In Need of a Story Fix?

Connolly Freelance

Proofreading and Editing Services

Women's Fiction Manuscripts

Sweet/Inspirational/Historical Romance

Nonfiction Manuscripts

Many of my writer friends and acquaintances and past clients have asked for an update of the proofreading and editing services I offer aside from the joyful critiquing I do with my Scribes 218 partners.  As a  freelance copy editor I provide that extra pair of eyes needed to give fiction or nonfiction manuscripts a more thorough review of content and structure, a more appropriate level of editing that will match the author's specific needs. Outside the help I provide as line editor to small presses, included here is a summary of my individual freelance editing services -- rates standard to the industry.   

All authors need that editorial review and fine tuning of their manuscript before it's submitted to the publisher. The eyes of someone else can often see those common and sometimes overlooked errors the writer who cherishes her baby (the manuscript) might neglect to catch. 

We, as authors, are simply too close to our work.

Both traditionally published and self-published books demand excellence. Competition is fierce; to be able to find and keep an audience means we must do our best with our overall first impression. Our work be free from structural problems, typos, and grammatical errors. 

After I wrote my first couple of books, I discovered how disheartening it was to find a number of mistakes upon my first read. By then, it was too late to do anything about it. I decided immediately to hone my own past editing experience so I could help others not to make the same mistake.

As a freelancer, the editing process I offer is a partnership between you, the author, and me your personal editor. The type of work I proofread or edit is included below. 

Retreat Brochures, Flyers, Pamphlets

Memoirs, Books of Reflection, Devotionals

Women's Fiction, Historical Romance (Sweet, Inspirational, Edgy)

Contemporary Women's Fiction (Sweet, Inspirational, Edgy)

Novellas , Short Stories

Newspaper or Magazine Feature Articles

How-To Books, Handbooks

I prefer working with my authors electronically and all correspondences and materials will be held in strict confidence. I use the track change system with my authors with a two-part editing process. I prefer MS Word files which will be returned to the client as clean, corrected text.

My Freelance Editing and Proofreading Rates

The established industry standard for a manuscript page is 250 words. Turnaround time on most projects is negotiated between author and client (weekends not included).

I offer both page rates and hourly rates and will provide a detailed explanation upon request.

To cover some of my office supplies, there is a minimum upfront charge of $10.00 per job when contract is signed whatever the size of the project. The remainder is due according to negotiated stage for payments. Ongoing adjustments to the arrangements can be made if required. Our work together will be tailored to fit the client's personal needs. Most work can be handled through the Internet. Access is available through DropBox as well.  

Basic Proofreading manuscript up to 25,000 words: $1.50 per page (250 words) or $6.00 per 1000 words (four pages) for corrected electronic copy (MS Word file)

Basic Proofreading manuscript 25,000 to 80,000 words: $1.25/page (250 words) or $5.00 per 1000 words (four pages) for corrected electronic copy (MS Word file) 

Basic Proofreading manuscript over 80,000 words: $4.50 per 1000 words (four pages) for corrected electronic copy (MS Word file)

• Basic Proofreading includes closely examining your project for spelling, punctuation, typos, capitalization, awkward grammar, ensured readability by assessing verb tense, grammar, sentence fragments, run-on sentences, subject-verb disagreement, comma splices and other usage. 

Broad-spectrum Editing manuscript is $2.75 per page (250 words) or $11.00 per 1000 words or four pages for corrected electronic copy (MS Word file) 

• Broad-spectrum editing includes line-by-line copy editing, concentrating on logical flow, organization, structure, transition.  

Extended Proofreading manuscript is $3.00 per page (250 words) or $12.00 per 1000 words or four pages for corrected electronic copy (MS Word file.

• Extended proofreading includes overall manuscript structure, word choice, clear writing, inconsistencies, redundancies)

Deep Editing manuscript is $3.50 per page (250 words) or $14.00 per 1000 words (four pages) for corrected electronic copy (MS Word file)

• Deep Editing includes plot or narration balance, believable characters or situations, phrasing ambiguities, levels of diction, rhythm and colloquialisms, consistency, theme, style, clarity, concision, tone and audience appropriateness. 

                                                 

Feel free to contact me by email (connolly.shirley@att.net) to discuss your personal project. Please put EDITING/PROOFREAD REQUEST in subject line.