Mini-assessments

Mini-assessments include a full read of the manuscript, a brief memo (1–2 pages) on general thoughts and the biggest concerns/recommendations for the manuscript, and a one-hour editorial call.

The memo will act as a base/structure for the call, during which the editor will expand on the points listed in the memo and discuss them with the author.

The purpose of this package is to give initial feedback that would determine a path forward with the manuscript.

Package features:

• 1-to-2-page memo of feedback on the manuscript

• 1-hour call with the editor

Standard assessments

A manuscript assessment is an in-depth report (about 10 pages or more) that provides overarching editorial feedback on developmental concerns within the work. It analyzes character development, plot arc, world building/setting, pacing, structure, believability, clarity, language, writing style, and more. 

Generally, manuscript assessments are the first step of developmental editing. They are highly recommended for resolving macro-level concerns in the work.

This package includes an hour-long follow-up call.

Package features: 

• 10-plus-page editorial assessment

• 1-hour call with the editor

Assessments with margin commentary

In this package, the standard manuscript assessment is supplemented by margin commentary that highlights where and how the manuscript can be revised to address the developmental points detailed in the assessment.

The margin commentary lends further specificity to the edit, as it points out smaller plot inconsistencies, minor character issues, dialogue concerns, overused language, and more.

This package includes an hour-long follow-up call.

Package features:

• 10-plus-page editorial assessment

• Margin commentary on the manuscript

• 1-hour call with the editor

Margin commentary only

Detailed, comprehensive margin commentary throughout the manuscript highlights developmental concerns and provides editorial recommendations.

In this package, margin commentary covers the same developmental aspects of a standard manuscript assessment but flags them as they occur in the manuscript. It also allows for specific editorial recommendations on smaller plot inconsistencies, minor character issues, dialogue concerns, overused language, and more.

This package includes an hour follow-up call; it does not include line editing.

Package features:

• Margin commentary on the manuscript

• 1-hour call with the editor

Line editing

This package includes in-line editing of the work and focuses on strengthening the manuscript by improving its plot arc and structure (plot holes, gaps in continuity, pacing of scenes/chapters, and narrative structure), refining its character development and motivation, tightening the text, and helping the work to meet the requirements of its genre.

Line editing offers suggestions for trimming and rewriting, redrafts dialogue and paragraphs, addresses concerns on a scene-by-scene basis, and clarifies the writing. The package also features margin commentary for queries and recommendations on lingering developmental concerns.

This package includes an hour follow-up call.

Package features:

• Line edit

• Margin commentary on the manuscript

• 1-hour call with the editor

   

Comprehensive editing

Comprehensive editing is our most in-depth option for developmental editing. The package includes the following:

• a report (7 or more pages) covering overall editorial thoughts (character development, plot, world building/setting, pacing, structure, believability, clarity, language, writing style);

• margin commentary that addresses specifics on a scene-by-scene basis (smaller plot inconsistencies, minor character issues, dialogue concerns, overused language);

• suggestions for trimming and rewriting larger pieces of text;

• and a full line edit of the manuscript to refine and clarify writing.

This level of intensive work is also known as book doctoring. Comprehensive edits are not recommended for a manuscript that needs a significant rehaul or large-scale rewriting to address developmental concerns.

This package includes an hour follow-up call.

Package includes:

• 7-plus-page editorial assessment

• Line edit

• Margin commentary on the manuscript

• 1-hour call with the editor

Copyediting

Copyediting occurs after a manuscript has been through developmental editing and revision. The edits do not alter the developmental content of the work; instead, copyediting is a mechanical form of editing that focuses on the sentence level.

A copy edit clarifies language and voice, corrects errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax, and ensures the continuity of plot, character details, and setting.

This package includes a half-hour follow-up call.

Package includes:

• Copy edit

• 30-minute call with the editor

Proofreading

Proofreading is the last pass before the manuscript is finalized. The purpose of proofreading is to detect any remaining errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar. It is recommended prior to publication.

Package includes:

• Proofread
  

Query letter editing

We offer content and editing services for authors desiring a professional opinion on their query letter as they prepare for the submission process to agencies. This involves a full read and line edit of the query letter, recommendations for improvement, and suggestions of comparative titles, if needed.

A proofread of the manuscript excerpt can also be added to this package.

Package includes:

• Line edit of query letter

• Proofread of manuscript excerpt (optional)