Book Editing | Copy Editing Services| Word of Mouth Editing

Word of Mouth offers a full range of professional editing services

No book can be successful without top-notch, professional editing. Given a choice, do you want to read an edited or unedited book?

I am an established professional editor with numerous books of all subjects under my belt. I have provided author coaching and book editing of various levels to authors across the country. I am a top-listed, 5-star editor on the exclusive Reedsy.com marketplace.

Book and Manuscript Editing

Behind every great writer stands a great editor. You’ve put a lot of thought and passion into the work you’ve written; now let me make it shine. Editing is an essential step in creating professional quality material. It should not be skipped and is worth the investment, especially if you plan to self-publish.

As your editor, I’ll worry over grammar, syntax, and word choice so you can focus on writing. I’ll also watch for clarity and continuity, and make sure your story draws the reader in and answers their questions. Fees vary by the type of edit requested. Services are available for Line/Copy Edits (grammar, clarity, readability, and continuity checks) to advanced Developmental Edits that oversee the creation of the entire book.

Ghostwriting service is also available for those who have the idea and a good portion of the words on paper but want a professional writer to enhance and complete the work.

Not sure how or where to start? I’m available to coach and assist you through the entire writing, editing, and publishing process.

Editing of Every Type

There are several levels of editing an author can choose from depending on the depth of the edit they want. From my years as an editor for a publishing company, the following editing levels are my specialty. I edit all manuscripts according to The Chicago Manual of Style. Not sure of the level of edit you need? Ask for a consultation and sample edit.

Types of Copy Editing & Rates

Line/Copy Editing

I correct the writing, making edits at the sentence level to improve flow and readability. I do not comment on the work in any way. One edit of the work is included. $0.025 per word.

Enhanced Line/Copy Editing

Based on the Line Editing to the left but with notations in the margins guiding the author on where/how to make changes. I point out improvements that can be made, but I do not necessarily make those improvements (as an example, moving sections of the work around). You can choose one round of editing for $0.035 per word or two rounds of editing for $0.045 per word.

Developmental Editing

This has Enhanced Line Editing as its base, but goes further. Editorial comments are more extensive; I rewrite and reorganize the material as needed. Includes two rounds of edits but also phone consultations to discuss the work with the author. Pricing starts at $0.055 per word but depends on the scope of work.

Ghostwriting Service

This service is available for those who have the idea and a good portion of the words on paper. Call or email to see if I would be a good fit with your project. Prices start at $0.055 per word and can vary with the scope of work.

I interviewed several editors with Michelle standing out since she was willing to offer a sample copy edit and provide a phone meeting, which most weren’t willing to do. But as helpful as those were, my deciding factor was her personality. What a joyful, fun, and bubbly personality. Yes, she has the expertise along with an English and Psychology education, but her warm nature allowed me to feel relaxed and my fears of inadequacy to disappear. Our meetings are fun and productive. No question, comment, or conversation is too trivial, childish, or outlandish, which fosters creativity. When Michelle provides constructive feedback, it’s never demoralizing or demeaning, and that provides a safe space for me to express myself. She also looks at my work as it’s her own, helping me to understand my writing style, viewing my characters as real people even at times knowing them better than I do. I’m thankful to be working with Michelle.

~SSL

Custom Author Coaching

Do you wish you could just talk to an editor about your desire to write a book? Are you looking for a partner who will work with you to make your book the best it can be? I can help in all cases!

Let's set up a custom author coaching program designed with your writing goals in mind.

This is a personalized service that will be as unique as you and your book. It can be a simple as a single phone call to a full-on writing program.

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