Samples – FREE
Every author is unique, every story different. For this reason, each project I undertake will be a new challenge, too.
All new clients are asked to submit a sample of around 1,000 words from somewhere in the middle of their manuscript, which will be copy-edited for free. I also ask for you to declare your final word count.
The reason for this is twofold. First, it gives you a chance to see how I work and decide if my methods are suitable for you. Second, it gives me a chance to see how long your book will likely take me to complete.
Developmental Editing – £36 per hour
Sometimes called Structural or Substantive editing, this is often the most useful kind of editing for my clients, especially those who may be newer to writing and self-publishing.
In fiction, it’s about looking at the big picture. Are the characters believable? Is the plot realistic? Or, can we suspend disbelief enough to believe what’s happening?
In nonfiction, I will look at the structure of your work, taking into account the chosen topic and assess whether the book achieves its aims.
Each manuscript I work on for developmental editing will come back to you marked up with corrections for spelling and grammar where appropriate, and you’ll find comments in the margin where I will highlight any anomalies in your story, or places where your writing requires further clarity. You will also receive an 2-3 page editorial report.
Larger works (greater than 120,000 words) may also include a chapter synopsis. This is partly for my benefit, as well as yours, so I can track what’s going on and with whom.
Copyediting – £32 per hour
Copyediting is what most people think about when they think about hiring an editor. It’s about studying the nuts and bolts of your writing and making sure that you are communicating effectively to the reader.
Corrections to spelling, grammar, punctuation, inconsistencies and style are all included in copy-editing.
Proofreading – £26 per hour
In a publishing company, the proofreader is the last person to see a manuscript before it goes to the typesetter or formatter.
The copy editor should have captured most errors, so this is the last chance to check for anything they may have missed. Critically, a proofread will not correct anything related to writing style unless there is an error that the previous editor has missed.
Manuscript Critique – £450 (flat rate)
I also offer a critique service. I will read through your manuscript and write a report similar to that which accompanies a full developmental edit. (Maximum word count 120,000. If your manuscript is longer than this, please ask for a quotation.)