Developmental editing addresses big-picture storytelling. An attentive read culminates in a written analysis of your manuscript's strengths and weaknesses, along with solutions. Your manuscript will be marked with heavy comments addressing pace, continuity, plot, character, voice, etc.
Includes: in-text comments, in-depth edit letter with analysis and action plan, one-hour video or phone consultation Starting at $0.025/word Get a quote. Add a re-read report for feedback on your implemented edits: $0.004/word |
Line editing involves changes at the sentence and paragraph levels to improve the flow and impact of the prose. This heavy, low-level editing addresses issues related to clarity, consistency, and concision, while maintaining and highlighting the work's original voice. Line editing emphasizes craft above all else and is crucial to bringing prose up to a professional level.
Includes: edits at the sentence and paragraph levels, delivered using Microsoft Word Track Changes |
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Put your manuscript through its paces with a full edit. The process begins with high-level editing and moves down to low-level editing, to strengthen the story and polish the prose. A full edit produces a publication-ready manuscript. Includes: developmental edit, re-read report, line edit, proofread
Proofreading is the final stage of the editing process. It addresses grammatical, spelling, and typographical errors. Proofreading includes changes to make the prose objectively correct and does not address style or substantive issues. Proofreading is available only for manuscripts that meet an acceptable level of cleanness.
Includes: edits for objective correctness, delivered using Microsoft Word Track Changes 
Make a big impression with polished, attention-grabbing submission materials.
Includes: an in-depth critique and edit of your query letter, synopsis, and first ten pages, plus feedback on your revised query |
This is a budget-friendly option for authors who need feedback on the high-level elements of their work. After the critique, you will have a thorough understanding of your manuscript and story, along with a plan for tackling revisions. For deeper overall feedback, authors can pursue a manuscript critique prior to developmental editing.
Includes: a written critique of the manuscript's strengths and weaknesses 
Writing a strong query letter is a skill that requires practice. A professional touch will elevate your query letter and help it stand out from the crowd.
Includes: full critique and edit of query letter, with feedback on the revised version |
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Individual Coaching SessionsGet individual attention with personalized coaching sessions. During one-on-one video or audio sessions, we will plan the next steps in your writing process or career, analyze your work in progress, and discuss tools you need to become a better writer and editor. Each session is personalized to your needs, and supplemental editing and feedback is available.
$120 per hour
Plan your session. |
Query CoachingQuery coaching includes a preliminary review of your materials, a 60-minute session to write your query letter together, and a 30-minute revision session.
$200 flat
Book your sessions.
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My Editing Philosophy:
Treat each manuscript as I would like my own to be treated.
I am ruthless because you need me to be. As an editor, I am able to view the work objectively and to make difficult decisions. I'm not remembering the night I fell in love with my protagonist or the morning I dreamed up the perfect setting. I'm judging the work based on its effectiveness—the way a reader will. I am here to make the work better, and each and every change I make should result in improvement.
But I understand it's your baby. I know you put in endless hours. You dreamed about your characters and reminisced about their pasts. I know you have stories about them that never made it to the page, and I know your work is an extension of yourself. That's why I tell you the positives too. I won't hide my excitement when I run across that sparkling gem of a sentence. I'm not here to coddle you, but I am here to encourage you. I strive to make each author's editorial experience a positive one. Our relationship should foster your talent and nurture your passion.
The author-editor relationship should foster your talent and nurture your passion.
I work with many genres, and one of my favorite parts of editing is reading outside my "safe" genres, the ones I instinctively pick off the shelf. As a result, I will never push my personal agenda on your work. I maintain open lines of communication, and I strive to develop a clear picture of your vision before beginning the editing process. If my reactions as a reader do not align with your vision, I know we need to make changes.
Taking the plunge into freelance editing is one of the most rewarding choices I have made to date. I am proud of each and every piece I have worked with. There is no better feeling than returning a manuscript to its author, knowing that it is improved. I have worked with incredibly talented writers and take immense pride in being part of their books' journeys. For me, the author-editor relationship does not end when the final edits are complete. I am always available for help, advice, and to share and promote your successfully published work.
Taking the plunge into freelance editing is one of the most rewarding choices I have made to date. I am proud of each and every piece I have worked with. There is no better feeling than returning a manuscript to its author, knowing that it is improved. I have worked with incredibly talented writers and take immense pride in being part of their books' journeys. For me, the author-editor relationship does not end when the final edits are complete. I am always available for help, advice, and to share and promote your successfully published work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need an editor?
Even writers who are ruthless editors of their own work are often too close to make necessary decisions. An editor is able to be entirely objective and act in the best interest of the manuscript. While improving the manuscript is an editor's main goal, I believe the lessons that studious writers learn as a result are even more important. Editors can identify weaknesses in style and technique, which help writers improve their craft.
Do you work with my genre?
One of my favorite parts of editing is reading books I might not pick from the shelf. I have worked with genres including romance, horror, western, inspirational, sci-fi, memoir, historical, upmarket, fantasy, crime thriller, adventure, and suspense.
That said, I do a little happy dance whenever I get literary, suspense, or horror. Some other favorite genres include sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and thriller. No matter the genre, I'm always up for a character-driven story featuring characters with agency and depth. I get extra excited about stories that blend genres.
I specialize in adult fiction, but I have worked with several YA authors and continue to accept YA manuscripts. I do not edit children's or middle grade fiction.
I also accept select nonfiction projects. Since I am an athlete and backpacker, these typically involve athletics or the outdoors.
That said, I do a little happy dance whenever I get literary, suspense, or horror. Some other favorite genres include sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, and thriller. No matter the genre, I'm always up for a character-driven story featuring characters with agency and depth. I get extra excited about stories that blend genres.
I specialize in adult fiction, but I have worked with several YA authors and continue to accept YA manuscripts. I do not edit children's or middle grade fiction.
I also accept select nonfiction projects. Since I am an athlete and backpacker, these typically involve athletics or the outdoors.
What are your credentials?
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English from Campbell University. My undergraduate work included intense criticism of both classic and modern literature, which provided a strong foundation for developmental editing. Many of the skills I learned while applying deconstruction and reader response criticism, especially, have been invaluable during editing.
I also studied creative writing at the University of Evansville, including a rigorous copyediting class (during which I promised myself I would never become an editor). Those studies created a strong foundation for my editing skills, and I am so glad I came to view editing in a different light. Editing is an incredibly rewarding job, and I always wake up excited about the day's work.
I'm also a writer myself, with more than forty published pieces in literary magazines, journals, and anthologies. I am represented by Sandy Lu of L. Perkins Agency. I am an active member of the Editorial Freelancers Association, the Knoxville Writers' Guild, and the Tennessee Mountain Writers. I believe in continuous learning and am always working to improve my crafts—both writing and editing.
I also studied creative writing at the University of Evansville, including a rigorous copyediting class (during which I promised myself I would never become an editor). Those studies created a strong foundation for my editing skills, and I am so glad I came to view editing in a different light. Editing is an incredibly rewarding job, and I always wake up excited about the day's work.
I'm also a writer myself, with more than forty published pieces in literary magazines, journals, and anthologies. I am represented by Sandy Lu of L. Perkins Agency. I am an active member of the Editorial Freelancers Association, the Knoxville Writers' Guild, and the Tennessee Mountain Writers. I believe in continuous learning and am always working to improve my crafts—both writing and editing.
Do you have an editing philosophy?
My goal for each project is to align the words on the page with the author's vision. I want to enhance the unique aspects of each project. That means I need to 1. have a discussion with the author about their vision and goals for the manuscript, 2. identify the strongest and most unique aspects of the work, and 3. make or suggest changes that enhance those strengths and remove weak elements and distractions.
Editing is not a science; it's a craft. There is no perfect solution to editing problems. Each choice we make has pros and cons, and it's my job to make thoughtful decisions that minimize the cons and are true to the style and direction of the work.
I will be tough, and I will be honest. But everything I do is in the best interest of the project and the author's growth as a writer. See more about my Editing Philosophy.
Editing is not a science; it's a craft. There is no perfect solution to editing problems. Each choice we make has pros and cons, and it's my job to make thoughtful decisions that minimize the cons and are true to the style and direction of the work.
I will be tough, and I will be honest. But everything I do is in the best interest of the project and the author's growth as a writer. See more about my Editing Philosophy.
Are you the right editor for me?
Go with your gut. Do you feel like we would make a good team? Do you think I have the type of editing style and philosophy your manuscript needs? If not, no hard feelings! I’ll still be excited when your work is published, and I’ll still be here if I can help you along your path.
Bottom line: You have to be comfortable with the person editing your work.
If you have reservations about working with me, or if you have questions about the process, send me an email. I'm always happy to chat. If it turns out we're not a good fit, I will gladly point you in the direction of some trustworthy, professional editors who may be exactly what you're looking for.
Bottom line: You have to be comfortable with the person editing your work.
If you have reservations about working with me, or if you have questions about the process, send me an email. I'm always happy to chat. If it turns out we're not a good fit, I will gladly point you in the direction of some trustworthy, professional editors who may be exactly what you're looking for.
How do you set your rates?
I quote projects with a per-word rate. I offer a variety of editing services, and the rate depends on the type of editing. The typical rate for each service is listed on the Editing Services page. Note that these are typical rates and vary for each project. Before offering a quote, I request sample pages in order to determine the amount of time the edit will require.
I base my per-word rates on industry standards published by the EFA.
I base my per-word rates on industry standards published by the EFA.
What will our author-editor relationship be like?
I have a unique relationship with each client. Every author is different, but a few things remain consistent. I want the editing process to be a learning experience, so I am always happy to explain why I made certain changes or suggestions. If the author enters the editing process hoping for a learning experience, they will find one.
I make a point of developing lasting relationships with my clients. I'm here for your manuscript, but I'm also here for you. I love promoting published projects and supporting clients as they continue their writing journeys. Little in this world makes me happier than seeing a client succeed.
I make a point of developing lasting relationships with my clients. I'm here for your manuscript, but I'm also here for you. I love promoting published projects and supporting clients as they continue their writing journeys. Little in this world makes me happier than seeing a client succeed.
what does your contract say?
The contract details payment specifics, including rates and payment schedules. It also protects your rights as an author. It specifies that your work is to remain private and that you retain copyright ownership at all times during and after the process. It also ensures that copyright ownership of my edits are transferred to you.
What program do you use for editing?
I make all edits in Microsoft Word. I use the comments feature and Track Changes so you can see everything that was changed and accept or reject individual changes. If you have not worked with Track Changes before, I am happy to provide assistance. I also created a short video to introduce clients to Track Changes.
do i need to book in advance?
Yes. My availability varies, but I am typically booked out four to eight months. I post my availability occasionally on my Facebook page, or you can shoot me an email to find out when I'm available.
I do work in shorter projects—such as partials, query critiques, or submission packages—on a case-by-case basis. Also, services through Blue Pen Publishing Services, including cover design and interior layout, are typically available sooner.
I do work in shorter projects—such as partials, query critiques, or submission packages—on a case-by-case basis. Also, services through Blue Pen Publishing Services, including cover design and interior layout, are typically available sooner.
Are you going to hurt my baby?
After editing, your manuscript will look different. That’s what you’re paying me for, right? But every change I make should improve the manuscript. Every. Single. One. I’m not changing things for the heck of it. I want to help you make your work the absolute best it can be. I never edit on autopilot. Before every change I make, I ask myself two questions: Is this going to make the work better? Is this change in keeping with the author’s vision? If the answer to either of those questions is no, I either make no changes, or I leave a comment for the author.
No, I am not going to hurt your baby. I am going to help it grow. I’m a writer too, and I know what it feels like to be edited. I always have the best interest of your manuscript at heart. Butchers use knives, but so do surgeons.
No, I am not going to hurt your baby. I am going to help it grow. I’m a writer too, and I know what it feels like to be edited. I always have the best interest of your manuscript at heart. Butchers use knives, but so do surgeons.
Am i ready for professional editing?
Could you make it any better yourself? If not, you’re ready for professional editing. My job is to pick up where you leave off. Professional editing is not a replacement for self-editing. It’s a deeper level of the editing process.
If you need guidance on the self-editing process, check out my workbook Edit Like a Pro: A Self-Editing Guide. You can also reach out to me through email. I am more than happy to point you in the right direction or give you advice on how to move forward with your personal editing process.
If you need guidance on the self-editing process, check out my workbook Edit Like a Pro: A Self-Editing Guide. You can also reach out to me through email. I am more than happy to point you in the right direction or give you advice on how to move forward with your personal editing process.
What is one thing most writers don't understand about the art of revision?
Like writing, revision is a craft and requires practice. Just as time creates stronger writing abilities, it creates stronger revision skills. There is nothing wrong with spending large amounts of time revising work. In fact, I would never attempt to revise a piece in one pass. With each pass, the piece becomes better, and you become more skilled in the art of revision.
Another way to improve your skills, which many writers neglect, is to practice with others’ work. Beta reading and even mentally editing while reading for pleasure are fantastic ways to better your craft.
Another way to improve your skills, which many writers neglect, is to practice with others’ work. Beta reading and even mentally editing while reading for pleasure are fantastic ways to better your craft.
What is one thing anyone can do right now to make themselves a better writer?
Divide yourself into three people: the writer, the editor, and the submitter. Do not let any of these three people influence the others. Write instinctively, edit analytically, and submit with ferocity and the thickest skin you can wear. This might not be easy, but it will certainly make you a better writer.
And read. Because if, as Kafka said, “a non-writing writer is a monster courting insanity,” a non-reading writer is one courting insanity in the dark.
And read. Because if, as Kafka said, “a non-writing writer is a monster courting insanity,” a non-reading writer is one courting insanity in the dark.
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Use the form to tell me about your project and what sort of editing you need.
If you're not sure, don't worry. We'll talk it through to determine the best fit for you and your manuscript. Feel free to include any questions you have about myself or the editing process. I look forward to working with you! 
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Victoria is the founder and owner of Blue Pen Books. She has worked with genres including literary fiction, suspense, horror, thriller, romance, historical fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, and memoir. She adores any work that blends genres. Victoria's short fiction has appeared in more than 40 publications. Her writing tends to emphasize Appalachian culture and often includes literary and suspense elements. She is represented by Sandy Lu of L. Perkins Agency. Victoria is an active member of the Editorial Freelancers Association, the Knoxville Writers' Guild, and the Tennessee Mountain Writers. She is also a founding editor of the Revise & Resubmit (#RevPit) pitch contest. |