FAQ
How much do your services cost?
The cost of each service varies from project to project, which is why I offer a free consultation to potential clients. This gives me the opportunity to find out what you really need and what you want, and to get all the details I need to give you a cost estimate. I know that it can be frustrating to try to choose between freelancers without the simple measure of expense, but please understand that there are too many variables to simply provide a list of fees: I've done small projects for fifty dollars and large projects for several thousand dollars. Contact me for a free, no-obligation consultation and I will happily discuss your options with you in more detail. It won't take long.
 
How long will you take to complete a project?
It depends on what kind of project we're working on together. To give you an idea, it takes me approximately two weeks to edit an average-length book manuscript (approximately 200-300 pages in standard industry format, which is double-spaced with 1 to 1 ½ inch margins using a 12 pt. Times New Roman or similar font). Shorter projects naturally require less time. However, I am often booked several weeks to months in advance, so that may affect the turn-around time of your project.
 
What if we don't live in the same region?
One of the things I love most about freelancing is that we don't need to live anywhere near each other for me to work with you. I have had clients who live down the street and others from as far away as Australia and Finland! The majority of my work is paperless—I do all my editing and writing using Microsoft Word, and I coach and consult using a combination of email and phone calls. We'll figure out what combination works best for your situation.
 
What kind of projects do you take on?
I have a wealth of experience working on both fiction and nonfiction projects and can work in nearly any adult trade category for books. I am also experienced with marketing collateral of varying types. In short, if you need it written, I can write it; if you need it edited, I can edit it. A few caveats: I enjoy working on young adult material that is appropriate for late teen and adult readers, but I do not work with children's literature (I'm simply not well-read enough in the category to give you the kind of feedback you deserve). I do not edit poetry. I cannot do translations or work in foreign languages. Finally, I am not a fact-checker or research assistant: if your project requires someone with special knowledge of any science or technical field, I am probably not the right freelancer for you. Please see my Services page for more information.
 
How do you handle payments? Do you require payment in full before beginning?
My policy is half on signing and half on delivery. For very large projects, I may work with you to create a more flexible payment plan. Once we come to an agreement about a cost estimate, I will send you a contract to sign and return to me with your first payment to reserve your spot in the schedule. I will invoice you for the second half when I send you the completed project. I accept personal checks, money orders, bank transfers, and credit card payments. Bank transfers and credit card payments are via PayPal.
 
I'm ready to submit/publish. Can you just edit my manuscript for spelling and grammatical errors?
What you're describing is copyediting. I have many years' experience as a copyeditor and can help you do a final polish of your manuscript, article, marketing material, or other content if that is all you require. However, if you hire me to copyedit your work, please understand that this service is at the technical level only, tackling issues of clarity, organization, spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Do not expect general feedback more appropriately suited to a consultation or developmental editing service.
 
I need an agent. Will you represent me?
Though I'd be honored if you trusted me enough to represent you, I am not a literary agent, nor do I have any interest in becoming one. There are many great agents out there looking for you right now—try browsing a copy of the most recent Literary Market Place at your local library or visit any number of websites, such as the Association of Authors' Representatives. The Writer's Digest Guide To Literary Agents is also a good resource: my article on platforms is featured in their 2009 edition.
 
Do you advise on other aspects of book production such as layout, cover art, etc.?
Though I don't provide book design services, I often work with trusted graphic artists who specialize in publication design, as well as web professionals who can help you get a website together. Please contact me for referrals. If you're looking for a package deal that includes editorial assistance as well as design or website work, we may be able to offer you a discount.
 
How do I know you're the right editor for me?
Please take some time to peruse my website. You'll find testimonials from dozens of clients who have worked with me on a variety of project types, as well as information about my professional experience. Contact me for a free consultation: I'll be happy to speak with you to address any questions or concerns you might have that aren't answered in this FAQ and/or put you in touch with a reference.