I'm a freelance editor working with independent authors to give their work that final sparkle, ensuring it stands out from the crowd.
Browse through my book reviews to get an idea of the type of insight I can bring to your work, and the level of honesty with which I communicate.
I hold a degree in Law and English Literature, a combination which gives me a highly professional analytical approach, coupled with a streak of creativity and invention.
I offer a substantive editing service: I'll take a close look at your plot, pacing, character development, narrative and anything else that makes your book tick. I'll ask you questions, suggest alterations and point out issues to get you thinking about what you want your work to say.
Many editors tied to publishing houses will get you to change your book to make it suit their particular tastes, I have no interest whatsoever in doing likewise: this isn't about me, it's about you. I want to work with you to make sure your book is strong and I will always act to ensure your work keeps its integrity. And because I know how important your work is to you, I will not make any changes that can't be undone if you disagree with me.
For your fee you will get a report on your work touching on points including:
Issues around the structure of your book.
Themes: any which have been underdeveloped; scenes which are too short/missing; any missed opportunities. Conversely I will also comment on themes/scenes which have been overdeveloped and lack subtlety, or overshadow the rest of the work.
Your characters: noting whether they are original and fully developed, with lively and refreshing dialogue.
Any cliches or stereotypes which may affect the impact of your work.
Any issues with Point of View.
Plot: whether or not it is original and engaging. Whether subplots are well integrated and relevant.
Whether you have the right mix of tension/conflict exposition/action description/dialogue.
Any sections which are flat and don't contribute to your work.
Anything else I pick up.
I will also review spelling and grammar, point out any repetitive phrases or words and pick up other minor issues around style.
I offer a flexible service, so don't feel that you need a completed manuscript before bringing me onboard. I can support you at any stage of your work, and offer opinions on various aspects of your novel or short stories including:
A full critique of your finished manuscript
A review of your first few chapters
A review of a key segment of your book
A review of the first chapter
A review of a single short story
A review of a collection of short stories
If you like my proposition so far then please have a look at pricing on the "Editorial Rates" page, then drop me an email and we'll talk further.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Emma
