As a novelist (both traditionally published and self-published),I know the enormous benefit of working with an editor. I always hire an editor before I send a manuscript out to an agent or publisher—it’s amazing what we miss in our own work no matter how skilled we are. It’s also a tremendous gift to have a co-pilot on a project. Hiring an editor is a solid investment that can make all the difference in the success and quality of your book.
I offer a variety of services to writers:
Manuscript Reviews
“I’m an author with ten published books and several major awards. When I have something new I want to show the world, I show Susan first. She’s the best copy editor I’ve ever worked with.”
– Erin Bow“Susan’s kind and capable manuscript evaluation helped my book emerge from a giant word salad. Her editing strengthened the manuscript further. I’m grateful for her insights and suggestions, and have already recommended her to other writers.”- Lori Guenther Reesor
Think of this as a book review in advance of publication—a constructive and supportive professional opinion to help you see what your writing needs. You send me your manuscript and any questions, challenges or thoughts you have. I read the book carefully and develop a detailed editorial letter that helps you see the book’s strengths and weaknesses in terms of plot, character, pacing, grammar, etc. I will ask you great questions that will help you refine your book. You will have the opportunity to respond to the editorial letter with your own clarifying questions.
Cost: $679 (for up to 75,000 words)
Editing
“I have recently worked with Susan Fish on a project and found her insights to be unique, honest, and invaluable. I highly recommend availing yourself of her experience and wisdom.” – Charlie Peacock, producer, author“It was a pleasure to work with Susan. She provided the perfect expertise that I needed to make my manuscript presentable and ready to publish. She set a schedule and provided thoughtful and insightful feedback which improved my work. With professionalism and confidence, Susan provided an evaluation of my manuscript that opened my eyes to both shortcomings and opportunities to improve my work and tell my story. Susan’s editing skills elevated my work and provided the confidence and excitement I needed to share my manuscript with the world.” – Timothy Burke
“I was impressed with Susan’s warm approach to me as a client. Her quick responsiveness, expert eye to detail, thoughtful perspective and knowledge of the editing/writing field were incredibly valuable to the success of my project. I recommend without reservation!” – Christa van Daele
I provide a combination of line editing and developmental editing: essentially your work is polished, sharpened and cleaned up properly. I catch errors and repetition. I put notes in the margin about questions that come up. (Note: this is not a proofread so I do not guarantee that the work will be 100% free of all typos.)
Cost: $0.03/word for full-length works.
Coaching/Cowriting
Like any other skill, we sometimes need help with our writing. If you think your writing would benefit from a coaching session or two, whether on the craft of writing or the publishing process, let’s talk about how I could help you. I charge an hourly rate but our introductory conversation is free of charge.
I often say that the best time to work with me is either when you’re done or when you’re stuck. While a manuscript review is often the best way to move forward from either of those places, I also work with a limited number of clients as a co-writer, helping their muddle of great ideas become a book. If you’re interested in this service, contact me to see if I can be of service.