Services
I offer a variety of services to help you get your manuscript in its best possible condition. While each service addresses different concerns and applies to a different stage of the publishing process, they all have one important thing in common:
They will transform your perspective on your manuscript and leave you feeling so proud of what you've accomplished.
Want to see what a marked-up document looks like? Take a look. Need help choosing what service or services are right for you? Get in touch. I'd love to help.
Copyediting
Copyediting focuses on the mechanics of writing. In a copyedit, I will apply and maintain consistency in verb tense, person, and mood; in syntax and sentence structure; and in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Because you have the final say, all changes are made with Track Changes "on." In the author review stage, you can accept or reject any suggested edits for any reason. That, combined with the thorough explanatory comments I offer, means that you are in complete control of what your final manuscript looks and sounds like.
I will also create (or update) a style sheet to ensure consistency in capitalization, hyphenation, and other style choices.
Curious about what you could expect to see in your copyedited manuscript? Take a look here.
Heavy Copyediting
A heavy copyediting service incorporates all the mechanical considerations of a regular copyedit, but also includes the kind of stylistic editing that enhances your voice, elevates the artistry of your words, and gives your readers a beautiful and engaging reading experience.
In this service, in addition to the mechanics discussed above, I focus on the rhythm, flow, euphony, and overall style of your writing. I also address issues like repetition, overexplaining, high-level POV issues, and anything that makes the writing feel flat or uninteresting.
As with all of my services, I offer explanations and track all of my changes so that you can make the most informed decision about what is right for your book. You'll also leave this service with a greater understanding of your own writing craft.
Not sure if a regular or heavy copyedit is right for you? Request your FREE sample edit and I'll be happy to show you what each service would look like in action.
Manuscript Evaluation
A manuscript evaluation is a great way to get a high-level overview of what works well—and what could work better—in your manuscript.
This service is for you if your story has a beginning, a middle, and an end and you're ready for professional feedback about the plot, structure, world-building, characters, and overall effectiveness of the work as a whole.
This service does not involve any in-document markup or notes about grammar or punctuation. It does involve an editorial letter with insights and advice about how to leverage what is working well in your book and how to improve what isn't serving the story. If you'd like to see what sorts of feedback you could expect from a manuscript evaluation letter, take a look here.
Targeted Beta Reading
Targeted beta reading (also known as sensitivity reading) is a service focusing on the authentic representation of specific groups of people.
When I do a beta read, I am looking to make sure there is no unintentionally harmful or biased language in descriptions or storylines of characters who are queer.
There are several options for the deliverable of this service:
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A 2-5 page editorial letter after your manuscript is complete. (Can be an add-on or stand-alone service.)
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Consultation during the planning stage of your process.
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General consultation.
Formatting and Proofreading
Ready to make your manuscript into a book? Manuscripts can be formatted for most any format of e-reader as well as print-on-demand services.
After I've received your approval of the final formatting, I will proofread the manuscript to ensure no lingering errors have slipped through the cracks.
Doubled letters, missing commas, orphans, widows, and end-of-line hyphens in the middle of lines are the targets of a proofread.
This is the very final step of your publishing journey. You've worked so hard to get to this point. Let me get your story ready for your readers!
Sample Edit
You've poured your heart and soul into this manuscript, and I know trusting an editor with your words is a huge ask. How do you know they will treat your manuscript the way you want it to be treated?
A complimentary sample edit is a great way to test the waters before you take the plunge. I'll copyedit (or proofread) 1,000 words from your manuscript so you can see how I would address your work. If you like what you see, we can talk about moving forward on your project. If you don't, no hard feelings! Tell me a little about your story and request that FREE sample edit here.
The
Copyediting
Process
Before we begin
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You submit your manuscript as an MS Word document.
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I edit 1,000 words and return it to you with a quote for the full project.
After you accept
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You pay 50% of the project cost.
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I complete the first round of edits using Track Changes.
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You make any additional edits, respond to questions, and return the document to me.
Finishing touches
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I incorporate any notes and changes you have made.
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I complete a final clean-up to ensure your manuscript is ready to go.
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After the balance is paid, you receive your edited manuscript.