Service Definitions

Proofreading

Proofreading cannot be scheduled in advance. We have several proofreaders, so the wait time for the proofread to begin is less than two weeks from submission.

For a book under 100k words, allow up to one week for the actual proofread.

For a book over 100k words, allow up to two weeks for the actual proofread.

All manuscripts must be approved for this service if purchased à la carte.

Proofreaders correct:

Spelling

Punctuation

Capitalization

Basic grammar

Proofreading is generally NOT a replacement for a good editor. Our proofreaders only look for basic errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Higher level issues, such as dangling participles and modifiers, are things that should be corrected by an editor prior to the proofreading phase.

We do not accept books that are in need of an editor rather than a proofreader, as we feel that would be doing the author a disservice. It also puts unnecessary stress on a proofreader because it’s difficult to correct basic errors when sentences are inherently incorrect.

That does not mean we only accept books that have gone through an external editor. If we can’t tell the difference between a self-edited book and a professionally edited book, then we will gladly proofread it.

While a proofreader may comment on a plot hole or inconsistency, content is not something covered in proofreading.

We are not responsible for formatting issues.

All proofreading is done using Track Changes in Microsoft Word.

Copy Edit

One full copy edit of the manuscript using Track Changes and Commentary

Copy Editor will correct all basic grammar and punctuation. Copy editor may leave comments for advanced grammar issues that require rewrites of sentences, but this is not the focus.

At the editor’s discretion: Plot holes or inconsistencies may be noted in comments. Word repetition may be highlighted.

One-Pass Line Edit

One full line edit of the manuscript using Track Changes and Commentary

One additional document noting any larger scope storyline, writing style, character issues, explanations of grammar issues, etc.

Line Editor will correct or comment on all grammar and punctuation errors and explain in detail ways to improve writing skills and sentence structure.

Deluxe Line Edit

One full line edit of the manuscript using Track Changes and Commentary

One additional document noting any larger scope storyline, writing style, character issues, etc.

Edits of your changes, with author using Track Changes for this step. (Extra fees may be incurred if more than 5,000 words of additional material, especially material not suggested by the editor, is added and/or excessive changes occur. Author will be notified if this is necessary upon submission of changes.)

Line Editor will correct or comment on all grammar and punctuation errors and explain in detail ways to improve writing skills and sentence structure.

Edit of Book Description

Content Edit

Authors will receive:

Comments in manuscript pointing out specific areas for improvement

A Content Notes document with global issues and commentary

Editor will provide feedback on:

Character development

Storyline

Plot

Pacing

Description

Occasionally, the editor may point out issues with writing style.

Content editing does NOT include corrections for grammar, spelling, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.

Beta Read