Book Editing Services
Let’s get a second set of eyes on your manuscript before sending it to agents or preparing it for independent publishing. I’ll give you the constructive feedback you need to help your story shine. I’m not afraid to point out inconsistencies, misspellings, differences between British and American English, and confusing plot points, but I’ll also make sure to let you know what’s working well!
I specialize in editing fiction—fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian, mysteries, thrillers! Please note that I don’t provide editing services for books involving excessive levels of gore, open-door spice, or on-page abuse. Thank you!
Primary Services
For the calendar year 2025, all primary book editing services are charged at a rate of $.0035/word for the first pass of a manuscript. Authors wanting more than one service can opt for extra rounds of edits, charged at a discounted rate of $.0018/word each. Pricing is subject to change; book now to reserve your project at current rates.
Developmental Edit
$.0035/word
When it’s time to start cleaning up that first draft. Works through the biggest story elements like pacing, character development, and point of view.
Copy Edit
$.0035/word
Refining the smaller details of the manuscript’s grammar, syntax, punctuation, formatting, clarity, and continuity.
Line Edit
$.0035/word
To accentuate, embellish, and strengthen the artistry of your unique author voice through tone, variety, usage, and prose. This is also a great resource for cutting down on the word count for a lengthy manuscript.
Additional Services
Sample Edit
FREE
I’ll edit your first chapter (up to 4,000 words) free of charge so that you know what to expect when you hire me to edit your book. Make sure we’re a good fit!
Manuscript Evaluation
$100
For writers who are wondering, “Where do I even start with the editing process?”
I evaluate both partial and complete manuscripts. Includes an editorial letter of assessment to provide you with guidance on your next steps.
Proofreading
$.003/word
The final read-through to catch any typos or lingering distractions in the manuscript. Proofreads are only offered for manuscripts that have had previous editing work done and that are formatted for publishing.
Brainstorming Session
$50
Stuck somewhere in the drafting? I’d love to connect and help you workshop some ideas. We’ll get the words flowing again and get you excited about your work!
Query Letter Support
$120
Preparing to query agents? Let’s jump on a call and create a game plan! I’ll read through your query letter draft and provide suggestions for strengthening it.
Book Design
$0.85/page
This is the first year I’m offering book design services, from interior formatting to covers. Get more information and fill out the interest form here.
FAQs
What are your editorial qualifications?
I obtained my B.A. in Editing & Publishing with a Minor in Applied Speech Sciences from Brigham Young University-Provo. My program included specialized coursework and training in the Chicago Manual of Style, the Copyeditor’s Workbook, the Adobe Creative Suite (typesetting novels for print), Modern American Usage, Global English Dialects, Specialized Editing for Novels, Conference Pitching, and more.
I’ve edited for multiple journals, including one as Assistant Managing Editor, published various articles on editorial topics, and edited several independent novel projects. I’ve had my own short stories, articles, and writing published. I’ve also pitched to agents and acquisition editors at in-person writing conferences and received multiple manuscript requests.
At what point should I book you for edits?
I’m currently only taking one editing client per month, so if you know what month you’ll be ready to send me your manuscript for editing, reach out and we can get you on the schedule. Developmental edits are usually done after a first draft is completed. Copy and line edits usually come after alpha/beta reading. Proofreading is done after a book has been formatted for print.
If you’re not sure when you’ll be done, you can always reach out to get on my waitlist or inquire about my availability and book a deadline to hold yourself accountable!
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, all services are contracted and require a non-refundable deposit. That deposit amount will be either 25% of your total Service Fee or a flat $50, whichever is less. The deposit contributes to your total Service Fee and is due upon booking.
Do you do payment plans?
Yes. Let me know at the time of booking services if you’ll need arrangements for a payment plan and we can include those details in your contract.
How should I send my manuscript?
You may share it as a Google doc or a word document. Depending on the service you book, I will either leave in-line comments or prepare a separate form for you with my feedback as necessary. Do not send your manuscript until after your contract is signed.
How long will my edits take?
Turnaround time estimates depend on the length of the manuscript. Plan on at least 4 weeks for most editing jobs.
Do you do rush jobs?
Yes, as long as a rushed edit does not interfere with my other client projects, I can rush your editing job for an additional 15% of your Service Fee.
Do you have a referral discount?
Yes! If you refer a friend and they book any service with me, you will receive a 10% discount on your next editing job.
Hannah L. Ackerman Portfolio 