Fiction Editing
Every writer's needs are unique when it comes to the editing process. I offer two different services, and depending on where you are in the process will determine if one or both services will be helpful on your writing journey. If you have a completed or almost completed draft of your novel and are unsure about major elements like characters, plotlines, pacing, and setting - check out my manuscript evaluation offering. If you are later in the drafting process or want to get more granular feedback on scene and dialogue structure in addition to the big picture developmental elements, then a full-on developmental edit may be best for you!
Manuscript Evaluation is a great fit if...
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You have a finished draft of your book, but you feel stuck on what to do next
Have an almost finished draft of your book and need help wrapping up plotlines or puzzling out what is missing
You know you need to rework things in your manuscript but are having trouble pinpointing the aspects that need to be addressed or don’t know the best way to tackle them
You’ve received beta reader feedback and feel lost or overwhelmed by it
You want a more economical option to receive feedback from an editor before going all in
What’s Included In Your Manuscript Evaluation
A big-picture analysis of your story, including deep dives into plot, character development, structure, world-building, genre, and pacing.
An editorial letter organizing the evaluation feedback and providing actionable steps for the revision process
A follow-up call to discuss feedback, allow you to ask questions, and review the next steps for your manuscript
A clear understanding of the strengths and opportunities in your manuscript so you can feel confident in the next steps to take for the revision process.
The Result of Your Manuscript Evaluation
The Investment
$.015/word for a Manuscript Evaluation
"Leslie was easy to work with. She was prompt at communicating, and did a thorough edit of my manuscript. Went above and beyond to ensure that the work was completed to a great standard. Was open to feedback and implemented all requests without any issue. I have engaged Leslie in further editing contracts, and highly recommend her to anyone seeking an editor." Sandra I., Willow Creek Series (Romance)
You have a finished draft of your story and feel ready to dig into all the details of the revision process
You want in-line comments on each page of your manuscript pinpointing exactly what needs addressed
You want detailed explanations of how to tackle each issue with specific examples
You started querying and keep getting rejections
You want a more personalized approach to your manuscript, focusing on the type of edit it truly needs
Developmental Editing is a great fit if...
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What’s Included In Your Developmental Edit
A big picture analysis of your story, including deep dives into plot, character development, structure, world-building, genre, and pacing
In-line comments on each page identifying what specifically should be addressed, including scene structure, realistic dialogue, info-dumping, setting immersion, and showing vs. telling
An editorial letter organizing the evaluation feedback and providing actionable steps for the revision process
A follow-up call to discuss feedback, allow you to ask questions, and review the next steps for your manuscript
Additional resources and exercises to help you improve your writing craft
The Result of Your Developmental Edit
A detailed path for revising each page of your manuscript that is tailored directly to the needs of your project.
The Investment
$0.03/word for developmental editing
FAQs
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A full manuscript evaluation takes roughly 4 weeks and a developmental edit can take up to 8 weeks to complete once I start work. I am always rotating through projects, so there may be a delay in getting on my schedule depending on how many I am working on at the time. Once I receive the manuscript, I will give a more accurate view of an estimated completion date.
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I work in the realm of fiction and my favorite genres to work in are horror, fantasy, science fiction, thrillers, and romance. I work on stories for adult, new adult, and young adult audiences.
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Yes! I love the short story form and would be excited to support you in this way.
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No, I do not offer services to correct spelling and grammar. What you are looking for is a copy editor or proofreader, which is generally the last step in the writing process.
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Absolutely! Email me via my contact page and I’d be happy to answer your questions, and how I can help you achieve your goals.