Line Editing
Bringing your voice and your characters to life
What is Line Editing?
Service Overview
Line editing is sometimes called Stylistic Editing. With a line edit, we are getting into the mechanics of your story.
- Does the dialogue between characters sound natural?
- Are the voices of your characters consistent throughout the manuscript?
- Is the POV consistent?
- If there are changes in POV, do the switches happen at logical points in the story?
- Does the pacing of each chapter and scene make sense?
- Should any scenes be added or removed?
- Is the writing showing or telling?
- Are the characters’ actions believable and follow through to subsequent scenes?
As I read through your manuscript for a line edit, I will make changes to the file to address these issues or inconsistencies. I will also leave comments explaining why I made these changes and even links to additional resources for you to look at if you want more information. All changes will be made using the Microsoft Track Changes feature, so you have the freedom to accept or reject any changes I make.
You will also receive a style sheet for your story. Not every editor offers this for line edits, but I have found that having a resource that documents your story’s themes, character and setting information, and your unique writing preferences. This will help you during revisions and help your future copyeditor.
The goal of a line edit is to strengthen your authorial voice and make sure your characters’ personalities shine.
Sample Edits: Complimentary sample edits are available for line editing services on a 1,000-word excerpt from your manuscript. For sample edits, I request you send your complete manuscript, or as much of it as you are willing to share, so that I can select an excerpt that will adequately show the scope and style of editing you can expect from me. Longer sample edits are available for $15 per extra thousand words. This amount will be credited to your project if you decide to have me line edit your manuscript.
An NDA will accompany all sample edits, so you can have confidence that I will not steal or distribute your story.
How It Works
We jump on a 30-minute call to ensure we’re on the same page about services and expectations.
Then, you’ll send over your manuscript for a sample edit.
After the sample edit, we can have an optional call to review the comments and answer any questions you have.
If you decide to use me as your editor, I will send you a proposal and a contract.
I read your entire manuscript, making changes, comments, and suggestions. I’ll also create a style sheet explicitly tailored to your manuscript.
After you get the manuscript feedback and style sheet, we will schedule a 1-to 2-hour video call to discuss my feedback and answer your questions. You’ll also have unlimited access to me via email while you make your revisions.
How It Works
We jump on a 30-minute call to ensure we’re on the same page about services and expectations.
Then, you’ll send over your manuscript for a sample edit.
After the sample edit, we can have an optional call to review the comments and answer any questions you have.
If you decide to use me as your editor, I will send you a proposal and a contract.
I read your entire manuscript, making changes, comments, and suggestions. I’ll also create a style sheet explicitly tailored to your manuscript.
After you get the manuscript feedback and style sheet, we will schedule a 1-to 2-hour video call to discuss my feedback and answer your questions. You’ll also have unlimited access to me via email while you make your revisions.
Timelines & Rates
Rates: $0.015 – $0.030 per word, depending on the expected turnaround time and the level of work your manuscript needs.
Scheduling: Some services may need to be scheduled several months in advance.
If you are under a tight deadline, please let me know in the contact form!
Combination Edits: Discounts are available for booking more than one editorial service.