FAQ for Authors
Got questions? Totally normal. Every author does — even the ones on book twenty-three. Here’s a quick, no-nonsense guide to how I work, what I offer, and how I help keep your readers In the Zone from page one to “The End.”
Services & Workflow
What services do you offer?
I provide copy editing, proofreading, backlist editing, and combined editing packages for indie authors.
What’s the difference between copy editing and proofreading?
Copy editing focuses on clarity, flow, consistency, and conflicting or unclear details.
Proofreading is the final quality check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and minor issues.
Backlist editing strengthens previously published books to protect continuity and your author brand.
Do you offer a sample edit?
Yes. I offer a free 1,500-word sample copy edit so you can see how I edit and communicate.
How will you receive/deliver my document?
I primarily use email to exchange files, and I’ve never had a security issue.
If you prefer another method, I also offer Dropbox—just let me know.
How long will my edit take?
Turnaround time depends on word count, schedule, and service type. I’ll provide an approximate timeline when you reach out.
Will you change my voice?
No. My goal is to strengthen clarity and consistency while preserving your style. I offer suggestions—you choose what to accept.
Do you edit previously published books?
Yes! I work with both new manuscripts and previously published titles that need polishing.
Refreshing your backlist helps maintain consistency, protect your author brand, and ensure every book delivers a smooth reading experience.
Pricing & Payment
How much does it cost?
I use a simple per-word pricing model based on the original word count. Rates vary by service.
What if I can only afford one service?
If you can only choose one service, I recommend copy editing. It covers the widest range of issues—clarity, consistency, flow, repetition, conflicting details, grammar, punctuation, and general readability. A copy edit also includes the same basic corrections you’d find in a standard proofread.
A separate proofreading pass is helpful because it catches any remaining errors that sneak through after revisions, but it can always be done later when you’re ready. Some authors get a copy edit first and return for proofreading when their budget allows.
What payment methods do you accept?
I invoice through PayPal, which allows:
- Credit/debit cards
- PayPal accounts
- Additional PayPal-supported options
Editing Tools & Style Guides
What style guides do you use?
I mainly reference The Chicago Manual of Style (CMoS), which is standard for fiction.
I use style guides for guidance — but your voice and preferences always comes first.
What tools do you use?
Microsoft Word: My primary editing tool, using Track Changes.
Grammarly: For grammar/spelling/punctuation checks. This only used as a double-check.
Dictionary: Merriam-Webster.
Style Guide: Chicago Manual of Style.
Google: For fact-checking or quick research.
If you have another preference, just let me know!
These tools support my suggestions, but my brain determines the final updates I suggest. Of course, you make the final call.
What file formats do you accept?
I work with Microsoft Word (.docx) files so I can use Track Changes. If you have a different format, I may be able to convert it. Let’s talk.
If you’re new to Track Changes, I can help with a simple guide. Download it now.
Will you keep my document confidential?
Absolutely. Your manuscript is copyrighted and remains yours. I will never share or reuse your content beyond what is publicly available.
Genres
What genres do you work with?
Romance (MC, Security Company, Military, Suspense, Paranormal, Werewolves & Shifters, Fantasy, Spicy/Erotic, Horror), Paranormal, and Cozy Mystery.
I’m always open to additional genres and sub-genres. Let’s talk.
Do you work with sexually explicit content?
Yes. I’m comfortable editing romance and erotica that includes sexually explicit content. My focus is always on clarity, consistency, and flow—no matter the heat level. I approach every manuscript professionally and without judgment. Your story. Your voice. Your choice.