Got a great cast of characters but a weak plot? Or a great premise but a confusing timeline? Are you halfway through a novel, memoir, or screenplay with no idea how to finish it? Developmental editing (otherwise known as “substantive editing”) is a good option for authors who want professional direction and expertise on a finished first draft OR a work-in-progress. You will have the opportunity to ask follow-up questions and re-submit material for a second read at a discounted rate. Samples are available upon request.
 

FOR NOVELS, MEMOIRS, & GENERAL NONFICTION


Developmental Editing Type A: Editorial Letter
Typical quotes for full-length manuscripts range from $1,350 - $2,500.
This service is also known as an "Extensive Manuscript Critique." Your editor reads your full manuscript and compiles feedback in an extensive editorial letter, usually ranging from 6-10 single-spaced pages. The editorial letter covers feedback on a range of issues, including any or all of the following: pacing; concept; hook; voice; character development; pacing; flow of narrative; transitions; plot; structure; point of view; dialogue; audience; potential market. This service does NOT include line edits or comments made directly into the manuscript.


Developmental Editing Type B: Editorial Letter PLUS Feedback in Margins
Typical quotes for full-length manuscripts range from $1,650 - $3,500
This is the same service described above with the addition of comments, questions, and suggestions inserted into the margins throughout your manuscript. The margin comments are meant to expand upon the content of the editorial letter and provide an extra layer of depth and specificity. If you are looking for an editing service that most closely resembles what you would get from an in-house editor at a big-five publishing company, this is the service for you. 

FOR EVERYTHING ELSE


Developmental Editing for Screenplays
Typical quotes range from $350 - $1,250.
Your editor will read your screenplay draft and compile feedback in an editorial letter ranging from 5-7 single-spaced pages. The letter will cover feedback on a range of issues, including: pacing; transitions; voice; plot; structure; dialogue; character development; audience; potential market. This service does NOT include line edits made via track changes.


Developmental Editing for Poetry Chapbooks
Typical quotes range from $250 - $1,250.
Your editor will read your poetry chapbook and provide comments in the margins of the draft as well as a 1-2 page letter summarizing his/her feedback on the collection. This service does NOT include line edits made via track changes. 


Developmental Editing for Short Story Collections
For individual short stories, typical quotes range from $125 - $375 per story (depending on length). Discounts are available for collections that include four or more stories.
Your editor will read your collection of stories and provide comments in the margins of the draft as well as a 1-3 page letter summarizing his/her feedback on the collection as a whole. This service does NOT include line edits made via track changes. 


All services above include one round of follow-up questions via email or 30-minute phone call.