Editing

Developmental Editing is where the magic happens. This is big-picture editing that examines your story structure, character development, pacing, and narrative arc (for fiction) or argument flow, organization, and topic development (for nonfiction).

This is an intensive, collaborative process where I work hand-in-hand with you to give your manuscript that “wow” factor. Think of me as your book doctor—I diagnose what’s not working and prescribe specific solutions to make your book the best it can possibly be.

Line Editing focuses on how you say what you say. I refine your prose at the sentence and paragraph level, improving word choice, syntax, flow, and readability. This is where your writing voice gets polished to a professional shine.

Copy Editing addresses the mechanics—grammar, spelling, punctuation, consistency, and adherence to style guides. This is technical precision work that ensures your manuscript is error-free.

Proofreading is the final quality check after your book is designed and formatted, catching any last-minute errors before publication.

My Publishing Degree Advantage: Unlike editors who study short-term certification programs, I have a 4-year Bachelor’s degree in Publishing with a minor in English. This means I studied not just editorial technique, but the entire publishing ecosystem—market analysis, acquisition criteria, production, and business strategy—plus the works of the literature greats, such as Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Shakespeare, Poe, and so many others. 

When I edit your manuscript, I’m thinking about more than just craft. I’m considering: Will this appeal to readers? Does this structure work for your target audience? Will this book position you competitively in your genre? My edits improve both your writing AND your book’s marketability.

True Partnership Approach: Editing isn’t a one-and-done transaction with me. Every developmental and line edit includes:

• Initial consultation call to understand your vision, audience, and goals
• Multiple editing rounds to refine your manuscript
• Both “clean” and “tracked changes” versions so you can see my process
• Follow-up support to discuss changes and answer questions

You’re not just hiring an editor—you’re gaining an editorial partner invested in your book’s success.

Timeline depends on your manuscript length, complexity, and current condition, but here are typical ranges:

• Developmental edit – 6 to 8 weeks
• Line edit – around 4 weeks
• Copy edit – 2 to 3 weeks
• Proofreading – 1 week

Once I review your full manuscript, I’ll provide a precise timeline.

Need it faster? I offer expedited editing for authors with impending launch dates or time-sensitive deadlines. Premium rush service ensures your project moves to the front of my schedule.

Every developmental and line edit includes:

✓ Strategy consultation call where we discuss your target audience, publishing goals, and vision for the book plus any areas you struggle with
✓ Comprehensive manuscript analysis with detailed feedback on what’s working and what needs attention
✓ Multiple editing rounds to progressively refine your manuscript (most changes happen in round one; subsequent rounds catch lingering issues)
✓ Follow-up consultation to discuss edits and answer questions

My Comprehensive Approach: When you hire me for developmental editing, I work at both the macro level (structure, plot, character) and the sentence level (clarity, flow, word choice). This integrated approach ensures every element of your manuscript works together cohesively.

During the process, I work hand-in-hand with you to shape the manuscript and give it that “wow” factor every author wants. This means I shift pieces around, restructure chapters, and give other recommendations for ways to make the story the best it can be. Remember: you, as the author, always have the final say in any recommended changes.

This isn’t just editing—it’s manuscript transformation to take your dream to the next level.

Professional editing is an investment in your book’s success and your author career. My rates reflect my education, experience, and the comprehensive service you receive.

Pricing is customized based on:

• Manuscript length and complexity
• Type of editing required
• Current manuscript condition
• Timeline needs

To receive a detailed quote: Submit your full manuscript for evaluation. I’ll review it and provide a precise cost estimate along with a project timeline.

Most clients invest between $3,500-$6,000 for comprehensive developmental and line editing that transforms their manuscript into a publishable book. Many consider this the best money they’ve spent on their author journey.

Ready to discuss your project? Schedule a free consultation where we’ll talk about your manuscript, your goals, and how I can help you achieve them.

I edit according to industry-standard style guides:

• Chicago Manual of Style, 18th edition (primary)
• The Chicago Guide to Copyediting Fiction (for novels)
• The Christian Writers Manual of Style, 4th edition (for religious/inspirational works)

If your project requires a different style guide, just let me know.

I have a Bachelor’s in Publishing, which means I spent four years studying the entire publishing ecosystem – editorial theory, market analysis, production, design, and business strategy. I understand not just how to edit your manuscript, but how it needs to position itself in today’s market.

Certification is a qualification that started after universities phased out publishing degrees. I’ve explored various certification programs over the years, but all the classes are ones I took as part of my degree.

For new clients: I maintain limited availability to ensure every manuscript receives my full attention. Contact me to check current openings.

For returning clients: You receive priority scheduling, often 3-6 months in advance. Once we’ve worked together successfully, you’ll always have a reserved place in my editorial calendar.

Don’t wait months for editing: Unlike many editors who book 3-4 months out, I prioritize responsiveness. I often have immediate or near-immediate availability for new clients who are ready to move forward.

Next steps:

1. Contact me to discuss your project and check availability
2. Submit your manuscript for evaluation
3. Receive your customized quote and timeline
4. Reserve your editing slot with a deposit

Ready to transform your manuscript? Let’s talk about your book.