is not a commitment, it's an invitation to get to know one another.

Say hello to your future book coach


Services
Special Launch Rates Booking Now

My services are designed to meet you (and your budget) where you are. All one-on-one coaching packages have flexibility built in, or purchase a self-paced toolkit with the option to add coaching as you need it.

Second Opinion Assessment

The "Don't You Dare Start Over!" Package

Get actionable feedback on your full manuscript, robust outline, or partial manuscript with outline, and support while you put those recommendations into practice.

  • Edit Letter with recommended next steps
  • Inline Comments on examples (with emoji reactions!)
  • 5 hours of 1:1 call time for questions, troubleshooting, and brainstorming
  • Flexible support options while you implement feedback

See all the details & pricing

The Monster Novel Structure Workbook

How to Plot Without Getting Stuck

Ideal for visual learners, The Monster Novel Structure Workbook turns abstract theory into easy-to-digest illustrations. Plotters, pantsers, and anyone revising a novel will appreciate this practical guide to narrative structure for modern audiences.

The Complete Bundle includes:

  • 21 Story Beats - Forget theories that only provide 3, 4, or 7 beats. Monster Novel Structure takes a granular approach so you’re never lost.
  • 9 Examples - Learn from popular books, movies, and even Shakespeare! See structure in action—and how to “break” it successfully.
  • eBook and Printable PDF - Read it the way that works for you. 
  • Downloads Bundle - Bundled with your purchase are downloads including charts, worksheets, and even a Scrivener template.

Purchase at Gumroad (USD) or inquire for ZAR invoicing. 

FAQ
Do you only coach novels?

Yes, at this time I am only offering coaching on long-form fiction.

I'm format-agnostic, meaning I coach novels, novel series, serials, graphic novels, and am always interested in creative new ideas! I will always be clear with you where my expertise in storytelling is outclassed by a different format. For example, if you're working on a fiction podcast script I can absolutely help you with plot, character, and pacing, but I wouldn't know where to begin with sound editing. 

If you're writing nonfiction or memoir check out the Author Accelerator book coach database to find a coach specializing in these areas. 

What genres do you coach?

In a nutshell: 

  • Age Categories: Primarily Young Adult (YA) and Adult, some Middle Grade (MG). 
  • Genres:
    • Fantasy, Science Fiction, and a little Horror.
    • Contemporary, Historical, Alternative Histories, and Speculative Futures.
    • Humor, Satire, and Parody.
    • I enjoy these elements but am not the best coach for books that are Capital-G Genre Romances, Mysteries, or Thrillers. 
    • My favorite stories have a little of everything: romance, silliness, swashbuckling, devastation, terror, intrigue, and so on.

For more detail, see my Content FAQs.

How can I see ZAR pricing?

My website defaults to USD but can also display pricing in Euros or ZAR.

Rates for South Africa and the Global South are adjusted relative to cost of living, not a strict currency conversion. I’m always open to discussing your unique budgetary constraints on your free Discovery Call. That may take the form of installments, a package with a lower price point, or a DIY option like a workbook. 

Scroll down to the very bottom of any page, look for a dropdown box that says, "Showing USD" and select your currency of choice. The "Return to Pricing" link beside it will take you back up the page to view the adjusted rates. 

Try it now

What are Richenda's formal qualifications?

I have been certified to coach Fiction through Author Accelerator’s Book Coach Certification program. (Founder Jennie Nash coached the writing of Story Genius!) 

Under my pen name Bronwen Fleetwood I self-published The Monster Novel Structure Workbook, and wrote the kidlit column at DIY MFA.

I have a BA from Eugene Lang College, The New School for Liberal Arts where I studied Creative Writing. 

Less formally, I was the Organizer of the Princeton Writing Group and Municipal Liaison for NaNoWriMo’s Central NJ Region for 5 years, and have pursued writing and publishing my own novel-length fiction through studying craft, participating in workshops and writing communities, and even reading submissions for a literary agent. 

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