The Process

Initial Call

Reach out via the contact form and tell me about your project. I’ll get back to you within a few business days to schedule an intro call.

We’ll chat about your manuscript—your singular vision, goals, and challenges—and choose an editing plan that best addresses your particular needs.

Quote & Sample Edit

After the call, you’ll send me a few pages of your manuscript to review. I’ll prepare a quote and send it your way within 24 hours. You can find starting pricing here.

If desired, you can also request a free sample edit; I’ll send it along with the quote.

Booking

If we both decide the project is a good fit, it’s time to book. I’ll send you a contract, a detailed scope of work (SOW), and an invoice for your 50% retainer.

We’ll also agree on a project timeline, which will depend on the type of editing and length of manuscript (among other factors).

Editing

Now it’s time for me to cook. I always begin with a close read, noting my initial reactions to the material from the perspective of a fresh-eyed reader.

On the second read, I begin the substantive work, which may include an editorial letter, annotated manuscript, book map, etc.

Delivery

Once I’m done, I’ll send the editorial materials your way via email. Upon receipt, you can pay the remainder of your invoice. At this point, I’ll also schedule our follow-up call.

Follow Up

Most editing packages include a follow-up call. This is a great time to ask any questions you may have about the edits you received.

We can also discuss how you can confidently approach your next steps, whether that be a significant rewrite, crafting a query letter, or pursuing self-publication.

Q&A

  • I edit a broad range of fiction manuscripts: Literary and Upmarket (or “Literary Plus”) Fiction, Historical Fiction, Soft Sci-Fi, Low/Cozy Fantasy, Romance, and more.

    I also accept select nonfiction manuscripts: Narrative Nonfiction, Essay Collections, Popular Psych/Social Psych, and other books meant for a general audience.

    If your project doesn’t fit into one of these tidy categories, reach out anyway! I would love to hear about your work and see how I can help.

  • My calendar fluctuates, and can often book up 2-3 months in advance. That said, please reach out if you have a tight deadline or specific timeline in mind—I can often make it work!

  • AI tools can be useful in the research phase of any book, including fiction. But the use of AI to generate an actual manuscript gives me pause (to say the least). As a rule, I only accept manuscripts written by humans.

    And regarding my own work: I do not use AI to edit.

  • I do not—but if needed, I’ll happily refer you to excellent copy editors and proofreaders in my professional network.