FAQ
Here are the answers to some typically asked questions.
Don't see yours? Just send me a message!
What genres do you edit?
I specialize in Romance, Fantasy, Thriller, and Mystery. However, if you write in a different genre and are interested in my services, then please feel free to reach out to me so we can discuss it directly!
Will you edit novellas, short stories, or other writing projects besides novels?
Yes! I'm open to working on any creative pieces, please just note what form your piece is in the inquiry form.
What software do you use to edit?
I use Microsoft Word to track any changes made during the editing process and to insert in-line comments throughout the manuscript. I can use Google Docs if absolutely necessary, but please be aware that the industry standard for editing and publishing is Microsoft Word. Additionally, Google Docs lacks many of the features provided by Word. If you've written your manuscript in Docs, it's very easy to transfer it to Word and I would be more than happy to walk you through that process!
What are your rates?
My rates vary depending on which editing service you are interested in. They are as follows:
Developmental Editing: Starting at $440 for 60,000 words
Line Editing: Starting at $490 for 60,000 words
I strive to offer affordable rates in accordance with Fine Line Editorial's mission. If you are interested in a more detailed explanation of what I charge, please check out my Rates page.
How long will it take you to edit my manuscript?
The timeline for project completion depends on many factors, including but not limited to: word count of the manuscript, the type of editing being done, and the amount or level of editing required. Every manuscript is different, so therefore every timeline will be different.
Before I begin the editing process, I will lay out a projected timeline based on the above factors and we will mutually agree on a "due date" that works for both of us.
Do you offer editing samples?
I do! I believe this is a very important part of the process to hire an editor, because it allows the client to get an idea of my editing style firsthand, and it allows me the opportunity to become familiar with the work and gain the information I need in order to provide a price quote and timeline.
Since this is a service I offer for free, the word count is capped at about 1,000 words or so. If you are interested in a free sample, then please fill out my Service Inquiry Form.
Are you qualified to edit my novel?
A valid question! Yes, I am qualified to edit your novel. I hold a specialized Bachelor's degree in English with a minor in Creative Writing and I have spent the past five years editing creative content (including novels, short stories, flash fiction, academic essays, creative non-fiction, etc.) I welcome any questions you have about me or my qualifications!
Which service do I need?
This is a hard question to answer universally, because it depends. I will say that typically a manuscript undergoes a round of Developmental Editing before going through Line Edits.
If your piece has not undergone any type of editing or even just slight editing, then I would highly recommend starting with a Developmental Edit (in most cases). It's important for the story to be really hammered down before moving on to the finer details.
This is an example of something I would discuss with a client after completing a sample edit!
Will I need to sign a contract?
Yes, I do require clients to sign a contract. I believe this is important so that everyone is fully aware of the scope of and the requirements for the project, and there are no surprises or misunderstandings on either side.
Do you offer payment plans?
I do! If you are interested in a payment plan, please be sure to note that in your Service Inquiry Form.
Payment plans vary client to client, but I am committed to giving authors access to my services despite any possible financial difficulties. Please message me for more information.
What determines the price quote & timeline for my project?
A few factors go into this, but the main aspects of a manuscript that determine the cost to edit and the time it takes to edit are: word count, amount of editing required, the type of editing being done, as well as genre in some cases.
What does your editing process look like?
This is a brief overview of my process:
Client completes and sends in a Service Inquiry Form.
I receive the form and go over it to make sure I'm a good fit for the project. I will send an email letting the client know if I do or do not feel comfortable taking on their manuscript, and if I do feel like I could be an asset then I will request the material for a sample edit.
After 3-5 business days, I will email the completed sample edit for the client's perusal, and then schedule a video or phone call where we can go over the sample, as well as a price quote and projected timeline.
At the meeting, we will get all the details ironed out, and I will create a contract for the project based on our mutual agreements.
I will email the client the contract for them to go over, and then once they sign and send me their full manuscript--I get to work!