Frequently Asked Questions
I know you likely have questions about the editing process, and my mission is to make this journey as transparent and supportive as possible. Here are some of the most common questions I receive.
If you don't find what you're looking for, please feel free to reach out.
What is developmental editing, and how is it different from other types of editing?
Developmental editing is the "big picture" phase of editing. It focuses on the core of your book—the structure, the message, and the overall flow. It's about ensuring your manuscript has a solid, compelling foundation before you move on to the finer details.
In contrast, copyediting focuses on the sentence level, addressing grammar, word choice, and consistency. Proofreading is the final check for typos and spelling errors right before publication.
Think of it this way: I help you build and refine the house's blueprint, while other editors are focused on painting the walls and cleaning the windows.
What specific genres or topics within non-fiction do you specialize in?
I specialize in non-fiction books that are rooted in a personal journey or a deeply-held purpose.
My expertise lies in helping authors write on topics such as:
•Memoir & Personal Narrative
•Narrative Non-Fiction
•Exploring unconventional theories and non-mainstream perspectives
•Spiritual & Self-Help
•Wellness & Mindfulness
•Poetry
Can you explain what your trauma-informed approach means for me as an author?
My approach is built on the understanding that the stories you tell carry a lot of emotional weight. It means our collaboration is founded on trust and respect, where I am committed to reducing the emotional burden of the revision process. My feedback is designed to uplift and support your unique vision, always honoring your voice and your pace, so you can feel empowered and confident as you bring your book to life.
How long does a typical developmental edit take?
That's a great question, and the honest answer is that the timeline varies from project to project. A typical developmental edit can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. The final timeframe depends on a few key factors: the total word count, the complexity of your subject matter, and the depth of work required. During our initial consultation, once I’ve had a chance to review your manuscript, I will be able to give you a much more precise timeline for your specific project.
How do you charge for your services?
My process is designed to be collaborative and supportive every step of the way. It typically looks like this:
1.Initial Consultation: We start with a conversation to discuss your project, your vision, and how my services can best support you.
2.Manuscript Review: I review a sample of your manuscript to assess its unique needs and determine the scope of the work.
3.Project Proposal: Based on the review, I provide a detailed proposal that outlines the services, the estimated timeline, and the preliminary cost range.
4.The Editing Process: Once you approve the proposal, we begin the collaborative process. I provide feedback and guidance, and we maintain open communication to ensure you feel empowered and in control of your work.
5.Final Delivery: You receive your edited manuscript, complete with all my notes, suggestions, and a comprehensive editorial letter that ties everything together.
What does your overall process for working with a client look like?
My services are billed at an hourly rate starting at $35 USD per hour and may be increased based on depth and complexity. Because every project is unique, I am not able to give a final cost up front. The number of hours required can change depending on what we discover during the editing process. However, after our initial consultation and review of your manuscript, I will provide a preliminary range for the total cost. This way, you’ll have a clear understanding of the potential investment before we begin our work together.
What if my manuscript isn't quite finished yet? Can we still work together?
Yes, absolutely. It's very common to need guidance before your manuscript is completely finished. I can work with you on the chapters you have ready, providing feedback on the core concepts, structure, and overall flow. This can give you a strong foundation to build upon and a clear path forward. We can establish a phased plan that allows us to work together at your own pace, ensuring you feel confident and supported as you complete your manuscript.
What is included in the final deliverable I'll receive?
You will receive a comprehensive package that includes the edited manuscript and a detailed editorial report.
•The Edited Manuscript: Your manuscript will be delivered as a Microsoft Word document via Google Docs. It will contain in-line comments and tracked changes that provide specific, actionable feedback on structure, flow, and clarity.
•The Editorial Report: This is a separate, comprehensive document that serves as your roadmap for revision. It includes an in-depth analysis of your manuscript's strengths and weaknesses, along with overall guidance and specific suggestions for how to approach your revisions.
•A Follow-Up Consultation: After you've had a chance to review the deliverables, we will schedule a 30-minute follow-up call to discuss the feedback, answer any questions you may have, and help you create a confident plan for your next steps.
