So how can I help you, exactly?
There are a few different ways we might be able to work together, depending on your needs! I have a range of services that cover the gamut of developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading, sensitivity readings, and consultations on my services as well as on sexuality, polyamory, BDSM, and kink practices within the realm of literature. So that means I not only can correct your book for grammatical errors to make it clean for publishers, but I can also answer questions on how that one character is biting or using an impact toy on another character and why there might be a way to rewrite it that remembers a spine is, in fact, very fragile! Whatever your needs are, let’s talk about how I can help!
If you’re having your book edited and want to know what you’ll be receiving? You’ve come to the right place! Here’s an overview of my editorial services:
I always begin after discussing details with the clients by doing a sample edit, usually between 2 and 6 pages standard pages (size 12 font, double-spaced). This can be entirely from the manuscript, or from a combination of a few manuscript pages and a query letter, whatever works for the client. This is mainly so you can get a feel for the service you’re paying for before signing anything and so I can give you an exact quote for the project.
If my sample pages are approved, I send a contract, explicitly stating all expectations and requirements for the client, as well as for the work I’ll be doing. This will include the final fee and deadline for getting the first edit back to you.
I require half of the payment up-front and the second half upon my completion of the job. This helps to hold everyone accountable and allows me to keep a record of my invoices. I use PayPal for payments and provide you with a copy and receipt of all invoices. If there are any charges that come up (the manuscript needs another edit run, more work than anticipated), you won’t get charged without us discussing and signing a contract amendment, first.
When I’m finished, I’ll send you back the manuscript via either Google Docs or Microsoft Word, both using the Track Changes/Review feature in order for you to see suggestions and edits I’ve made. I will also be available for consultation regarding my notes and clarifying any questions you may have about the work and how to move forward.
Full Manuscript Copyedit (using CMOS 17 & Merriam Webster Dictionary):
Copyedit for grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation
Style/Line edit (clarification, language, smoothness, style, and voice of author)
A full Style Sheet to be given to the author for further use with publishers
A second edit to take a look at the changes you made and provide any feedback on them
(The secondary edit is optional; the contract/hours for this edit is separate and will be decided upon once the author has worked on my initial edits.)
Developmental Edit
Best for working through big ideas and overall character and plot development.
Easiest when an open line of communication is available with the author, preferably through email or messaging programs.
Proofreading
Best for the final stage before publication
Compare the final edited manuscript to the proof, fixing extra pages or formatting issues
Light line edit (approximately 25% of what is done during a full copyedit)
Submission Document Edit (flat rate: $250)
Full edit of query letter, author bio, synopsis (or three comparable documents)
Consultation Session ($30/hr)
Sessions over phone, email, or IM
Best for plotting suggestions, character development, as well as discussing bigger issues like presentations of polyamory, kink/BDSM/spice, etc.
Upon completion of the session, you will receive up to one paragraph (approximately 4-6 sentences) of content for your story, as related to the session (ie: a plot summary, character bio, conflict resolution, etc.)
Minimum of 1 hour.
Rates
My rates are always unique to each project, but as a general rule, I charge approximately $35/hr for editing ($45/hr for developmental), which falls on the lower end of current industry standards. I estimate my pacing following my free sample, and it usually falls between 5–12 pages an hour for copyediting and line editing, or 7–15 pages for proofreading.
I am willing to work with clients depending on their financial needs, but once a contract is signed, all rates are set in stone), so please feel free to reach out to me to discuss how I can help you get your book ready for publication!