Melanie Hill
Author, Editor & Professional Plot Puzzle Solver
Writing a book is like solving a complex puzzle, especially when combined with life’s many demands. But it can be done, even with a busy schedule—I’m living proof.
A Writer’s Progress
Sorting the pieces and laying out the edges
I spent four years piecing together the first two drafts of my current work in progress. Despite using some tools, I wasn’t making the progress I wanted. Then, with the help of a professional editor over six months, my story transformed from a struggling draft to one with strong foundations.
Working with a professional editor helped to deepen my knowledge of story structure and the craft of writing scenes, putting theory into practice. These methods and tools can help you solve both micro and macro story problems.
Since completing the first draft of my story in 2014, I’ve immersed myself in story theory to understand the next steps. Story theory helped me organise my story edges, recognise patterns and gaps, and, importantly, learn from master writers.
Understanding story structure, character development, and thematic elements is crucial for crafting a story that readers will love.
Solve Your Writing Puzzle
Ready to piece together your storytelling puzzle? Let’s get started!
Put Theory in Practice
I use story theory to help writers identify and solve their writing puzzles in their work in progress and all future works. Together we write books that are worth reading. I work with writers who are serious about their craft and work hard to develop their writing muscles.
As an editor, my job is to help you uncover the missing pieces in your story, suggest the right story theory or tool, and guide you in applying it to enhance your work. The more you learn about story theory, the easier it becomes to identify problem areas, fit the pieces together, and complete the puzzle of your narrative.
Competition Ready
Get your first 10 pages and synopsis working together
One Off Problem Solver
When you know there’s a problem but can’t find the piece
Five Week Scene Writing Course
The starting piece for a great story
Developmental Editing
26-week intensive to get you a working first draft
Melanie Hill Editing Services
Looking to hire an editor?
If you’re struggling with plot problems and fear they’re unsolvable, I’m here to guide you through the process, ensuring you navigate and conquer any obstacles in your storytelling journey.
If you don’t know what type of editing you need, sign up to receive my free editing guide! You can also explore my services to see what fits.
About Me
I’m an author, poet, Story Nerd podcaster, Certified Story Grid Editor, and Associate member of the Institute of Professional Editors. Born in Launceston, Tasmania, I manage four teenage children with my husband and two cats in Brisbane, Queensland.
I have finished a middle-grade performance story and write a poem daily to sharpen my word choice precision. I’m also writing the second draft of a spy thriller novel and the first draft of a fairytale that’s been dropping hints for a while.
My passions span middle-grade and young adult stories, spy stories, and fairy tales. I am also rapidly developing an interest in master detective novels. My previous career as a logistics planner has honed my expertise in plotting and solving complex story problems.
Living by the motto “feel the fear and do it anyway,” I confront my fears daily and am dedicated to helping others overcome their plotting challenges.
Associate Member
Certified Editor
Podcast Co-Host
Member & EIC of Annual E-Zine
Books & Writing
by Author Melanie Hill
Books & Published Works
Darkest Depths Anthology In 2014, Vision Writers published an inaugural collection of speculative fiction stories, “18”. In 2016, we’re at it again, and this time, we’re digging deep and going dark.If you’re brave enough to gaze into the abyss (beware: it’s watching you), you’ll find a woman caring for a monster, a father’s suffocating guilt,…
Testimonials
by previous clients
“Melanie gave me confidence that my book would be free of errors and look professional when published. I would highly recommend Melanie to anyone who needs help with their work in progress or polishing their final draft.”
M.T. Rosevear
Author of The Adventures of Jake Jones and Grandpa’s Peculiar Time Machine
“Mrs Hill understood the ‘why’ behind this book with little to no explanation needed…she just got it. With a Heartfelt thank you for helping us get this far along with the process of bringing this book into the world.”
Clinton Beaudel Dooley
Author of You, This is Me…Over?
“Working with Melanie is a dream. Not only is she a powerhouse of writerly wisdom and story skill, she’s extremely professional. I felt respected, supported, and valued. Her insights helped me move forward with confidence and renewed enthusiasm.”
Alison D. Stegert
Children’s Author
Find the missing pieces in your story
Let’s Craft a Cohesive Narrative
If you are ready to solve the puzzle of your writing, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s fit the pieces together and create something extraordinary. Contact me to get started.