FAQ

1. Do I double-space my manuscript? You can. Legacy publishers used to ask for this when they required paper copies. Today, when features to change screen size, font size, and all sorts of word processing gizmos are available, double-spacing is a moot point. As long as the text is clear on the page in a 12-point font with one-inch margins (the eyes prefer more white space), then the rest doesn’t matter so much. Do avoid purple 18-point font, page borders, and putting everything in bold. My editing eyes thank you. 
2. How long does editing take? This depends on the size of the book and the level of editing required, mostly. Deeper edits take longer. The average is two to three weeks. Sometimes up to six weeks.
3. Will my work be kept confidential? Yes. All work is kept confidential. The work is discussed or shared only between writer and editor.
4. Can I include illustrations or images in my manuscript? No, thank you. Just the text, please. Only the text. Avoid formatting with fancy fonts or page designs that software like MS Word provides. Any designing of the book should happen after the editing stage in, you guessed it, the design stage. Anything more than black text on white will slow this editor’s work. I like working efficiently.
5. Is there a contract we sign? Yes, there is an agreement, and a copy of that is emailed before work begins.
6. How do I pay you? E-transfers are fast and efficient. PayPal is also accepted.
7. What if I don’t like some or all of your edits? Honestly, you'll disagree on some. That’s okay and totally expected. That’s how it should be, actually. Edits are never must-change markings, though they are strong suggestions, and some may comments that elaborate. As editor, I am merely the purveyor of suggestions. You’re the author and publisher of the book, so you have final say.
8. Do you write blurbs too? I can. I have. They’re fun! If you need help with blurbs, we can discuss this.
9. Do you charge reading fees? This is a separate service designated as Beta Reading. It is a precursor to editing and in no way obligates writers using this service to purchase editing services. See Services for more info.
10. Do you offer sensitivity reading? If sensitivity reading is important for your book, I recommend hiring someone who specializes in that service. Your local writing group or online writing groups may help with this.
11. Can you recommend a cover designer? Sorry, not at this time.
12. Can you give me a review of my book? Unfortunately, my ethics prevent me from providing reviews of books I’ve edited.
13. ​Can you help with marketing and publicity? I restrict my services to editing at this time.
14. Are there genres you don’t edit? I’m a bit of a chameleon when it comes to books—a story is a story, after all (yes, even non-fiction). For the most part, I’m open to editing any genre. That said, I do have preferences such as women’s fiction, romance, children’s books and poetry. I love a good horror book or anything with fangs. See my fav fiction list!
15. What kind of content do you not accept? I don’t edit scripts or screenplays. There are few genres I wouldn’t consider; it really depends on the premise, the author’s voice, and since it’s me doing the editing work, whether I want affiliation with it. If there is extreme prejudice or the content runs afoul, then I may decline the work. Ultimately, I need to like the book to justify dedicating several weeks to editing it.
16. My book didn’t sell after I used your services? Now what? I’m sorry to hear of it, truly. Nothing more disheartening than a book that languishes on real or e-shelves. While editing helps with text fluidity, narrative construction, and a clean presentation that make you look like a professional author, it is true that marketing is a whole separate beast. Thank you for considering editing as part of your marketing efforts. You may wish to revisit your marketing plan, strategies, and goals, and revamp how your book fits your readership and how to reach your readers.
17. Do you work with only Canadian authors? I love supporting Canadian authors, and while most of my clients are Canadian, I have worked with many writers from around the world and hope to continue.
18. I’m nearly finished my manuscript. Will you edit chapter by chapter? No. Only a complete manuscript is doable. The reason is that working one chapter at a time is a self-defeating effort and a huge waste of time. Books need to be approached considering macro aspects of the narrative, even at the copy edit level because tending to smaller issues in chapter order of the book won’t fix the bigger ones. The saying cart before the horse comes to mind.
19. What kind of books have you edited? Both fiction and non-fiction: business, children’s, commercial, contemporary fiction, epic fantasy, fantasy, literary, memoir, mystery, motivational, paranormal, poetry, romance, self-help, spiritual, women’s fiction, young adult.
20. Can you recommend any writing webinars, courses, or books on writing? Several. The Surrey International Writers’ Conference happens every October. So worth attending! If that’s outside your pocketbook, then there are plenty of free webinars and tutorials online. Get collegiate with YouTube and search by keyword. As for books, see my Q&A. 
21. What else can I do to improve my writing? Read lots, write plenty. Read a variety of genres and content. Write as much as you can. Study others’ writing styles. Study grammar – I mean, really study it as it’s the lifeblood of your directorial ingenuity. Let your voice and personal style develop with practice. Be daring.