Bio

Natasha Hanova, a freelance developmental editor and author, loves imaginative problem solving and discussing the writing craft. She is represented by Amy Giuffrida and writes Adult/YA contemporary fantasy, romance and SciFi. Natasha is a #RevPit board member and contributing editor. Her experiences as a biracial woman fuel her storytelling and her endeavors to lift and support other marginalized writers.

Pronouns: She/Her

MSWL

I love character-driven stories, great voice, and unexpected premises in Adult or Young Adult. I’m drawn in by creative worlds, unique premises, and characters facing impossible choices.

I want…

• I’d love to see more diverse fiction!
• Romance, all subgenres (except historic), especially RomCom or Romantasy.
• Paranormal, especially paranormal romance.
• Urban fantasy, dark fantasy, and dystopian.
• Horror – Monsters, witchcraft or comedic (ex. Shaun of the Dead, Ready or Not, or What We Do In Shadows).

I’m not the right editor for…

• Any kind of historic fiction.
• Picture books, middle grade, or non-fiction.
• Horror subgenres slasher, religious horror, gore/splatter, or psychological.

Q&A

How can a manuscript’s first five pages make you sit up and take notice?

It helps the manuscript stand out whenever a writer is able to introduce an interesting character with a unique voice, clear goal, and obstacles within the opening pages. The MC’s attitude about the challenges they face and the personality revealed by those obstacles make for relatable characters.

What can writers expect from working with you during #RevPit, including communication?

My number one job is to find what isn’t working for the manuscript, as well as what makes the work shine. You can expect kind, yet honest feedback on plot, pacing, characterization, and worldbuilding. We’ll start with an email, phone call, or Zoom/Google Meet to discuss any concerns. I’ll stay in touch while I do a big-picture developmental edit. After time to digest the edit letter and feedback, we’ll chat again to go over questions, concerns, or any brainstorming before you attack revisions. If time permits, I’ll do a second read.

What do you expect from writers during the #RevPit revision process, including communication?

Writing is easy. Writing well is hard. I expect writers to be open to feedback and ready to work hard. I love brainstorming and there may be times when we’ll need to work together to find solutions. Communication is key and given the tight timeline, quick responses will help us get the most out of this process.

What hobbies do you have outside of writing and editing?

I’m most likely exploring the woods with my family and dog or snuggled up with a book. I enjoy crocheting while bingeing a variety of shows from sitcoms to K-Dramas (feel free to DM recs) to action/sci-fi shows. I also love word games, card games and board games like Codenames, Forbidden Dessert or The Chameleon.