DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING
You’ve come to the end of your draft manuscript. Now it’s time to step back and consider what you’re written. A developmental editor will help you do this by looking at your work objectively and giving you the big picture on your writing.
Sometimes called structural or content editing, developmental editing is our most intensive service and involves an editor going deep into your novel or short story and helping figure out what’s working and what needs reworking.
When you choose to work with a Book Edit Developmental Editor, you can be confident that your work will be handled with the utmost care and attention. Our director reads all the submission queries and matches each writer to the best editor for their work. She also acts as the conduit between you and the editor to ensure a smooth and professional experience.
“‘Without the encouragement and critical analysis of the Book Edit I might have written my novel into a cul de sac. Their input has been indispensable and provided the keys which have unlocked the story and made it much more cohesive. I believe that it works thanks to them. I would recommend them to every first time author.’ ”
When you engage a Book Edit developmental editor, they will:
read your manuscript paying forensic attention to story, genre, plot, pace, character, dialogue, setting, voice, structure and tone.
produce detailed notes on your manuscript, including areas that need developing and suggestions for rewrites.
provide comments embedded into the text, where necessary, to illustrate areas in need of further work.
answer up to ten follow-up questions, via email, on anything you want further clarity on once the edit is completed.
“‘My experience with the Book Edit has been incredible. Emily matched me perfectly with Kirstan Hawkins and I couldn’t ask for a better editor! I was blown away by the level of details in the feedback I received and all the valuable tips and guidance Kirstan gave me. I wouldn’t have been able to improve my manuscript and have it ready for querying without Emily and Kirstan’s help. I’d highly recommend the Book Edit’s service to any writer starting on their journey to get published.’ ”
All our editors are also writers which means they understand how challenging and transformative the editorial process can be.
“‘The Book Edit opened my eyes, providing invaluable enlightenment into what fuels the success of great storytelling. After applying their shared wisdom, I was confident to release my book into the world. The true praise I would like to give would fill another manuscript…’ ”