How do I know that you are the right editor for my manuscript?
The truth is, you don’t! Right now, I am a complete stranger to you so I completely understand the concerns you may have. After all, you’re about to reveal a part of yourself to someone you don’t know. As a writer myself, I am always a bit scared of putting my work out there for someone to critique. This is why I feel it is so important for a writer to develop a good relationship with their editor.
As your editor, I will take the time to get to know you as a person. I will ask questions, and I will answer any questions you might have for me. Even after I’ve completed the work you’ve hired me to do, I am always available to provide advice, support, and late-night brainstorming sessions.
Do you work with agents and/or publishing houses?
No. I only provide writing and editing services. However, if you have an agent and you would like to have them involved in the editing process, please let me know. I’m more than happy to work with them as well.
Can you help me to market my book?
While I do not offer marketing and advertising services, I’m happy (and excited) to promote your book via social media once it is published.
I’m not sure where to begin. Can you suggest which services I might need?
Of course! The scope of every project varies depending on the needs of the client. The best advice I can give you is to reach out to me via the contact form. Consultation with me regarding a potential editing project is always free, and I will do my best to guide you through the editing process depending on your unique needs.
How far along should I be with my manuscript before I seek out an editor?
Ultimately, you should have a finished first draft of your manuscript prior to seeking out an editor. However, this can also vary depending on your needs as a writer. Through our consultation, I can help you to determine whether your manuscript is ready for the next step.
How much will it cost for your editing services?
The cost for every project varies based on the length of your manuscript, the amount of work requested, and your unique needs where it comes to your manuscript. Prices for each of my services can be found on the Services page. I will also provide a free estimate prior to entering into a contract with you.
Why are these services so expensive?
While the cost associated with editing your manuscript may seem intimidating, the prices I have set for my services are actually lower than or equal to the average rate.
According to The Writer’s Market, the average cost varies per service provided. Consider that the average double-spaced page is approximately 250 words, and the average length of a manuscript is 75,000 words (300 pages)…
Average cost (according to Writer’s Market)
Proofreading: $3.09/page x 300 = $927.00
Content Editing (developmental/structural editing): $7.50/page x 300 = $2250.00
My cost
Proofreading: 75,000 words x .01 = $750 (for a 300-page manuscript )
Content editing (developmental/structural editing): 75,000 words x .03 = $2,250 (for a 300-page manuscript)
How should I submit my manuscript for editing?
I prefer that clients submit their manuscript in a Microsoft Word document via email. However, I am willing to work through Google Docs as well.
How will I receive feedback throughout the editing process?
The feedback you will receive will depend on the services you have hired me to provide. You can find a breakdown of each service on the Services page. That said, you will also have the opportunity to correspond with me via email, text or phone call throughout the editing process.
How long will it take to have my manuscript edited?
Turnaround time varies for each project depending on the services requested. You can find a breakdown of this on the Services page. I will also provide a more specific time frame during our consultation.
Do I have to follow all of your advice?
Not at all! My job as your editor will vary based on what you have hired me to do. As the writer, your work remains your work. You should think of me not only as your editor, but also as your advisor. It is my job–particularly where it comes to developmental editing–to provide you with suggestions for improvement, critique of particular parts of your story, advice on how to expand your narrative, and to point out areas that may not work as well as they should. It’s entirely up to you whether you will use that advice while revising your work.
Also, if you ever have questions regarding anything I have suggested, you are free to contact me at anytime!
What if I’m not satisfied with the services you’ve provided?
While it is my sincere hope that you will be 100% satisfied with my services, I am aware that sometimes a client may not always feel that way. That said, the work you have hired me to complete takes time and effort so payment for services completed are not subject to a refund.
However, I want to make sure that your experience with the services I provide is always positive. If you are not 100% satisfied with the work I have completed, please let me know immediately and I am happy to provide further editing on a case-by-case basis free of charge.
I am a repeat client. Can I get a discount if I hire you to edit my newest manuscript?
YES! In appreciation for becoming a repeat client, you will receive a 10% discount on future editing services for new manuscripts you submit.
Should I worry about copyright?
No. As a fellow writer, I always have the same concern when I send my work out to someone else. Rest easy in the knowledge that I will never share your work with anyone other than you, and that I will always protect your privacy as an author.
Can you format my manuscript as an e-book?
Unfortunately, I am currently unable to provide this service. That said, I may offer it in the future so stay tuned!