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Line editing, copyediting, and proofreading: Examples of how different the services can be

My specialist area is line editing (which includes combined line and copyediting for indie authors).

Please note that fiction is generally cheaper per word than non-fiction.

Imaginary clients

Prices for line editing, copyediting, and proofreading vary drastically, so here are a few imaginary examples of what each service would include for what price. If you want to know more about the nuts and bolts of my different services, click here.

As you can see, the needs, experience, and language backgrounds of the authors affect my pricing, which is why I need a sample from the middle of your novel to quote.

All authors can pay for a final read through (recommended if not hiring a proofreader) for an extra $5 per 1000 words.

Anya (she/her)

Anya is a new author. Her first language is English and she lives in Edinburgh. She wants extensive feedback and comments on an early draft of her novel. She is looking for detailed editorial feedback to improve her craft.

I recommend a heavy line edit with editorial comments and suggestions and charge $40 per 1000 words for a single pass.

Martin (he/him)

Martin’s first language is German, and he has lived in Austria all his life. He wants his novel sample to be edited so he can send it to agents.

I recommend a combined line & copyedit and charge $35 per 1000 words for a single pass.

Tamara (she/her)

Tamara’s first language is Spanish and she has lived in London for ten years. She wants to self-publish her first novel.

I recommend a combined line & copyedit and charge $28 per 1000 words for a single pass

Alex (they/them)

Alex is a new author and they live in Los Angeles. English is their first language. Like Tamara, they want to self-publish their first novel.

I recommend a combined line & copyedit and charge $25 per 1000 words for a single pass.

Fred (genderqueer)

Fred is an indie author who has published five novels already, speaks English as a first language and lives in New Jersey.

He’s used to working with editors already, supplies a style sheet, and tells me they need a copyedit.

I recommend a combined line & copyedit and charge $20 per 1000 words.

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