Frequently Asked Questions

For copyediting, line editing, and proofreading, I work with most fiction and nonfiction genres. My focus is on polishing your manuscript while preserving your unique voice. I carefully review grammar, punctuation, spelling, syntax, consistency, and clarity, and I cross-check facts and references when appropriate to help ensure your manuscript is accurate and publication-ready.For manuscript evaluations and developmental editing, I specialize in children's literature, including middle grade, young adult, and new adult fiction. I especially enjoy working on genres such as contemporary, fantasy, romantasy, dystopian, science fiction, paranormal romance, mystery, and adventure. Every story is different, so I tailor my feedback to your goals, taking an in-depth look at plot, pacing, characterization, world-building, and authorial voice to help strengthen your manuscript while staying true to your creative vision.

That’s completely okay—I can help you sort it out. Start by reviewing my services page to see what each option includes. Then, when you fill out the contact form, choose the service that feels closest to your project. I’ll review your goals, scope, and sample pages, then point you toward the best place to begin. If your project needs are still a little fuzzy, we’ll untangle it together.

Freelance editorial rates within the industry tend to vary depending on the type of service, scope of work, and timeline. I usually charge by the word when editing and evaluating full manuscripts. An hourly rate is typically charged for proofreading services and smaller editorial and website-related projects. My rates are in line with the standard industry rates as proposed by the Editorial Freelancers Association.

An estimate is free and based on the needs of your project, which are outlined in the convenient contact form. In order to give clients an accurate estimate, I consult with you on your intended goals and thoroughly review the entire project and scope of work beforehand.

Because of confidentiality and copyright concerns, I cannot share samples of my work completed for other clients. But I am happy to include with my initial assessment a sample edit of your work up to 1,000 words.

For manuscripts and creative copy, a Microsoft Word Document (.docx) is required. I typically edit using Track Changes. For content that requires proofreading a PDF, I edit and make comments using Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.

Style Guides:I primarily edit according to The Chicago Manual of Style (18th edition), the publishing industry's standard style guide for fiction and most trade nonfiction. I use the online edition to ensure I'm referencing the most current guidance.Dictionary:For spelling, hyphenation, capitalization, and word usage, I follow the Merriam-Webster Dictionary (online), which is the dictionary recommended by The Chicago Manual of Style.

Your manuscript is always edited by me—not by AI.I do not upload client manuscripts to public AI platforms such as ChatGPT or other generative AI tools to edit or analyze your book. Every editorial suggestion, query, and recommendation is based on my professional experience and judgment.I do occasionally use Draftsmith, a private AI tool developed specifically for professional editors. Unlike public AI platforms, Draftsmith is designed for editorial workflows and can provide suggestions to support the editing process. However, it does not replace my expertise. I carefully review every suggestion and make the final decision on every edit that appears in your manuscript.I also use PerfectIt, an industry-standard consistency checker that is not AI-based. It helps identify issues such as capitalization, hyphenation, abbreviations, and style inconsistencies, allowing me to deliver a polished and consistent manuscript.When you work with me, you can be confident that every edit reflects the careful attention and expertise of a human editor.