What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
For anything under 2,000 words I charge a flat fee of $195.
Under 5,000 words, I charge 5 cents per word
5,000 to under 20,000, 3.5 cents per word
20,000 +, 2.5 cents per word
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We'd start with Thumbtack text or a call, to really discuss what you want in an editor, so I can cater to your wishes as an author. If it's a short piece, I'll take it from there, edit it and send it back in a timely fashion.
If a longer piece, such as a novel or memoir, I am happy to edit the first two pages for free, and with no obligation, so you can get to know my editing style. If you choose to move forward, then we could do a Zoom chat to talk in detail about what you are looking for. Then I'll take your manuscript and do a thorough first edit!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a certified copy editor. As well, I've written many novels and memoirs and have gone through the process many times as an author! (Yes, everyone needs editing, even editors!) I've been a board member and editor for Napa Valley Writers, numerous critique groups, and many full novels. I will treat your book with the honor and respect it deserves.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
Writing, writing, writing, and writing! And having GREAT editors, professors, and critique groups to work with to really hone my skills. I fell in love with the editing process and got my copy-editing certification. Now I am delighted to help others with their writing experience!
What types of customers have you worked with?
Novelists, non-fiction writers, self-help authors, professors, poets, memoir writers, historians, short story writers, bloggers, public speakers, essayists, brides/grooms/father-mother of the bride/groom needing to tweak wedding vows and speeches, website owners, and more!
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
A delightful YA fantasy with fairies, wit and "whodunnits", about six weeks.
Another was a eulogy a client wanted turned into a poem, and she needed it the next morning. She gave a list of attributes, some prose, and a title suggestion. It was a beautiful project that nearly brought me to tears, and the client was very happy. Moments like that make me very grateful to be an editor.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
You are sharing your baby! This is a great honor for any editor. You never have to take advice--in the end, you are the boss. BUT you do want your baby to grow up big and strong. Sometimes that means revising a smidgeon, rearranging here and there for clarity, and having a fresh pair of eyes and as objective an opinion as possible. We both want the same thing--a polished, excellent book.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
REGARDING BOOK AUTHORS:
Is the book finished? If no: You need to finish it first, or look for a ghost-writer (which I am not.)
If yes: Are there any awkward parts you are a bit stuck on--maybe you skim over to get to the good part? (Don't worry, I can help with that.) Did you leave anything hanging? Did you do a thorough spellcheck? (I can help with that too!) Do you have a grasp of how to format conversation, indents, paragraphs, add page numbers? (I'm here to help with that too, if need be!) Do you feel the need to "explain" anything? These are all little things that can easily be fixed, for a smooth, amazing read!
REGARDING SHORT PROJECTS:
Is this a school project? If so, please note that I am happy to check grammar and spelling, smooth things out, and give suggestions, but I cannot do any actual writing for you.