You’ve had a story idea. You’ve written and rewritten, and you’ve taken your story as far as you can on your own. You’re ready for a second set of eyes. You’re ready to work with an editor. Together, we can develop and refine your manuscript to prepare for self-publishing or submission to an agent or publisher. Together, we can make your manuscript reader-ready.
A high-level report providing analysis and guidance on how to improve your novel.
Help revising big-picture issues like organization, plot, and characterization.
Help making style decisions and fixing grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Help with communication, coordination, and administration tasks.
I am open to editing across genres, but I am most interested and experienced in the following (middle grade, young adult, and adult):
Sci-fi, fantasy, fairy tales, mythology, characters in extraordinary worlds and situations . . .
Contemporary fiction, character driven narratives, explorations of identity and belonging . . .
Graphic novels, graphic memoirs, illustrated children's books, picture books . . .
Emily did a great job with the feedback she provided for my fantasy novel. She was reliable, not only in the quality of service, but also delivered everything on time. Her strengths are attention-to-detail and understanding. She is able to pick out the smallest inconsistencies as well as large plot contradictions, and while calling attention to these, will provide suggestions that will improve your story. Additionally, she demonstrated a deep understanding of the characters, plot and setting; highlighting elements that did not fit together and correctly making plot insights that would follow in later books. I think any writer looking to hire her will appreciate her ability to immerse herself into their work. One of her specialities is her chapter breakdown that analyzes the story at the anatomical level. This along with the other pieces of feedback gave me the tools to tell my story in the best way possible. Overall, it was nice to work with someone who had as much passion for my book as I did. I would definitely recommend her.
TEODOR DYSHNIKU
I came to Emily for copy editing with a book series already begun. She did an excellent job jumping into the middle of the story, finding the voice from the first book and maintaining it with the second. Her skills with the English language and insights into story telling were huge assets to polishing the story I wanted to tell. She was professional, up front, and clear about her process and what I could expect as a final result. Her feedback was very detailed yet not overwhelming, and was helpful to both the story and me going forward as a writer.
I am glad I worked with Emily. The finished draft looks nice, and her inputs and suggestions smoothed the expressions of feelings that I sometimes have a hard time explaining in English. When I finished the edit and read it one more time, my eyes soaked with tears; I couldn’t believe I came so far.
THEODORA NOVAK
Emily was hired by a publisher to provide a manuscript evaluation for me. Every point in the comprehensive evaluation was tactfully made, and it was easy to see how making the suggested changes would improve my story. Since then, Emily is my go-to editor whenever I need short stories polished. She always gives me more confidence to send them off to various publications.
Emily is a true professional. Her editing skills are superior; her ability to communicate effectively with clients is excellent; and her organizational skills are superb. She delivers completed tasks on time and to requirements. She is a pleasure to work with.
KIRSTEN MARION, COMMON DEER PRESS