Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I pay an editor? My writing group can give me feedback.
Getting reads from people whose opinions you respect is a great idea. Whether they are writers themselves, or just avid readers, the feedback you get from another set of eyes can strengthen your book. But a professional editor’s feedback is informed by knowledge of the publishing industry, what agents and editors are looking for, and what kinds of revision will make it more compelling, effective, and appealing to readers.
But I’m planning to self-publish, so I don’t need an editor—right?
Writers planning to self-publish must become the project managers for their own books. A wise project manager knows she can’t—and shouldn’t try to—do everything herself. Instead, she must assemble a team of experts who can help her put together a polished finished product. A reliable, experienced editor should be at the top of the list.
What is a “Partial”?
In industry speak, this simply meals a partial manuscript. The length varies from agent to agent, typically the first 30-60 pages of your draft. The agent will specify what they want, so be sure to follow those directions closely. Click here to learn more about why agents request partials and how they evaluate them.
How do I know exactly what you’re going to do for me?
Before work begins, you will receive a proposal spelling out all the details of the project, including the schedule, fee, and definitions of the services to be provided. We can resolve any questions you have at that time, before work begins.
How does payment work?
Once you have accepted the proposal spelling out the details of the project, you will receive an invoice that allows you to make an electronic payment.
Can you get me an agent?
Researching agents and following the steps of the submission process is up to you. What I can do is help you get your manuscript in tip-top shape so you have the best possible chance of finding representation.
I just know my book is going to sell. Isn’t editing it my future publisher’s job?
In the good old days of book publishing, authors formed partnerships with their editors at the publishing houses, working with them to shape a first draft into a finished book. But things have changed. Book publishers employ far fewer editors, and those editors are charged with working on dozens of books per year on a very tight schedule. At the same time, the number of submissions has skyrocketed. As a result, agents and editors have little time to help potential authors through the developmental stages of putting a book together—which means the editing has to happen before you send it out.