EDITOR
my services
The following definitions are summaries, each followed by an elipses. This indicates that detals are available, accessed by clicking here.
MANUSCRIPT EVALUATION—Analysis
Manuscript Evaluation is a helpful first overview of any manuscript. The editor first reads the material and gives an analysis of what works in the narrative and what doesn't. In nonfiction, the focus is on structure, development, clarity, consistency, quality of evidence. In fiction, the focus is on plot, dialog, characterization, point of view, pacing, sentence variance. Authors receive a chapter-by-chapter written critique and an overall assessment.
COPYEDITING—Compliancy
The copy editor makes a manuscript compliant with standard English grammar and punctuation and is the most common level of editing. Very little is a judgment call. Authors receive a pencil-edited compliant manuscript that may include... (see link above)
The Style Editor standardizes the formatting of text according to one of four manuals. There's no right or wrong way to head a chapter but consistency is necessary. Author receives a pencil-edited formatted manuscript that may include... (see link above)
SUBSTANTIVE EDITING—Functional
The Substantive Editor (sometimes called developmental or content editor) addresses the functional issues, pointing out elements that derail the narrative by assessing logic, clarity, structure, and organization. The Substantive Editor renders the narrative clear, concise, and easy to read at the sentence, paragraph, and chapter level. Ultimately, she makes the manuscriptfunctional for readers. Authors receive suggestions for author reflection and a heavily pencil-marked functional manuscript that may include... (see link above)
my specialties
FICTION—I love biographical novels, historical novels, contemporary women's fiction, Biblical fiction, high drama page turners, and slow, character-driven stories. I like it all. Put me in a new setting where someone is forced to encounter themselves—while giving me some skin in the game. I don't do science fiction, horror, and anything above the sweet romance grade.
NONFICTION—if the topic interests me, some children’s books, and I delight in memoirs and family histories.
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my approach
I'm tough because I like editors who are tough. It's how I've learned to write—and how I continue to improve. The thing to keep in mind is you're in charge. You decide how much input you want, and you have the last say. And I do try to be nice. I appreciate the process and will always point out and praise the areas that really work.
getting started is easy
You don't have to have your project all figured out. Just contact me and we can decide together what works for you and your budget.
my rates are based on the...
Editorial Freelancers Association's Guidelines
| Manuscript Evaluation | .....$500 / 200 pages |
| Copyediting | .....$ 50 / hour |
| Style Editing | .....$ 50 / hour |
| Substantive Editing | .....$ 60 / hour |
