Universal Terms

These terms and conditions apply to all book coaching and editorial services provided by Karmen H. Spiljak. Please read them carefully before booking.

1. Coaching

As your book coach, I support both your story and your growth as a writer. That means we’ll be working with the words on the page, but also occasionally stepping back to explore your creative process, mindset, and motivation. I’ll provide honest, thoughtful editorial feedback, along with practical next steps. In return, I ask that you show up ready to do the work and receive feedback with curiosity and openness. My aim is always to help you tell the best version of your story.

2. Artificial Intelligence

Writers who use AI to brainstorm, research, or enhance their process are welcome here – it can be a helpful tool when used mindfully. However, I don’t offer coaching or editorial services for manuscripts written or generated by AI. A core part of my work is helping writers develop their craft through the language they’ve created. If you’re looking for support with AI-generated material, another coach is a better fit.

3. Cancellation Policy

You’re free to cancel or withdraw at any time. However, once payment is made, I don’t offer refunds.
Why? Because as soon as I receive payment, I begin preparing a tailored plan and reserve your spot in my schedule, often turning away other writers in the process.

If, however, I’m unable to deliver the service due to serious illness or an unforeseen dire emergency, I will either offer a full refund or propose a new timeline, depending on your preference.

If you’re unsure whether this is the right fit, feel free to book a discovery call before committing, I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.

4. Liability

By entering into this agreement, you agree that I am not liable to you—or to any third party—for any loss or damages of any kind. I hope we’ll never need this clause, but for the record: these terms are governed by the laws of Belgium, which also hold exclusive jurisdiction over any disputes.

5. Deadlines

When we agree to work together, we’ll also agree on key deadlines when to send your work, and when to expect feedback from me. Life happens, of course. But if you miss a deadline, I may not have the same availability to offer deep, in-depth feedback and the coaching may be less valuable to you as a result.
If missed deadlines become a pattern, we’ll pause and review whether our schedule or our collaboration needs adjusting.

6. Rescheduling Calls & Emergencies

I’m happy to reschedule a call in the event of illness, injury, or a genuine emergency. Just email me as soon as possible and we’ll find a solution.

Please don’t request to reschedule simply because you feel unprepared. Coaching is about showing up as you are, even when things feel messy. That’s where real breakthroughs happen.
If you sense you’re falling behind, let me know early so we can adjust. If you miss a scheduled call without notice, I won’t be able to offer a refund or reschedule.

7. Payment

All services must be paid in advance in EUR or USD.

For editorial services, you will pay in two parts: 50% before I begin, and 50% upon delivery.
Payment can be made by Wise, or by credit card via Stripe. Payment is due on the date specified on your invoice.

As mentioned above, all payments are non-refundable. I don’t offer royalty-share or contingent-fee arrangements.

8. Business Information

My business name is Karmen Spiljak, trading as Karmen H. Spiljak, StoryAllegiance Editing and Book Coaching. I am not registered for VAT. You can contact me via the email address I provide when you apply for services.

9. Guarantees

While I’ll always bring my best to our work, I cannot guarantee external outcomes—such as securing an agent, a publishing deal, commercial success, or glowing reader reviews.

What I can guarantee is this:

• In coaching, I offer a supportive, honest, and practical process to help you gain clarity and confidence in your story.
• In editing, I provide a thorough, thoughtful editorial review to the best of my ability.

10. Confidentiality

Your work is yours always. Everything you share with me, whether in writing or in conversation, will be treated with care and confidentiality. I will never share, distribute, or discuss your manuscript or ideas with anyone else unless you’ve given explicit permission in writing.

I may occasionally ask for a testimonial, and while I reserve the right to speak about our work in broad, general terms for business or marketing purposes, I will always request your consent before sharing any personal details about you or your story.

11. Communication & Response Times

You can expect a reply to emails or messages within one working day. I generally respond Monday to Friday and occasionally on weekends, but please don’t rely on weekend availability unless previously agreed.

If I will be unavailable for any reason (e.g. illness, travel), I will let you know in advance wherever possible.

Specific Terms for Editing Services

Before You Hire Me

Before we agree to move forward with an editorial service, we’ll confirm:

• What kind of edit you need (Developmental Edit, Full Manuscript Assessment, or Mini Manuscript Evaluation).
• The fee and deposit required to secure your slot.
• The timeline for submitting your manuscript and receiving your completed edit.

Payment Terms

Once we agree to work together, a non-refundable 50% deposit (in EUR or USD) is required to reserve your editing slot.

The balance is due upon delivery of your edited manuscript. It’s your responsibility to submit the manuscript by our agreed date. If you don’t, your deposit may be forfeited or an additional fee may be required to reschedule or complete your edit.