Book Editing
"To be an editor, you have to be a reader. It's the number one qualification."
Robert Gottlieb
Professional, friendly book editing
Whether you’ve completed a first draft or a tenth redraft of your novel, congratulations on your achievement!
In today's competitive marketplace, those taking indie or traditional publishing routes require a professional edit to progress to publication. If you’re submitting to an agent, small publisher, or self-publishing, your copy should be error-free and professionally polished.
Many writers wonder when they’re ready for a professional manuscript edit. This varies, however, if you’ve been through several redrafts and received feedback from a few trusted (beta) readers, it’s probably time to hand your work over to a professional editor.
I offer several options for fiction writers. If you’re unsure of what you need, please get in touch and I’ll be happy to advise. Even if you’d simply like feedback on your opening and synopsis, I’m here to help.
I edit a diverse range of books, from literary fiction to women's fiction, and have expertise in the supernatural, gothic, horror, dark fantasy, speculative and literary-speculative genres. Other specialisms include fiction set in France and copy with a French or musical theme.
Fiction Editing
Full Manuscript Copyedit
This service is perfect for writers requiring a full manuscript copyedit and proofread from an experienced, reliable editor. You’ll receive a fully edited manuscript with tracked changes which you can accept or decline. I’ll also provide a separate editor's report explaining editing decisions and recommended next steps.
First 10,000 Words Copyedit
Many agents request the first 10,000 words of a manuscript in their submission requirements. This service includes a line-by-line copyedit and proofread with tracked changes to ensure your submission is perfectly refined. You’ll also receive a separate editor's report explaining editing decisions. Your synopsis can be included in this copyedit.
Reader Report
I will close read your manuscript twice and provide you with a detailed reader report on various aspects of the book, including characters, plot, structure, pacing and setting. I’ll also highlight where your work sits in the marketplace and suggest actionable next steps.
First Three Chapters and Synopsis Report
Agents may also request your first three chapters and synopsis. As with my 10,000 word edit service, this is a line-by-line copyedit and proofread with tracked changes to ensure your submission is polished. A separate report explaining editorial decisions is included.
Final Manuscript Proofread
This is a final line-by-line proofread to ensure your copy is error-free. This service is for writers who are ready to self-publish or submit their work to literary agents and indie publishers.
Non-Fiction Editing
Memoir Writing
If you have a personal story to tell and need help structuring and drafting your work, my planning, proofreading and editing package is ideal for you. I’ll support you through the process until you’re at the working manuscript stage.
I can also write a memoir on your behalf. This option includes six to ten hours of face-to-face or Zoom interviews and email contact to pull together your story and craft a narrative. This service will provide you with a fully edited memoir manuscript.
Non-Fiction Books/Articles
I offer proofreading and copyediting services for all non-fiction projects. I specialise in journalism, education, music and France, but I’m happy to work on all topics.
Whatever your editing needs, I offer a friendly, reliable service. As a writer myself, I’m aware of how much hard work goes into a manuscript, and the twists and turns you may encounter during the process, so I understand the support that’s required.
If you’re seeking a different type of edit or report, like a structural edit or a progress report on a first or second draft, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
