Here’s what to expect.
A lot of authors aren’t sure what working with an editor actually looks like. Here are the usual steps:
1. You reach out
Send me a message through the contact form, just a short description of your project and where you’re at with it. There’s no wrong way to start this conversation.
2. The first conversation
Let’s talk! If you are close enough (Calgary), let’s meet for coffee (actually, I prefer tea!) and get to know each other. If you are far away, I’ll invite you to a video chat. I like to ask lots of questions and let you share about your project, your goals and how you got to this point.
I can give you my initial thoughts and a recommendation for which type of edit fits your project. This is also a chance for you to ask questions.
3. A sample edit
If we are both happy to move forward, I will ask you to provide me with your manuscript or a portion of it— my preference is a about 10 pages in the middle of the book. I will do a sample edit on this portion of your work so you know what to expect. From this edit I also get the information I need to provide you with a written estimate. The estimate outlines the type of edit, the number of hours, and the cost.
4. The contract
Before any work begins, I have a simple editing contract that needs to be signed. It protects your work and mine, and sets out the full scope of what’s been agreed including costs and timelines. A deposit of one-third of the estimate is required to begin your edit.
5. The edit
Developmental Edit: For a developmental edit, I will create a chapter by chapter breakdown. This breakdown is the best way to assess a book and see if it all flows, look for story and character arcs and just generally do a high level look. I also look for plot holes and consistency. I take all the information and write a memo to author with all my feedback and suggestions. I provide the chapter breakdown and the memo to you.
This edit is the first edit, and often authors work through the suggestions and then come back for a line edit.
Line Edit: I work through your manuscript carefully, tracking every change in Microsoft Word. You will be able to see exactly what I changed and why. I also make lots of comment or queries as we call them in our world. Changes I make are highly recommended whereas queries are things I’m not sure about, whether it be wording, clarity or just a suggested change.
6. Your manuscript comes back
When the document comes back to you, you are in control. I make suggestions based on what readers want and need. But you are the author and you make all the decisions. Accept what resonates, reject what doesn’t. The more you trust your editor, the better your writing will be!