Work With Me

I help people write, edit, and self-publish the stories they've always wanted to share—no experience needed.

One-on-One Support

  • Writer Coaching—Single Session

    $115

    For writers who want a mentor to guide them through writing or finishing a project or navigating the path to publication.

    - A 60-minute video call: Need guidance on what makes a picture book irresistible? How to take the next step toward publishing your picture book? In this one-on-one session, I’ll help you move forward with confidence.

    - Actionable insights tailored to your needs: Before our call, you’ll share your goals, challenges, or questions, and I’ll come prepared to address them.

    - Follow-up email summary outlining next steps and offering resources relevant to your goals.

    Book a Coaching Session

  • Writer Coaching Bundle (3 Sessions)

    $275 (20% discount off the single-session rate)

    One-to-one support tailored to your project and unique goals.

    - 3 60-minute video calls: Need guidance on writing your story, working with an illustrator, or navigating the self-publishing process?  In a series of one-on-one sessions, I’ll help you move forward with confidence.

    - Actionable insights tailored to your needs: We'll discuss your goals in our first session and create a plan and schedule to accomplish them.

    - Email support in between sessions: Have a question that can't wait until the next session? I'm available by email to help you maintain momentum and make progress toward your goals.

    Get the Bundle

  • Self-Publishing Support

    Pricing Tailored to Your Project

    For writers who want to take the next step into indie publishing.

    Step-by-step guidance through the complexities of self-publishing, tailored to where you are and where you want to go. This might include story development, finding and working with illustrators and designers, or navigating the technical requirements of the major publishing platforms. We work together to produce a professional-quality book you’re proud to share. 

    We’ll start with a free consultation to talk through your project and goals, and I’ll put together a custom proposal for the path forward.

    Book a Free Consultation

  • Picture Book Manuscript Review

    Thoughtful, in-depth feedback on drafts at any stage to ensure your work is strong, sharp, and true to your voice. I identify where your manuscript is most successful and suggest specific areas for revision.

    While I offer light guidance on how to approach these changes, I don’t "fix" the text for you; rather, I give you the tools to refine it yourself.

    Before moving forward with the review, we’ll begin with a free consultation to discuss where you are in the writing process and the type of support and feedback you’re looking for.

    Book a Free Consultation

Not sure where to start?

Book a Free Consultation
Book a Free Consultation

  • "Barbara is everything you need and want in a coach. One of the most talented writers I know and a natural born teacher, she was able to analyze all the elements of my story–characters, setting, timing, plot, theme, consistency–and point out ways I could make it more engaging. And, because she’s published multiple books, she was able to make the next steps of finding the right illustrator, layout and self-publishing, seem logical and doable. Always positive, she’s also supportive and responsive, even to inquiries outside of the structured coaching sessions. Although my story is not quite yet out in print, I’m confident that with Barbara’s help, I’ll see my book become a reality, a gift to my grandchildren like no other. And it would not have happened without Barbara."

    — Lynn Hays

  • "I recently participated in Barbara Leary's writing workshop and thoroughly enjoyed breaking out of my comfort zone to try my hand at creative writing. I have never considered myself a creative writer, so I was a bit self-conscious about my ability to create interesting and engaging pieces. But Barbara's encouragement gave me a confidence boost, and the spirited and thought-provoking discussions from my fellow workshop attendees motivated me to be more diligent about nurturing my creative juices! I highly recommend Barbara's workshop to anyone looking to enhance their writing or simply enjoy a safe space free of judgment for authentic creative expression."

    — Wendi Mueller

  • “I loved every minute of the workshop with Barbara — my only regret is the hour flew by too quickly! Barbara moderated it deftly and made it a safe and creative space for strangers to connect, push each other, and grow together as writers. I’m now hooked on AWA workshops and look forward to joining more in the future.”

    — Ann Biondi