Book Editing

"To be an editor, you have to be a reader. It's the number one qualification."

Robert  Gottlieb

What do I need?

Firstly, whether you have completed a first draft, or second, fifth or tenth redraft of a novel, then congratulations, it is a great acheivement. You've put in the hard work, determination and and effort. Now it's paid off.

In today's competitive marketplace, whether you are trying the indie or traditional publishing routes, you need a professional edit in order to progress your manuscript for publication. If you are submitting to an agent, small publisher or self publishing, your copy should be error-free and professionally polished.

A lot of writers wonder when they are ready for a professional manuscript edit.  Obviously this can vary from person to person, but generally, if you have already been through several redrafts and received  feedback from a few trusted (beta) readers then your manuscript is probably ready for a professional edit.

I offer several different options for fiction writers. If you are unsure what you might need, then please get in touch and I will be happy to advise. Even if you have yet to complete a manuscript but would like feedback on the opening and the synopsis, I am happy to help.

I edit a range of books from literary fiction to Women's fiction and Book Club fiction. I have a particular interest in the supernatural, gothic, horror, dark fantasy, speculative and literary -speculative genres, as I read and edit a lot of work in these areas. Other areas in which I specialise include fiction set in France or with French themes and fiction with musical themes.

Having said that, bring me your book, short story or poetry, whatever the themes and genres and I will be happy to edit it.

Fiction Editing

Full Manuscript Copyedit:

This is for writers who require a reliable and experienced editor to copy edit. A full manuscript proofread is also included. You receive a fully edited manuscript with track changes for you to accept or decline on each editorial decision, along with a separate editor's report explaining editing decisions and suggestions for next steps.

First 10,000 Words Copyedit:

Many agents request the first 10,000 words of a manuscript in their submission requirements. This is a line by line copyedit and proofread with track changes to ensure your submission is as polished as possible. A separate editor's report explaining editing decisions is included. The synopsis can also be included in this copyedit.

Reader Report:

I will close read through the entire manuscript twice and provide you with a detailed reader report on various aspects of the book including character, plot, structure, pacing and setting. I will also discuss where the work sits in the marketplace and suggested next steps.

First Three Chapters and Synopsis Report:

The first three chapters and synopsis is another popular agent request. As with the 10,000 word edit, this is a line by line copyedit and proofread with track changes to ensure your submission is as polished as possible. A separate report explaining editorial decisions is included.

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Final Manuscript Proofread:

This is a final line by line proofread to ensure your copy is error-free. This is for those who are ready to self publish or submit to literary agents and indie publishers.

Non-fiction

Non-Fiction Books/Articles:

I am happy to offer proofreading or copy editing services for any non-fiction project. I specialise in journalism, education, music and all things to do with France but I am open to all projects.

Memoir Writing:

If you have a personal story to tell but you need help planning, structuring and drafting your work, I can offer a planning, proofreading and editing package. I can support you through the whole process and get you to the working manuscript stage. They say everyone has a story to tell...

I can also write a memoir on your behalf. This option includes six to ten hours of face to face/zoom interviews and email contact to put together your story and craft a narrative. You will have a fully polished memoir manuscript at the end of the process.

Whatever your editing needs, I offer a friendly and supportive service. As a writer myself, I am aware of just how much hard work goes into your manuscript, as well as all the twists and turns in the road you might encounter along the way. I am here to help polish your manuscript to the highest possible standard.

If you require a different type of edit/report from those listed here, for example: a structural edit or a progress report on a first or second draft, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Useful links:

Writer's and Artist's Yearbook:

https://www.writersandartists.co.uk/:

Top tips on submissions from a literary agent:

https://www.andrewlownie.co.uk/fifteen_tips