It’s difficult to send the work of your heart out into the world, and you need to have confidence that it’s landing in good hands. Before any work begins, we will discuss your project, your hopes and plans, and the kind of editing that you need. We will also get to know each other and establish a professional connection that will continue and sustain our work together. Drop a line if you want to chat about the process. I can provide references on request.
Perhaps it’s hard for you to justify putting money into your work before your work makes money. Working with a developmental editor is an expense, but its utility is similar to taking personalized a writing class. My developmental editing service is not a “one and done” exchange, and I’m happy to work with you through the suggestions and edits as you shape the next draft of your manuscript. If you have a need that you don’t see addressed below, or if you are working from a firm budget, talk to me. It’s likely that we can work together to create a package that meets your editorial needs.
I only schedule one manuscript at a time. This means that when I’m working on your book, it’s the only one on my plate, and I’ve got time to savor and digest between helpings. My turnaround time varies based on the service requested, but I strive to be both quick and thorough.
Let’s work together
| Service | Rates xxxxxxxxxxxxxx | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Manuscript evaluation | Under 60,000 words, $300
60,000-80,000 words, $400 80,000-100,000 words, $600 |
I will read your completed manuscript and give a detailed written response, including my evaluation of the plot, areas to expand or excise, notes on character development, tone, pacing, and more, including any red flags or potential hot-button issues that need to be addressed. After you receive my evaluation, we will communicate about your questions, discuss solutions, and chat about the next steps you want to take for your work. If you are early in your revision process or are looking for a fresh start on an older manuscript, this is a good service to select. |
| Developmental edit |
1.5-3¢ per word, depending on the level of work needed |
A developmental edit includes all services described in the manuscript evaluation in addition to in-text comments using Track Changes in MS Word to address specific sections, lines, or phrases that need to be reworked. I will indicate in the text specific sections to remove, rework, or expand and offer suggestions for how to do it effectively. This service is much more hands-on than a manuscript evaluation and will usually include a second round of comments after your first round of changes has been made. You also will receive a list of annotated read-alike titles that are comparable in theme, tone, and potential readership that can be used in your querying. |
| Synopsis coaching | $200 | I will read your synopsis of four or fewer pages and provide line edits and a detailed response. My response will include questions about your book to help you clarify plot and characters, my perspective on the strength and marketability of the work, and notes about your writing style and tone. The price of this service includes my re-reads and follow-up responses to your revisions of the same piece for the month after you receive my initial feedback. You will also receive a list of no fewer than three read-alike titles that are comparable in theme, tone, and potential readership. |
| Read-alike matching | $50 | I will read your synopsis of four or fewer pages or your manuscript and craft an annotated list of no fewer than four read-alike titles that are comparable in theme, tone, and potential readership. This list will be personalized for you, noting similarities to your work that can be used in your querying or marketing materials or to help you refine your revision within the context of the current market. |
| Match test | $50 | Not sure if our styles will jive? Want to test the waters? Send me the first 1,200 words and I will do a developmental edit as described above. Read-alike titles not included. If you like my work and purchase a service, this fee will be applied to the total cost of the job. |
Other services
I write and speak about librarianship, with a particular focus on effective service to adolescents. I present library inservice programs and continuing education workshops to individual libraries, consortium, and other related organizations. I live outside of Chicago and will travel. Contact me to discuss your organization’s needs, and I will be happy to create a proposal for your group.