Services
The editing process can feel mysterious for first-time writers. I've detailed each service below so that you know what to expect. If you can't find what you're looking for, then please contact me! I'm happy to customize my services to better accommodate your needs and goals.
Hook & First Chapter
Discover if your first chapter has what it takes to engage readers and agents.
Curious if your book has a strong enough hook? Most literary agents make their decision about your book by the third paragraph (if they even get that far). That's because most writing and storytelling issues can be spotted within the first few pages.
This service helps you craft a compelling first impression. I provide feedback on your hook and initial 1-3 chapters by leaving comments in the margin so you know exactly what to focus on. This budget friendly service equips you with the knowledge and examples you need to revise the remaining chapters of your draft.
Manuscript Review
Get an objective, big-picture view of your story for a fraction of the cost.
A manuscript review (also known as a book evaluation, manuscript evaluation, or assessment) provides a big-picture overview of the strengths and weaknesses of your manuscript. It helps you know what's working—and what's not.
This service includes a full, in-depth read of your manuscript where I note any issues with the plot, characters, POV, prose, etc. You'll receive a short editorial letter with specific feedback and recommendations for your revisions.
A manuscript review is not the same thing as beta-reading or developmental editing. Beta-readers provide feedback as a reader and should reflect your target audience. A manuscript review is provided by an editor with expertise and experience on structure and storytelling.
When should I get an assessment?
This service helps authors with a completed first draft know how to take their work to the next level.
Developmental Edit
Use specific, in-line feedback to craft a more compelling story.
Want to make sure your big emotional moments hit just right? Want to avoid head hopping and info dumping? Not sure if your story includes the right conventions and key scenes that are expected for your genre?
Developmental editing is all about crafting a compelling story—and making sure that the scene structure, twists and turns, tension, and character arc deliver an effective and emotional experience for readers. As a developmental editor, I help you sharpen your structure and story by looking at how the plot, pacing, characters, POV, setting, theme, and genre conventions deliver a cohesive narrative.
This service includes:
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An initial 30-minute call to discuss your goals and vision.
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A thorough read of the manuscript, annotated with detailed comments and queries in the margin.
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A detailed 15+ page editorial letter with specific feedback, examples, and practical strategies for revision.
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A 40-minute call to discuss the feedback and answer any final questions.
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Continuous email support throughout the process.
When should I hire a DE?
Developmental editing should happen before line-level edits (copyediting and proofreading) to avoid redoing work. This is because it focuses on macro issues and may rework big-picture elements of the plot or structure.
Developmental editing is also helpful earlier on in the planning and writing process. This is a good option if you have a book idea and are currently in the planning stage, if you have a partial draft but feel stuck, or if you have a completed first draft.
Copyedit
Polish your prose like the pros and avoid those negative reviews.
Want to ensure your content is clear and consistent? Afraid of bad reviews and typos? Copyediting is the "red-line" editing that most people envision. This type of mechanical editing focuses on clarity, coherency, consistency, and correctness.
This service includes a thorough read of the manuscript and special attention to the following:
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Spelling, grammar, and punctuation
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Language and word choice
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Fact-checking
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Detail consistency
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Dialogue (fiction only)
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Style sheet for author use (fiction only)
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Adherence to The Chicago Manual of Style
When should I hire a copyeditor?
Copyediting is the second to last step in the revision process and should happen after all story revisions and developmental edits. Copyediting gives your content a professional look to ensure it's ready for publication.
Custom Edit
Receive the help you need the way you need it.
Looking for something else? Have ideas for a book but you don't know where to start? Do you need an editor for your article, blog post, newsletter, or web copy?
I can customize my services to fit your needs. Please contact me about your project for a service and rate.
Authenticity Reader
Avoid clichés, stereotypes, and offending readers.
Want your character to feel authentic? If you're writing outside of your experience, you could end up offending and alienating readers.
Let me help you avoid harmful representation when it comes to characters with disabilities, chronic illness, or mental health conditions like PTSD. Contact me for more details.
Get in Touch
Looking for an editor? Contact me about your project and let me know which service you're interested in. If you're writing a book, please include your genre, word count, and publishing goals.
