Editorial services
I offer four services to authors and publishers – manuscript assessment, structural editing, copyediting and proofreading – to ensure your manuscript is in the best possible shape for publication. I always endeavour to retain the voice of the author while meeting the needs of the reader.
Trained in both Word and Adobe PDF, I can work in a way that suits your needs.
Manuscript assessment
A manuscript assessment is the first overview of your manuscript to identify its strengths and weaknesses. Ideal for authors who don't want a full structural edit but want to get their manuscript in the best possible shape before sending it for copyeditng. I will provide you with feedback on areas such as:
- plot
- characterisation
- structure
- consistency
- style
- the use of any crutch words
You will be provided with a PDF report on all of the above. This will help you decide what to change and what the next editorial step is.
Price: from £300.00
'I highly recommend working with Abbie. Her input substantially improved the quality of my manuscript.'
Lisa, author via Reedsy
Structural editing
The structural (or developmental) edit is the first substantial phase of the editorial process. It helps you look at the big picture elements of your manuscript to make the story tighter. This goes into more depth than the manuscript assessment, and you will receive in-line comments as well as an editorial report. Advice will be given on:
- plot
- themes
- characterisation
- point of view
- voice
- pace
- dialogue
- flow
Price: from £11 per 1000 words.
'Abbie made a daunting experience simple and stress-free for me. She has been a great help and very professional throughout.'
GE Magee, author
Copyediting
Working through your manuscript on a line-by-line basis, I will ensure readability, clarity and consistency. The copyedit focuses on:
- spelling, grammar and punctuation
- sentence flow, structure and word order
- reducing repetition and crutch words
- consistency of timeline, characters and plot
- consistency of style
- fact checking where appropriate
- formatting and layout
All copyediting clients will receive a style sheet and a chapter breakdown.
Price: from £10 per 1000 words.
'I've had the pleasure of working with Abbie as a proofreader on a range of fiction and non-fiction titles. Her attention to detail, ability to work to tight deadlines and wonderful communication skills make her a dream to collaborate with and I'd recommend her to anyone seeking a talented freelancer.'
Matt Casbourne, Duckworth Publishers
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Proofreading
The final stage in the editorial process, the proofread acts as a final polish of your manuscript to ensure it goes out to the world looking its best. Following on from the copyedit, the proofread focuses on:
- spelling, grammar and punctuation
- capitalisation and hyphenation
- consistency of chosen styles
- formatting and typesetting issues
- ensuring any style guide is implemented
Price: from £7.50 per 1000 words.