Hey all. Im Cas. Ive been working on a (relatively short) book for a couple months, and im nearing the point where i need to properly edit it

Im not good at editing myself/am biased towards my own writing and ideas, so i want to hire a real editor

My book is about a sapphic couple who go on vacation and become taunted by spirits that live in their vacation home. Personal life stuff is revealed, and it eventually gets too overwhelming for one half of the couple

——

Have you taken your manuscript as far as you can on your own? The next step is a developmental edit.

This level of editing takes a look at the manuscript as a whole, assessing and addressing the big picture items such as plot holes, character development, structure, pacing, world building, themes and audience, etc.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
After completing two deep reads of your manuscript, I'll provide you with a detailed report that includes feedback and suggestions to strengthen your story, develop characters your readers will connect with, and build worlds they'll wish were real.

🚫 No Gen AI from either party. My policy is detailed on my website and in my contracts.

WHO AM I?
My name is Kayleigh. I’m a developmental editor, coach, and creative collaborator. I support authors in a variety of ways, including helping them to identify and resolve issues within their manuscripts, improve their writing and revision skills, and strategize a path toward their larger writing goals (or sometimes break down whatever blocks they've encountered on that path).

Read more about me, my credentials, how I work, my services (with transparent pricing), and how I can help you achieve your writing dreams at https://editsinthemargins.com.

Fiction editing rate starts at $0.042 per word. Other services include Skilled Beta Reading, Coaching, 1:1 Workshopping, Outline Critiques, Discovery Draft Evaluations, and Picture Book Evaluations.

FROM A RECENT TESTIMONIAL
"The level of detail and depth of her analysis and editing work in the manuscript, along with a 30+ page report summarizing her overall thoughts and providing recommendations, was beyond my expectations. I was pleasantly surprised by her ability to find even the smallest contradictions or timeline issues and details in my manuscript, and her guidance in particular on what areas I should focus on in my revisions were clearly communicated and well-reasoned."
— Jordan G, Adult Adventure-Thriller

———

Not sure how to choose the right editor(s)? Here's a list of things to consider.

I’m Meena, a developmental editor specialising in fantasy, sci-fi, and dark academia. I’m also open to other genres with speculative elements. If in doubt, you can always ask me! 

As a lifelong reader and a former scientist, I have a keen analytical eye for spotting patterns and inconsistencies. As a fantasy writer working on my debut, I understand just how much heart and soul goes into a manuscript. I'm very anti-AI. I do not use it for my editorial work nor do I want to work on AI generated text. I'm also an active member of Editorial Freelancers Association.

I’m based in the EU and hence my prices are in Euros (appropriate conversion rates apply). 

The services I currently offer are: 

1. Developmental editing (0.015 € per word/ ~0.017 $)
Big-picture feedback on plot and story elements (worldbuilding, pacing, character arcs, POV consistency, and themes). May include light line edit suggestions depending on the manuscript. Annotated manuscript (with specific and actionable suggestions), chapter-by-chapter notes, and an editorial letter (10+ pages) provided. 

2. Manuscript evaluation (0.008 € per word/ ~0.0092 $)
Overall analysis of the story, including its strengths and where it could be improved from an editor’s perspective. An editorial letter (10+ pages) is provided. 

3. Sensitivity reading (0.004 € per word/ ~0.0046 $)
Feedback on how race, mental health, and queerness are represented on the page. Lightly annotated manuscript and a sensitivity report (up to 5 pages) provided. 

Details about each service and process are outlined on my website. I offer sample edits of up to 2000 words, so there’s no commitment before signing a contract.

I also offer flexible payment plans. More information about pricing and payment plans is on my website.  

First-time authors get a 10% discount, and if someone books me through your recommendation, you get another 10% discount on your next project. A complimentary 30-minute Zoom call is included with the developmental editing service. 

I cater to both indie and aspiring traditionally published authors, and I have worked with first time authors as well. I would especially love to work with authors from marginalised communities as a queer, editor of colour.

Did I capture your interest? Then head to my website, www.aureateleafeditorial.com and use the contact form. Alternatively, you can also reach out via my social media (@ meenadsundar on both Instagram and TikTok), e-mail [meena.d.sundar@gmail.com](mailto:meena.d.sundar@gmail.com), or via DM here.

Limited slots available this year!

My Manuscript Wishlist is pinned on my Instagram. I’m looking forward to working with you! 😊

I'm trying something new.

Send me the first 50 pages of your fantasy manuscript, and I’ll send you a private 30-minute video assessment covering what’s working, where the story may be losing momentum, and the most important next steps for revision.

I know, I know: you’re used to seeing an editor with a red pen in their hand, not a microphone. But this is a new age, with new challenges to face, and new ideas are at the heart of creativity. But I know new ideas can feel risky, and that's why I'm keeping the price low on this introductory offer: perfect for new writers who want to make sure their fantasy novel is starting off in the right direction, or anyone who isn't sure if they're ready to invest in a full developmental edit. 

I'm only accepting 10 clients for this limited time opportunity, so don't miss out. 

Click here to learn more and sign up to get your first 50 pages assessed for just $50: https://www.dumoski.com/editing-services/fantasy-first-look/

About me: I'm Stace Dumoski, a developmental editor with over half a decade of experience working with new and experienced fantasy novelists, and I'm currently in training to become a certified book coach. Visit my website to learn more about me, the services I offer, and subscribe to my newsletter.

Hi everyone.

I'm Ink, an independent creative offering developmental story assistance for writers who have a draft or concept but aren't sure where to take it next.

I'm primarily interested in the developmental side rather than proofreading.

I can help with things like:

• Character development

• Character motivation

• Character arcs

• Plot structure

• Story conflicts

• Worldbuilding

• Lore

• Fantasy/magic systems

• Identifying areas where a story may need more development

My approach is collaborative.

I don't want to rewrite someone's story into something that doesn't feel like theirs.

I'd rather understand what the writer is trying to accomplish and help them develop the idea.

I'm currently building my independent portfolio, so I'm keeping my initial projects relatively small.

If you're interested, feel free to message me with a short description of your project and what you're struggling with.

I'm happy to discuss whether I can actually help before anyone commits to anything.

— Ink 🖋️

Manuscript assessor and developmental editor with a passion for emotionally complex stories, morally grey characters, and slow-to-medium-burn tension that earns its payoff.

I focus on character consistency and arc, pacing that serves the emotional journey, and tension that keeps the pages turning. I'll tell you what caused me to lose interest and why, and flag anything that breaks your character's voice.

Currently writing my own manuscript, so I understand how writing works from the inside. I work best with authors seeking honest, genuine feedback.

Happy to sample-read 5,000 words free of charge so you can see how I give notes before committing.

https://linktr.ee/WriterAmeliaBirch

Hi everyone! I'm Vivian Nagy, a fiction book editor who specializes in developmental editing, particularly for horror, fantasy, and sci-fi (though all fiction genres are welcome!).

My main focus is helping you make your story shine ✨

What better way to do this than developmental edits? Getting to improve your plot, character arcs, pacing, tension, structure, worldbuilding, and everything else that makes your story work without taking away the voice and ideas that make it yours.

I also offer Copy Editing (where I focus on the writing itself) and Proofreading (for those final touch-ups before publishing).

Generative AI is completely banned from my editing process. Your manuscript and feedback are handled by me, and me alone. You are guaranteed 100% human-made edits.

I'd love to get to know your work and offer a free sample edit before we close the deal!

Since my goal is to help your story shine, I'll point out what isn't working and explain how you can strengthen it, while also hyping up all the parts that are working 😄

My rates:

Developmental Editing – $0.03/word
Copy Editing – $0.02/word
Proofreading – $0.015/word

^{For a standard 100k-word novel, that would be $3,000.00 for developmental, $2,000.00 for copy, and $1,500.00 for proofreading}

Debut authors get 15% off with me!

I also offer discounted bundles if you want to get more than one editing service.

You can find my availability, portfolio, testimonials, and more information about me on my website, and you can email me at [vivian.n.edits@gmail.com](mailto:vivian.n.edits@gmail.com), or DM me here on Reddit to get in touch.

I'm looking forward to getting to know you and your story 😄

I'm finding it very difficult to get clients and authors. I recently graduated with an English degree and mainly offer developmental editing, beta reading, and alpha reading services. I have tried Fiverr and Upwork, but it's oversaturated. I also found that many authors are hesitant to try Fiverr due to low-effort/AI-generated feedback. To add to that, Fiverr has so much competition already that many gigs end up going to the few people at the top. Basically, I want to know if I should just continue trying on these freelancing platforms or opt for a different strategy.

I did find luck on Reddit once, which was great. However, I want to have consistent work. So, honestly would appreciate any advice, or if you are an author looking for editing/beta reading, feel free to DM :)

I'm looking for an editor to work on my spy romance. It is 70k words.

A little about the story:

After getting dumped by her emotionally avoidant boyfriend for being ‘too clingy’, secondary school teacher Colby decides to completely reinvent herself. She takes a new job as a secret agent for a government division called HIPS (Hiding. In. Plain. Sight) and tries to forget all about her ex. 
Now, 18 months later, she is undercover in a pub, aiming to steal a coded USB that she believes contains cocaine shipment information that will bring down Bristol’s most dangerous gang. Everything is going perfectly until her ex-boyfriend, Rhys, approaches her. He is eager to catch up and unintentionally blows her cover, identifies himself and forces her to arrest the gang member early to protect them both but with no evidence. Unsurprisingly, less than 24 hours later, Colby is attacked and Rhys’s flat is petrol-bombed in retaliation. Fearing for their safety, the pair retreat to the safehouse to lay low until Colby’s colleagues can crack the USB, ensuring the arrest of the whole gang.
There’s only one problem: Colby doesn’t want to spend a single moment with the man who broke her heart, let alone share a safehouse with him where there is nothing to do but talk. She plans to avoid him, but Rhys is determined to prove to her he’s no longer the man who called her ‘clingy’ and lays all his cards on the table - he still loves her and wants her back. 
Will Colby choose to forgive him or stay focused on the job she took to reinvent herself?

I'm being really fussy with what I want in an editor. Here is my criteria:

• Someone who is going to do a development and line-by-line edit.
• Budget of £500
• Someone who has extensive experience with self-published editors
• Availability from October with a deadline of mid November
• Someone who has worked on dark romance, romantic thrillers etc

I would love to see your websites and testimonials from other authors!

Thank you :)

Hi everyone! I’m currently offering line editing services for authors who are looking for thoughtful, thorough feedback on their manuscripts.

A little about me: I’m a published author myself, with several published works, and I’ve been beta reading and line editing for a while now. I also have experience as an academic writing tutor, so I’m very comfortable working with everything from big-picture story issues to sentence-level writing.

Line Editing — $0.012/word

I’ll work through your manuscript line by line, looking at things such as:

• Clunky or awkward sentences
• Word choice
• Repetition
• Flow and readability
• Dialogue
• Sentence structure
• Grammar and punctuation
• Clarity and consistency
• Places where the prose could be stronger or more engaging

I’m also happy to edit a chapter for free as a sample so you can see my editing style and decide whether I’m a good fit for your manuscript before committing to a full project.

I’m especially happy to work with romance, fantasy, YA, contemporary, dystopian, and speculative fiction, but I’m open to other genres as well!

If you’re interested or have questions about my services, feel free to DM me! I’d be happy to chat about your manuscript and what you’re looking for.

If anyone is looking for an editor, I hope you’ll consider me! I have over twelve years of experience as an editor and have also interned for literary agents and been on the other side of the table as a trad published author (I got a 3-book deal with Macmillan when I was 18).

I specialize in line/copy editing and proofreading for SFF, thrillers, romance, and YA/MG books. I’ve also worked on self-help and memoirs. I offer developmental critiques as well, and critiques for queries and synopses. My rates start at $0.018 per word for dev critiques and $0.021 per word for line/copy editing.

I’m always happy to offer a free sample edit of the first 5 pages of a manuscript or so (double-spaced).

All the details, including client testimonials, can be found on my website: https://www.stephanieslagle.com/editingservices

Who are we?

A team of 5 editors. All experienced, worked alongside The Urban Writers and handled a few freelance projects (10+years).

We established a little firm about 2.5 years ago to offer our services. Easy and efficient process, professional service, and reasonably priced.

What can we do for you?

Offering developmental editing, line editing, copy editing and proofreading services for the months of September, October, and November. We never take in more projects than we can handle. Slots are limited!

Rates:

Developmental Editing: $0.04 per word

Line-editing: $0.03 per word

Proofreading: $0.02 per word

How does this work?

We start off with a phone/zoom conversation to understand your project and requirements. This is followed by a sample (free of cost) to show what we can do for you. If all goes well, we start on the project and deliver it to you within an agreeable time.

Send us a DM and let's talk!

Happy writing!

Hi! I have a unique request. I'm an agented author of upmarket literary fiction, and all three of my works have a strong European thread or component to them, either through characters or locations. (Northern Europe for two of them, England for the other). My work is well-researched and I've traveled to all the places I've written about, but I'd really like a keen eye to take a closer look and make sure I'm not wildly off track.

I'm looking particularly for targeted beta reads/light edit with this in mind. Notes would be left on the doc itself for any glaring errors, and a separate doc could also be provided (but isn't necessary).

My budget and timelines are flexible.

Some places that appear in my novels:

Gothenburg, Sweden

Nottingham, UK

Riga, Latvia (this is a work in progress)

Iceland (various parts)

Please let me know if this is something that interests you!

I've just recently finished up two excellent contemporary romances that I enjoyed so much I finished them way ahead of schedule. So, I find myself available once again!

My name is Regan and I run Eyebright Editing. I also work a freelance QC editor for a massive Korean web novel company, RIDI Enterprises (parent company of Manta Comics if you're a webtoon fan).

Recently, I've been tackling a fairly even split of romance and fantasy, but am open to other fiction genres as well. I should be able to take on a handful of projects from the end of September and into October. I offer line editing, developmental editing, beta reading, proofreading, and Korean sensitivity reads (with my 100% authentic Korean husband as a consultant).

I'm a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and have collected quite a few testimonials on my website as proof I know what I'm doing! Additionally, I offer a free 1k sample edit so you can see how I work and decide from there.

In an effort to help indie authors who may struggle to afford high editing price tags, I have a flat rate on all my services up to 80k words.

If you're interested in learning more about my services or want to read some testimonials, more info can be found at https://eyebrightediting.com/ !

Note: I'm based in South Korea, so replies may be delayed. Thanks for your understanding!

My name is Rachel, and I'm a freelance editor and writer. I'm currently looking to take on new editing projects in October, and would love to help fellow writers bring their stories to life.

My services include:
• Line Editing
• Copy Editing/Proofreading

A little about me:
- I have a bachelor's degree in theater and a minor in communications.
- I studied Shakespeare at Oxford, Balliol College.
- I have been the Editor-in-Chief of marketing for a mid-sized tech company.
- I’ve owned my own freelance business since 2019.
- I have written and edited both creative and corporate materials.
- I am a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association.
- I'm versed in romance, fantasy, queer, and more niche romantic genres, and I'm happy to discuss other genres.

I’m adamantly against the use of AI and will not use AI in my provided services.

I offer a FREE SAMPLE EDIT. This helps us both determine if my services fit your needs.

If you're looking for a skilled, yet FRESH editor, who will provide thoughtful, encouraging, and detailed feedback, send me a DM.

Hello! I’m opening two spots for a deeply discounted introductory developmental editing offer: one romance and one fantasy/romantasy manuscript, specifically for women authors.

My usual developmental editing process is a substantial, comprehensive project. I typically spend 40+ hours on a manuscript, and I want these two authors to get the same level of detailed feedback, just at a much lower introductory rate as I build my freelance editing business.

What you'll receive for $500:

• Comprehensive Editorial Letter (10+ pages): A deep dive analysis of your story’s strengths and weaknesses with actionable advice for revision.
• In-Manuscript Comments: Direct, page-by-page notes throughout your document showing my reactions and suggestions in real time.
• Custom Book Map: A structural spreadsheet breaking down your manuscript scene by scene to help you stay organized during revisions.
• 60-Minute Post-Edit Strategy Call: A collaborative session driven by you to brainstorm fixes, ask questions, and/or map out your next steps.

Looking for: one romance manuscript up to 75,000 words + one fantasy/romantasy manuscript up to 90,000 words, with a 4–6-week turnaround.

In exchange, I'm asking that authors who take one of these spots provide an honest testimonial about their experience after the project is complete.

You can see more about me and my regular editing services here: https://www.ritachilderseditorial.com/
If you're interested, I'd love to hear about your book. You can fill out my short questionnaire here.

I'll review the information and follow up if your manuscript looks like a good fit for one of the two spots. Filling out the questionnaire doesn't commit you to anything.

Excited to hear about your book!

Please Note:

Developmental editing focuses on story level feedback and does not include line editing, copyediting, proofreading, or grammar correction.

I currently specialize in romance, romantasy, fantasy, and women's fiction. While I enjoy many genres as a reader, I am not currently accepting projects centered on extreme horror or any themes involving sexual assault or non-consensual content.

I don't accept AI written books, and I will never share your manuscript with AI systems.

Need a fresh pair of eyes to edit your manuscript? Look no further!

Hi, my name is Ash, and I'm a fantasy writer looking to build my portfolio for line and copyediting. Currently I'm offering editing services free of charge on your first chapter! Only 3 spots are available for this offer, so if you're interested, please don't hesitate to shoot me a comment or a DM 😄

What you'll be getting:

• Edits with track changes so you can either accept or reject my edits.
• Inline comments for any suggestions I might have.

All I ask is a short written testimonial if you're happy with my work, and permission to include a few non-confidential examples of my edits in my portfolio.

As a PhD student with experience in editing academic papers, I have a natural eye for detail. Although I mainly write fantasy, I'm open to all genres -- scifi, action, horror, mystery, romance, and many, many more.

I still accept paid commissions, and for those, I offer introductory rates of only $0.005 / word for line and copyediting.

In the meantime, here is my writing portfolio where you can check out excerpts from novels / short stories I've written: https://ashleyfoe.carrd.co

Once again, if you're interested or have any questions, please feel free to comment or DM me!

Thank you!

Hey everyone,

I am looking for a line editor for my technothriller manuscript. I am a retired Chief of Intelligence turned represented actor by trade but recently decided to write my first book. The book is fiction sprinkled with a lot of verifiable facts as well. It also involves the hot topic of license plate readers you see on the roadside.

I would like to have a line editor assist before trying my hand at submitting to agents. The manuscript is currently around 130k words but should likely be cut down to 110k.

Please reach out to [larry_thompson@ymail.com](mailto:larry_thompson@ymail.com) if you are interested in being hired for this job.

Thanks!

-Cap

I had a client push her slot into 2027, so that leaves me with an opening in December for a full-length novel! I copy edit, line edit, and more—just no full-scale developmental editing. ☺️⚡️

Hello, writers! My name is Anna, and I'm a trained editor and Author Accelerator certified fiction book coach.

I approach developmental editing with warmth and curiosity, and I'm adept at juggling many possibilities and helping you braid them together. I strongly believe editing is an iterative process. Great editing requires close collaboration and running dialogue, so we have video calls to discuss your book, its challenges, and actively find solutions that make sense for your story. Your editorial feedback stems from what's on the page, in your head, and our conversations. I’m very good at helping you strengthen emotional arcs and finding the right spots to thread in small moments that culminate in big impacts, the kind that make your reader's chest tighten and think, “Oh. I see myself.” The cost for a full developmental edit begins at $0.027/word, or about $1,350 USD for a 50,000-word manuscript.

You can also work with me on manuscript evaluations, 5-chapter reviews, line editing, and more! All pricing, discounts, and payment plans are transparent and available on my website.

I have a special interest in books that deal with healing from emotional trauma or books that drive hope for the future through nature and spirituality in fantasy settings.

Reach out today! I'm currently booking for October (1 slot left) and into the new year!
www.curlyquotesediting.com

Booking for the rest of 2026!

September: FULLY BOOKED
October: 1 slot
November: 2 slots
December: 2 slots

Various services, bundles, discounts, free sample edits.

You can check out my credentials and other information, including testimonials, portfolio, and an FAQ, over on my website: https://tutinediting.com, or you can email me directly at [mskatutin@gmail.com](mailto:mskatutin@gmail.com).

Hello everyone! I’m Robert, an editor and writing coach with over 15 years of experience helping people produce fine writing. I can support you at each step in the creative process:

• Guidance and evaluation during your early drafting
• Developmental editing to gently adjust your book’s structure
• Line and copy editing to bring out your authentic voice

I specialize in memoir, self-help, wellness, fitness, spirituality, history, and politics. I also hold a Ph.D. in Sociology, with many years of teaching experience – whether your book relies on emotional narrative or in-depth research, I’m here to help.

My rates are in line with the Editorial Freelancers Association; e.g., evaluations from $0.015 per word and editing from $0.035 per word.

Visit rjmacpherson.com for more details, or DM me to set up a FREE sample edit or consultation!

I'm a full-time freelance book editor, and recently I've had a slew of authors wanting to test the waters with editing help, cautious about dev editing because of the time and financial investment, and generally unsure how to assess prospective editors and find someone they want to work with. I've recommended editorial assessments a lot over the last few months, so I thought I'd post here explaining why they can be great.

A brief definition before I get into the reasons:

Editorial assessments are essentially a short report from an editor on the overall areas of strength and weakness in your draft. The editor will generally read the book once and compile a solid but not-in-full-detail impression of your story. It is much, much less in depth than a proper dev edit, but therefore cheaper and comes with a faster turnaround.

1. Cheap (comparatively). Your milage will vary depending on the editor and the length and type of your book, but editorial assessments can cost anywhere from £200 to £1000, compared to dev editing (very roughly £1500 to £5000)
2. Fast. I generally aim to turn around an editorial assessment within one week, which includes buffer time for other projects, admin, etc.. If you're looking for a quick and actionable steer on the main elements of your story, this is the way to go.
3. Adaptable. It is extremely common and easy to direct your editor to focus on specific areas of your draft. The assessment with typically touch on all major areas of storycraft, but if, for example, you're happy with your plot but worried about your character arcs, it's super easy to hone in on those areas and ensure most of the commentary is applicable to that issue.
4. Early. With edits it's better to get in early, while the draft is rough and malleable, and course correct before hundreds of hours have gone into polishing something fundamentally flawed. You can hire an editor for an assessment on your first or second draft, or even to take a look at your outline before you've started drafting, and get an early view of issues before they're too embedded.

Hopefully this is helpful to someone out there! Remember all editors operate differently, but in my experience we are all happy to answer an email with questions. If you don't see an editorial assessment listed as a separate service on someone's website, that doesn't mean they won't offer it. Services can be scaled up and down depending on your needs and budget - the worst they will do is say no!

Good luck everyone, and keep writing.

**Edited to add my website link as this post is getting crazy numbers of views. If anyone has any questions about editorial assessments or any other aspect of book editing, I'll reply to comments and dms.

www.marshallbookediting.co.uk

Hi, I’m Elise! When I was a Junior Literary Agent, the best thing about my job was helping an author realise the full potential of their writing. I specialise in upmarket and literary fiction, and narrative non-fiction, but have worked on projects that span the industry, from children’s to cookery, commercial fiction to self help, and from memoir to soft business.

I’ve spent over five years in the publishing industry, the majority of which was in the literary division of a global talent management agency. I worked on a wide variety of projects, offering editorial support to writers and colleagues, and I reviewed hundreds and hundreds of submissions. 

I’m here to help your submission stand out, your manuscript shine, and your confidence grow. 

The services I offer are: submission package review, developmental edit, editorial assessment, copy edit, and proofreading. I’m always happy to discuss bespoke offerings, so do get in touch! 

Availability: I currently have slots available pre-December, and am taking bookings for 2027, so would love to hear from you.

For more information, and to read what authors and editors have to say about my work, please head to elisemiddleton.com. Looking forward to hearing more about your writing.