How It Works
I. The Interest Form
In the form, you'll tell me the basics of your project (genre, word count, etc.), as well as the services that interest you. I'll usually respond within a few days (unless otherwise stated).
II. The Sample Edit
I'll provide a preliminary quote, along with a sample edit of 1000 words. A sample edit will include in-document comments and a short one-page editorial letter. This will allow us both to ensure that we are a great fit for one another.
Note: Because of the nature of the edit, a sample edit is not available if you are interested in only "The First 5K" service. You can, however, view a generic sample edit to get a feel for my style.
III. The Contract
After you've reviewed the sample edit and decide to move forward, I'll send you a contract. The contract will detail the price, time frame, and services offered. Once the contract is signed, I require a 33% non-refundable deposit to secure your spot.
If you are only requesting a "The First 5K" service, I require a $50 deposit.
For full-manuscript clients, I will also send an additional (optional) questionnaire to gather a few extra details about your goals for the manuscript.
IV. The Edit
One week before I start your project, I'll send you an email requesting the most up-to-date version of your manuscript or excerpt.
Based on our agreed upon time frame, I will conduct the edit.
V. The Finale!
Once I've finished your edit, I'll send a final invoice for the remaining total (or an adjusted rate, if your word count changed between the contract and edit stages).
Then you'll receive an updated document with in-line comments and an editorial letter. The Developmental Edit clients will also receive a book map.
I'll be available for up to one month to answer any questions/provide clarifications over email. And then it's up to you to start your next draft!
Do you still have questions? Check out my FAQ, or feel free to send me a message!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything you won't edit?
Yes! I will not edit or provide feedback on writing that has been created or significantly modified by generative AI (like Chat-GPT).
In terms of genre, I am not a great fit for non-fiction, memoir, poetry, or experimental/literary fiction (i.e. fiction that does not follow genre structure and conventions).
Feel free to submit a request or contact me if you are unsure!
Do you accept payments by installment?
Yes! Please let me know before signing the contract if you would like to receive multiple invoices, and we can work out a payment schedule that works for you.
Please note that, because of the nature of the work, I cannot provide deliverables until all payment has been received.
What happens if my word count changes between when we sign the contract and when you start editing?
One week ahead of our agreed start date, I'll reach out to request your up-to-date manuscript or excerpt. If the word count differs significantly (+/- 1000 words) from the word count we initially agreed upon, I will update the total payment based on the per-word rate of the project, rounded to the nearest 100 words. This increase or reduction will be reflected in the final invoice.
What if my book is a part of a series?
If your novel is the first in a series, or if your novel is a later installment of a standalone series that can be read separately or out of order, we can carry on as normal! If my ability to edit your novel relies on an understanding of previous books in a series, then an additional fee may apply of $0.003/word of the previous novel(s) (or $300 for 100,000 words). The fee does not apply if you are a repeat client and I have already read or edited your previous work.
If you think this applies to you, please be sure to provide details in the "Is there anything else I should know about your project" section of the form.
How do your services compare to others?
There are so many great editors out there! We all offer similar services, and what I hope draws you to me is that 1) our goals and interests align, 2) you like the editing style of your sample edit, and 3) you are looking for an approach to editing that is constructive, educational, and comprehensive.
If you are curious how my rates compare to others in the industry, you should check out this helpful guide from the Editorial Freelancers Association.
How long will editing take?
Please allow 4-6 weeks for average length novels, and 6-8 weeks for novels over 120k, from the agreed upon start date.
First 5k services will take around 2 weeks from the agreed upon start date.
What if I have another question?
No problem! Just fill out the contact form below.
Contact
For non-inquiry related requests or questions. If you'd like to request a sample edit, please complete the interest form.