Inquire today to get a free manuscript evaluation and quote.
Choosing an editor for your project is a big step—the intake process gives us a chance to establish goals for our collaboration before making any commitments.
✓ No COsts
✓ No commitments
What is a manuscript evaluation?
A manuscript evaluation is a “diagnosis” of your story’s strengths and weaknesses. I read the first and last chapters of your book and skim through the rest to get a sense of your characters, setting, plot, and writing style—then I report back with a half-page to a page of analysis and recommendations for which editing services will be of most benefit to your project.
What are some examples of the feedback it includes?
You might receive comments such as:
“Excellent verisimilitude within the invented world, but protagonist lacks a flaw to drive the central conflict. Recommend a round of developmental editing to strengthen character arc and conflict.”
“Excess exposition in first half of manuscript and redundant word choice. Areas to improve figurative language. Strong pacing within action and dialogue. Recommend line editing to tighten narrative, reduce redundancy, and bring out unique authorial voice.”
What is NOT a manuscript evaluation?
A manuscript evaluation is not a sample edit. Sample edits typically look at 500-1,000 words, whereas a manuscript eval addresses the piece as a whole. A sample edit is useful to verify the competency of an editor before investing time and money into working together, but it doesn’t always indicate whether our visions for the piece are compatible. Please indicate in your editing inquiry if you would like me to complete a sample edit or editing test in addition to the manuscript evaluation.
Why is a manuscript evaluation valuable?
A manuscript evaluation creates a dialogue between us, ensuring that my editing approach aligns with your vision. It’s an opportunity to set tangible goals for the manuscript and resolve creative differences before the editing process even begins.
And if we don’t end up collaborating, you’re still left with an actionable analysis of your work that you can use for self-editing or when seeking out another editor.
I believe that any time we spend communicating about your book should take you a step closer to reaching your literary aspirations.
The Intake Process
01
Send an Inquiry Form
This form asks basic questions about your project including word count, genre, and your ideal editing timeline.
02
Send Manuscript
If your project is a good fit for my services, I’ll reach out via email with my availability and to request your manuscript.
03
Free Manuscript Evaluation
You will receive a free manuscript evaluation detailing which services are recommended along with a quote based on your word count.
04
Intake Meeting
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the service deliverables or quote for the project, we can schedule an intake meeting to put your mind at ease.
05
Sign Contract and Pay First Invoice
Once we’ve settled on an editing and payment schedule you’re completely satisfied with, you’ll receive the contract and initial invoice.
06
Editing Begins
I’ll begin editing your manuscript and send over deliverables and invoices according to the editing schedule. I’m always an email or call away in the meantime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can benefit from editing?
Everyone! As an editor, were I to write a book, I would hire someone else to edit it. Every manuscript can benefit from a second set of eyes. What varies from project to project is the extent of editing needed to make it shine. I evaluate manuscripts for free before taking on a new client to make sure that the services provided match its needs.
How does the payment process work?
Invoices are sent over to you on a schedule we’ll agree upon prior to starting the editing process. Usually, 25-30% of the editing fees are due up front and the rest are divided into installments due when you receive certain deliverables or when the service is finished.
Is pricing negotiable?
Sometimes. My goal is to never turn an author away on monetary grounds. I have worked with several authors to accommodate their budgets.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I use Square invoicing which allows me to accept card and direct bank transfer. Processing cards assesses a fee (3.5%) that will be worked into the total cost of editing services.
Do you offer sample edits?
Not routinely—instead, I offer manuscript evaluations as a way to ensure our visions for the project align. However, if you still have lingering doubts about working together, I’m happy to complete a sample edit, editing tests, or share example edits from past projects.
Lingering questions, comments, or concerns?
Please reach out!