work with me | Megan Shepherd

Speaking & Coaching

Full Manuscript Overview & Publication Coaching

$1200-1800

If you’ve finished a novel (or are close), and you’re unsure what comes next, this service is designed to help you see your work clearly and move forward with purpose. As a New York Times bestselling author with over a decade in both traditional and indie publishing, I offer a thoughtful, in-depth read of your manuscript, followed by a conversation tailored to where you are in your writing journey.

What this includes:

A full read of your manuscript
A 5–7 page editorial letter offering big-picture feedback on character, plot, pacing, world-building, theme, and voice.
A 60-minute Zoom call to discuss the notes, ask questions, and guide you through your next steps, whether that’s revision, querying, or advising on the variety of publication paths
One follow-up email in the weeks after our call, in case more questions come up

This is not a line edit or a developmental overhaul. It’s a focused, professional response to your work, delivered with honesty and care.

This might be a good fit if:

You’ve finished a manuscript and want honest, experienced feedback
You’re torn between querying traditional agents and editors, revising again, or self-publishing
You’re ready to invest in your writing, but prefer a one-time consultation rather than an ongoing coaching commitment
You’re craving encouragement that’s also grounded in reality

Cost:

Manuscripts up to 90,000 words: $1,500
90,000–120,000 words: $1,800
Under 50,000 words: $1,200

Turnaround time is typically 4–6 weeks.

If you’d like to inquire about availability or ask if this is the right next step for your project, please email me at megan@meganshepherd.com.

One-Time Publishing Guidance Call
$275

If you have a finished or work-in-progress manuscript and you’re wondering what the next step should be, this call is designed to give you a clear path forward. There are many ways to bring a book into the world: traditional publishing, small presses, hybrid models, self-publishing, and more. Each has its own rewards and challenges, and the best choice depends on your goals, your timeline, and your project.

In this one-hour Zoom call, we’ll talk through where you are, where you want to go, and how you might get there. I’ll answer your questions, share what I’ve learned from years in both traditional and indie publishing, and help you find the path that fits you best.

What this includes:

An intake form ahead of time, so I understand your goals before we meet
A 60-minute Zoom call focused entirely on your questions and options
A follow-up email afterward with any resources, links, or notes we discussed

This call is meant to be practical, honest, and supportive, whether you’re seeking an agent, considering self-publishing, or simply want a professional sounding board as you navigate your next move.

Cost:

$275 for the full session, including intake and follow-up

If you’d like to schedule a call or ask if this would be a good fit for your situation, you’re welcome to reach out at megan@meganshepherd.com.

Speaking Events

$2500/day

One of the great joys of my career has been traveling to meet students, librarians, and fellow book-lovers across the country to inspire readers and writers through real-world storytelling.

Sample Program Offerings:

The Writing Life: I share my journey from young reader to published author, including how I write and edit my books, the ups and downs of a creative career, and behind-the-scenes stories from The Madman's Daughter series, The Cage series, The Secret Horses of Briar Hill, and Grim Lovelies. 30–60 minutes. Best suited for pre-teens, teens, or adults.
The Art of Retelling: In this presentation, we explore what it means to take a classic novel, myth, or fairy tale and breathe new life into it for a modern teen audience. I’ll share different styles of retellings, research approaches, and the heart of what makes a retelling resonate. 45–60 minutes. Best suited for teens or adults.
"Shelf Awareness" Writing Workshop: A hands-on writing workshop designed to spark creativity. We’ll talk about how to find story ideas, how to organize them, and how to craft a powerful opening--with collaborative writing exercises along the way. 60–120 minutes. Best suited for pre-teens and teens.
Keynote Talks: "Finding Magic on the Page" is an inspiring, engaging, heartfelt talk about the ways reading and writing create magic in the world.
Custom Programs: If you’re interested in a topic not listed here, I’m happy to create a custom presentation or workshop for your audience. Please note: designing a new program involves additional preparation, so there is a $250 custom content fee.

Speaking Fees

$2,500 per day comprising up to three sessions (presentations, workshops, panels) + travel expenses (mileage and/or flight, hotel costs)
Book festivals, conferences, and book fairs: In certain cases, I waive my speaking fee for these events. Please contact me for more information: megan@meganshepherd.com.
Local schools: I offer free visits whenever possible for North Carolina schools in Buncombe, Henderson, and Transylvania Counties.Space is limited each year, so early planning is recommended.

If you’d like to invite me for a school, library, or community event, I would be honored to hear from you. You can reach me directly at megan@meganshepherd.com.