Editing Services

Brenda Chin's Editing Services

The Coach Approach

One of the things I learned while I was at Harlequin is that it’s easier for an author to write if he/she knows the story is moving in the right direction.

So, I’ve come up with the Coach Approach!

In a nutshell, the Coach Approach is a pre-emptive read.

If you choose this service, I will evaluate those critical first one hundred pages (25,000 words) and synopsis, then give you feedback so you can make sure the bones of the story are good and the writing is on the right track before you get too far into the book. This is something I do with my authors and it saves a lot of time and effort in the end. Includes a phone call to discuss revision suggestions, with follow-up phone call if needed.

Pricing:

$300 (if this is the only service requested)

$200 (if added to a developmental edit)

$150 (if added to a complete developmental/line edit)


Developmental Edit – 1.5 cent per word

In a basic developmental edit, I’ll go through your manuscript with an eye for areas you could improve. Things like characterization, pace, conflict, setting, In a basic developmental edit, I’ll go through your manuscript with an eye for areas you could improve. Things like characterization, pace, conflict, setting, romance/sexual tension, plot problems, etc. are all elements I’ll be looking at. I’ll make comments on the manuscript itself (using Track Changes in Microsoft Word), so you’ll see where the issue comes up, and put together a page of notes indicating areas of concern. And I always make it a point to arrange for a phone call first, so there is no confusion, and we’re on the same page right from the beginning.

Another thing I’ll often do at this stage, is offer some suggestions for ways to fix issues.

Honestly, this is my favorite part of the process. In this stage of the game, consider me your editor and your critique partner. Because I still work with several publishers, I have a good idea of what’s going on in the market. I can let you know if you’re using a story element that’s been done to death, or if you’re relying too heavily on tropes and clichés to move your story forward.  We want your manuscript to be fresh, and something readers won’t put down.

Developmental/Line Edit

This is a two-part edit—the developmental edit above, and then a line-by-line This is a two-part edit—the developmental edit above, and then a line-by-line edit, where I look at inconsistencies, repetition, grammar, spelling issues, unnatural dialogue, and general awkward phrasing, among other things. This is NOT a copyedit. I have some copyediting knowledge, and will incorporate that into my edit, but I suggest you find a copyeditor to go after me, if that’s something you’re worried about. In most cases, however, a good proofread is all I usually suggest.

Because line-edits can be labor-intensive, I have two different rates, depending on how much work the manuscript requires. Which category your manuscript falls into is solely at my discretion. However, I will let you know which type of edit I suggest for your story before I start.

Developmental edit and regular line-edit – 2.5 cents per word.

Changes are made on the manuscript using Track Changes. I’ll be looking at errors, repetition, etc. (see above), but overall, the manuscript itself should be in fairly good shape.

Developmental edit and heavy line-edit – 4 cents per word

This rate comes into play when a manuscript arrives a little rougher, something that often happens when an author is just starting out or when the writing has been rushed. Whatever the reason, a rough manuscript requires more time and energy on my part, and therefore, it demands a different rate.


Other services

Editorial Assessment – $5.00 a page (includes two passes—one for revision, one for final check)

Do you want to make sure your submission makes a positive first impression when it lands on an editor’s desk? Are you targeting a certain house, a certain series? Do you need information that you can only get from someone who’s been in the business a long time?

If so, I’m your girl. And while I can’t make any publication promises, I can help you put together a professional proposal, one that pops, and gives an editor no obvious reason to refuse.

Cover Copy – $75

Your book’s blurb is one of your most important tools to create sales (second only to the cover itself). But writing cover copy is hard. So why not let me help you? I’ve been writing cover copy as long as I’ve been editing, and I know what it takes to grab a reader’s attention. I’m comfortable playing around with format, point of view…you name it. And more importantly, I understand what it takes to stand out in this market. 

I ask that you send a first draft of the cover copy, as well as a synopsis of the manuscript.


Payment

Payment can be made via PayPal. For all projects, half of the total cost should be paid up front, and the other half must be paid upon delivery, unless other arrangements are made. Standard turnaround times are between 20 and 25 business days. Rush projects can be accommodated for an increased fee. Please email for details.