Strengthen your manuscript
Make your story shine with developmental editing.
One Edit To Rule Them All
FINE TUNE
- Content and structure
- Pace and flow
- Storytelling
- Readability
- Point of view consistency
- Choice of tense
- Genre conventions
- Market fit
- Author voice
Like Frodo, you’re about to embark on the next stage of your writing adventure… editing. Developmental editing is the first part of your quest, followed by line editing, copy editing, and proofreading (let’s leave those for a later day).
But, have no fear. I’ll be your Gandalf waving my magic pen around to make your story and words shine. And I promise to give feedback in a supportive and constructive way.
Developmental Editing
Buckle up. A full manuscript edit is a true VIP editing experience. You’ll get notes on every freaking page of your manuscript with detailed developmental editing and line editing. I’ll also ask probing questions to guide your revisions and help you work through sticking points. Basically, you won’t be left guessing what needs to be done.
Let’s get your manuscript polished and ready to share with the world! I use Microsoft Track Changes to make and explain edits and suggestions. You can easily view my comments and edits in Google Docs.
A full manuscript review includes:
- Comprehensive developmental edits on topics mentioned above
- Minor line edits to clean up working sections
- Rewriting, breaking up, and streamlining sentences
- Feedback on content and readability
- Advice on transitions and structure
- Suggestions for adding, removing, or moving text
- Notes, edits, and comments on every single page
- Action steps on what to do next
- 60-minute follow up call to go over the feedback
- And much more
Developmental editing starts at $0.039 USD per word (6-week turnaround)
*A 50% nonrefundable deposit is due when booking and 50% upon completion of the edit
How It Works
Choosing an editor can be challenging. We have to mesh well if you’re going to trust the process and feedback. That’s where a sample edit comes into play. You’ll know what to expect from working with an editor, grow as a writer, and gain momentum from what you learned.
This lets me know how much time and attention your manuscript needs so I can provide you with an accurate quote. If you’re earlier in your journey, I might suggest doing some self-editing or getting a beta reading first, which will save you money in the long run. I’ll always be honest about the best course of action, even if that means putting off working with me.
You’ll receive a developmental edit of 1,000 words, a one-page editorial letter, up to 5 comments/ edits per page of your manuscript, and a 20-minute follow-up call with me. If you love your edit, I will provide you with a quote for the whole manuscript, and we can get you into my editing queue.
I use Microsoft Track Changes to make and explain edits and suggestions. You can easily view my comments and edits in Google Docs.
*Limit one sample edit per person.
“I received general feedback and specific edits from Rachel, and I was impressed. From her overall tone (upbeat, supportive, honest) to her keen eye, Rachel did not disappoint. I can highly recommend her to anyone wishing to improve their craft and reach their publishing goals.
The hardest part for me was getting started, and Rachel gently pushed me and offered me a structure to get going - and not to get stuck overworking any single chapter or paragraph (a big challenge for me!). I would have never started, let alone finished, without Rachel’s thoughtful, kind, and direct assistance. If you’re looking for a Method and Moxie, Rachel can help you.
Rachel helped me transform my lectures and research into a book I've been using to promote my brain wave technology.
Besides being an amazing writer she strives to constantly understand how her work is impacting the end goal. She supports those around her pushing them to improve.
FAQs
I have editing clients writing on a variety topics including memoir, health, personal growth, self-help, spiritual, business, career development, writing, technology, romance, mystery, paranormal, and urban fantasy.
- Beta reading 2-weeks
- Developmental editing takes 6-weeks
- Copy editing takes 4-weeks
This is the suggested order for editing services:
- Beta reading
- Developmental editing
- Line Editing
- Copy editing
- Proofreading
I have a waitlist most of the time ranging from two to six months depending on the service.
I strongly recommend you look at your writing schedule and plan ahead. As a bonus knowing you have a critique or edit coming up can be incentive to finish your writing.
But remember there are no refunds for cancellations. I can shift you to my next available time slot for the service you select.
If you have a tight deadline, I might be able to assist you for a rush fee. Reach out and we’ll chat.
I hear you. We all want to be mindful of our money. Developmental editing takes a boat load of time. Think of it like getting burger patty tossed on the grill at McDonalds vs sitting down at a five star restaurant where everything is made from scratch by trained chefs.
For a standard developmental edit, I’ll spend 40-60 hours working on your book. It involves taking copious notes, using spreadsheets, making notes, some editing in the document, tracking storylines/ characters/ setting, and writing a 10+ page editorial letter.
As you can see, developmental editing is truly the five star experience.
Final payment is due before you’ll receive editing files, feedback, or calls. Files are sent within one business day of receiving the final payment (excluding holidays).
No one can guarantee your book will be a bestseller, secure you an agent, or land you a publishing deal. If they do… run for the hills. There are zero absolutes in writing and publishing.
US Clients:
- Stripe
- PayPal
International Clients:
- Wise
A 50% nonrefundable deposit is due on booking and the remainder is due upon completion of the review.
I use Stripe and PayPal for invoices which may offer an installment plan. These plans are offered through the payment platforms, not Book Bound Journey.
Yes, we will both sign a contract when you book a service that lays out the terms of the service, payment schedule, and NDA.
A 50% nonrefundable deposit is required for editing services. No refunds are offered for cancellations or completed services.