Editorial Services

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A full content edit on a novel or non-fiction book often consists of 1-3 rounds of careful and focused read-throughs; after the first round, I provide the author with a detailed editorial memo, including line edits if necessary and helpful at this stage.  In time, the author returns  revisions, and I read the manuscript a second time, again providing an editorial memo and/or line edits in response.  If necessary, there is a third read-through after further revisions.

Some authors come to me with work that does not need a global content edit, but can use a careful, incisive hand to help hone the language.  I am always cognizant that every writer has their own voice and am careful to craft my line edits to shore up the strength of the writing without changing it drastically.  For this type of editing job, I return a line- and paragraph-specific list of structural edits and comments to the author after at least one read-through.

As a freelancer, it is particularly satisfying to be part of the creation of a work of literature, whether fiction or non-fiction, from the very beginning.  I offer my services as a conceptual editor, working closely with the writer during the entire process as they create the work -- acting as a literary midwife, in other words.  This usually involves a relatively long-term working relationship, including periods of regular communication between the writer and myself, mixed with chunks of time while the author writes on their own. 

A strong book proposal can be a difficult beast to create.  Literary agents and editors see dozens of non-fiction book proposals weekly, and writing a proposal that stands out in the crowd is an art.  I help authors craft the necessary individual sections and put together an effective proposal that honestly reflects the scope of the work and highlights the essential elements and critical selling points.

There are times when all a manuscript needs is a careful copy edit or proofread, to be certain that the author's grammar, syntax, continuity,  spelling, and punctuation are clean and error-free.  I offer a diligent copyediting and proofreading service, with meticulous attention to detail, using the appropriate style manual (usually Elements of Style, the Chicago Manual of Style, or the APA or MLA style manuals).

My freelance fee structure is either an hourly rate or a negotiated project-based flat fee, usually payable in installments.  I am happy to discuss options to find a mutually agreeable plan.

Please contact me by email at Sara@westliterary.com or phone at 707-762-7633.  

I am based in Sonoma County and regularly work with clients across the country.