The Most Frequently Asked Questions I'm Asked

1) Why should I hire you?
I've worked both sides of a publishing desk. As an acquisitions editor working inside publishing houses, I bought lots of proposals and manuscripts from hopeful authors just like you. As an independent editor, I have written and edited proposals and manuscripts that were subsequently sold to publishers. I can shape your idea into a form that agents and publishers will recognize, appreciate and, hopefully, acquire.

2) Why do I need an editor?
Because you need an experienced person who does not have an emotional attachment to you or to your work. There is nothing wrong with asking the opinions of family members, friends or colleagues. However there is everything right with asking the opinion of a professional editor who will not only be honest in assessing your work, but will be able to help you as well.

3) Doesn't an editor just put in punctuation and correct spelling?
No. An editor helps to shape written material. That means interviewing the author on the phone, reviewing material and taking notes, providing an editorial letter that focuses on what is right with the project and how to make it better. Then it means working with the author to do just that.

4) How long will the job take?
The answer varies with every project. If you want your proposal or manuscript read and evaluated, that will take about a week. Editing that proposal or manuscript will take longer, depending on your schedule. That's because I will ask questions for you to answer, and then I will edit the new text and add it. Time required for writing projects varies as well and is determined on a case-by-case basis.

5) Can you help me get an agent?
I can help you prepare your material so that an agent will consider it. There is a proper way to present your idea.