
EDITOR
I’ve been an in-house acquisitions editor at HarperCollins Publishers in the Adult Trade Division, and I have a degree in Latin (Classics). I’ve worked with bestselling authors such as John Gray, Dr. Dean Ornish, Marianne Williamson, and more.
WRITER
I’ve cowritten, ghostwritten, and edited many books that include the award-winning Raising a Sensory Smart Child, and the Cinematherapy series which has sold over 340,000 copies worldwide and been dubbed a "cultural phenomenon" by USA Today. I cowrote two television specials based on Cinematherapy, which aired on the Women’s Entertainment network. I’m a member of the ASJA: American Society of Journalists and Authors.
GHOSTWRITER
I’ve ghostwritten a New York Times bestseller and many books from major book publishers. My clients work with me over the phone and internet to create their works of nonfiction including memoir.
PUBLISHING CONSULTANT
Because of my 20+ years of experience in the business wearing so many different hats, I’ll help you figure out what your strategy and next step should be.In conjunction with Cinematherapy and my other books, I’ve done publicity on TV, radio, online, in print, and in person at launch parties, lectures, and workshops. I know how to help you get in the media and effectively promote your book.

I’ve been on both sides of a book proposal, as the author and the acquiring editor. When I was an in-house acquisitions editor at G.P. Putnam's Sons/Perigee and HarperCollins/HarperPerennial, I brought potential book projects to the attention of the editorial board in the hope of acquiring them for my list. That's how I learned about the elements that make or break a book proposal.
I’ve also written many book proposals for myself and others that have led to successful book deals. I stay apprised of what’s happening in the book publishing business, as well as in social media and traditional media, so I know how to create a strong book proposal that will convince a publisher that the project will be profitable.
When I evaluate or help you create your book proposal, I will consider whether it's the right time for you to approach an agent with your proposal (that is, if you don’t already have an agent). If, and only if, I feel your book proposal is ready or nearly ready to be submitted, I will recommend specific agents I feel might be a good match for you. However, I only make personal recommendations to agents I’ve known for years when I truly feel the project is up their alley.
“Always current, Nancy knows what publishers want and need. With her help, I sold my first manuscript to a major publisher, after only 5 submissions. Go with Nancy.”—Omar Rosales, author of The Elemental Shaman
“Nancy Peske’s support preparing my book proposal for submission was invaluable. I know that her skills and experience as an editor and writer gave me the edge that helped to get an agent and a publisher.”—Elena Mannes, author of The Power of Music: New Discoveries in the Science of Song
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and Consulting Packages
PLEASE NOTE: If I believe I am not the right person to help you, I will let you know and will do my best to direct you toward a professional peer whose work I can personally recommend. If you feel unsure of an editor or writer you’ve already hired and are wondering if you’ve made a mistake, e-mail me with details and let me give you my honest opinion at no charge. I will keep your situation completely confidential. Very often the problem is simply one of different approaches or communication styles and it can be solved, but it may be that you’ve hired the wrong person for you. Let me offer you my perspective and help you gain clarity about the situation!
How to Create a Comparative Books List That Will Get You a Book Deal! The comparative books list is a crucial element in a successful book proposal. While all the pieces of a proposal are important, the comparative books list (also called the competitive books list) is your best tool for convincing an agent or an in-house acquisitions editor that your book will stand out in the marketplace and add something new while appealing to an established book buying audience.
What Type of Freelance Editor Do You Need? Hoping to get your manuscript published? You may need to hire a freelance editor to help you achieve your goal. However, there are two types of freelance editors, developmental editors and line editors. Each has different credentials and skills. Learn here about which type of editor is right for you at this time in your book's development.
The Elements of a Book Proposal A book proposal is your selling tool for finding a literary agent and ultimately, selling your book to a publisher and getting a book deal. It has a marketing piece and an editorial piece. Regardless of whether you've written your book, you will need this selling tool, the book proposal, unless you are self-publishing. If you are self-publishing, read this article anyway to get ideas on how to structure your book and begin strategizing your marketing plan.
7 Common Myths About Hiring a Freelance Editor for Your Book Misconceptions about freelance book editors abound on the internet. Learn the truth about how to hire the right editor for YOUR book.
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