Will you send me a contract for the work?

Yes. Before beginning work, I will draft a contract that clearly states my services and fees. We will both sign the contract electronically before I begin working on your project.

Do you require a deposit? How much is it?

Yes. The amount of the deposit depends on the type of project and the total cost. The deposit amount and payment terms will be stated in the proposal and contract.

How do you accept payment?

I accept payment via PayPal or by check.

What is your publishing background?

In college, I was a copyeditor for my university’s newspaper and a prominent weekly newspaper, a writing consultant at the university’s writing center, and a content editor for the university’s literary journal. My first job out of college was at a book packager where I learned a vast amount about the publishing industry. Large publishers outsourced their editorial work to us, and I managed a significant portion of that work. This included copyediting and proofreading, working with authors and publishers, creating production schedules and budgets, and guiding books through all stages of production. I eventually left that job to become the managing editor for an academic trade publisher. During my time there, I completely overhauled the editorial department and significantly increased the quality of titles produced. We produced about 80 titles a year, and those titles are currently sold in 15,000 retail locations across the country.

After five years of working in-house, I decided to hang out my shingle and work independently. Freelancing has given me the opportunity to broaden my experience by working with many different publishers and types of content.

When can you start? How long will it take you to finish my project?

My schedule fills up quickly, and I am often booked two to three months in advance, so please contact me early to secure a spot in my schedule. Details about my current availability can be found on my Contact page. The time it takes me to complete your project will depend on the type of editing your manuscript needs and the length of your manuscript. I do not work on rush projects or charge rush fees because I do not believe in rushing the editorial stages of the publishing process.

Do you have at least three references?

Yes, please contact me for my references. You can also check out my testimonials page.

What is your editing method? 

I edit in Microsoft Word, and I use Track Changes to show my edits and Comments to insert queries to the author. I also adhere to a specific style manual and dictionary, and I always keep a style sheet.

What is your preferred method of communication?

My preferred method of communication is email. I am available by phone by appointment. I am also happy to schedule a time to meet you in person if we happen to be in the same area.

I live in Portland! Can we meet up to talk about my project? 

Absolutely! I love having the chance to meet with clients in person.

What are your favorite types of books to edit?

I love the variety in my work that comes with being a freelancer. I have worked on all kinds of books, fiction and nonfiction, but I particularly enjoy mysteries, thrillers, women’s fiction, memoirs, environmental nonfiction, and guidebooks. See what I’ve worked on.

Are you willing to provide an editing sample?

Yes. I will edit a 2,000-word sample to determine the amount of editing or proofreading needed. The sample will be provided to you at no charge, along with a detailed proposal. Please allow up to 5 business days for me to complete the sample edit and prepare a proposal.

How many times will you read my manuscript?

Most copyedits will have at least two passes. Proofreads will have one pass.

Do you keep a style sheet?

Yes. I keep a detailed style sheet for all copyediting and proofreading projects, and I will deliver the style sheet to you with the copyedited or proofed manuscript.

Will you look at the manuscript again after I have reviewed your changes and made revisions?

Yes. For a predetermined and agreed upon hourly rate or fixed price, I will review your responses to any queries left in the manuscript during editing, I will incorporate your changes or revisions, and I will edit any material that you added or changed during your review.

Why should I hire you?

If you are looking for quality editorial services comparable to those of a traditional publisher, you have come to the right place. I have years of real-world publishing industry experience, and I will do everything I can to make sure you have a polished manuscript ready for publication or submission to an agent or publisher. My goal is to help you become a better writer and feel more confident as you move forward in your publishing career.