Editing
I also roll up my editing sleeves to partner with writers who want insightful, actionable feedback on their work. I'll look at chapters and full drafts with a quick big-picture approach or a fine-tooth-comb, depending on how in-depth you want to go. I will (gently) push you to commit and embrace the driving force of your story. I love asking the tough questions about structure, motivation, story lines, and flow. And yes, if you go down a rabbit hole sharing information that isn't making your point, I will call that out, too.
There are many kinds of editors but I am primarily a developmental editor, which means I like to take a partial or full manuscript and help you to make it the absolute best it can be (copy editors, you have my deepest respect, but that’s not me!). I may suggest work on character development, story arc, arc of change, making sure your “jacket copy” point is shining through and any other refinements that will make your story the best it can be.
From there, if you would like to work together to trouble shoot on any of my comments, you may want to look at using me as your book coach!
Services to get started
Chapter review
Do you have a few chapters and the need for feedback? Want to know what’s working and not working for your efforts so far?
Up to 50 pages: $450
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editorial letter (1-2 page)
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one 30-minute phone call
Fresh eyes
Do you have a contract with a publisher for a book in development? If you want a professional read from someone who isn’t on your team (but who’s rooting for you!), I can be a fresh set of eyes.
Up to 60K words: $1,000
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editorial letter (1-2 page)
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one 45-minute phone call
More than 60K words: $1,500
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editorial letter (1-2 page)
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one 45-minute phone call
More to read, more to learn
Manuscript assessments
Do you have a full manuscript you want reviewed? Are you wondering if it’s query-ready or needs another pass? This comprehensive edit includes:
Up to 60K words: $2,000
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One 5-10 page editorial letter
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Dev edit comments in manuscript
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One 45-minute coaching call post-evaluation
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Direction for manuscript next steps
More than 60K words: $2,500
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One 5-10 page editorial letter
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Dev edit comments in manuscript
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One 45-minute coaching call post-evaluation
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Direction for manuscript next steps
Rewrite options
Do you have a full manuscript that you wanted coached through a re-write?
Editorial package 1: $2,000
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Five deadlines of 25 pages per deadline (roughly two chapters)
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Deadlines scheduled weekly or semi-weekly
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In-line comments and ed letter for each deadline
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Two 45-minute calls
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Additional sessions at $400 each (one 25-page submission and one 45-min call)
Editorial package 2: $4,000
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Ten deadlines of 25 pages per deadline (roughly two chapters)
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Deadlines scheduled weekly or semi-weekly
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Dev edit comments and ed letter for each deadline
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Four 45-minute calls
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Additional sessions at $400 each (one 25-page submission and one 45-min call)
Marni did an excellent job helping us with the substantive edit of Absolute Expert: Pandas, 2019 Nat Geo Kids. She hit the perfect tone and identified the ideal depth of content for the target audience.
— Karen McNally Upson
Senior Editor, Girl Friday Productions
