What role do IEs serve in today’s publishing world?

Independent editors help to solidify story ideas and strengthen weak areas such as low tension, lack of conflict or characterization. They work directly with authors to develop and polish their manuscript before submitting it to an agent or, occasionally, at the request of agent regarding a manuscript that is 90% of the way there.  

Are all IEs the same?

No. Some provide complete manuscript editing services, while others specialize in certain areas such as story development. Find one suited to your individual goals as a writer.

What are my rights in working with an editor?

1. Know exactly what services you’ll receive and how you will be charged.
2. It is permissible to ask for references or a sample of the editor’s work.
3. Estimated time lines, fees and services should be provided free of charge and put in writing before the editing process begins. Authors pay only for work performed on their manuscript.

How can I identify a good independent editor?

1. Industry knowledge, particularly in your genre
2. The ability to further an author’s existing vision of a manuscript, not make it their own.
3. Good editors take time to clarify author goals, identify what is working and what isn’t and provide support to authors in going forward with their careers.
4. Reputable editors DO NOT CHARGE READING FEES or pay or receive money for referrals from other editors, authors, agents or publishers.

How does an independent editor differ from an acquisitions editor at a publishing house?

Editors at many top publishing houses have experienced increased workloads, resulting in less attention for individual authors. Independent editors often fill that void.  They work on behalf of authors to polish or grow their stories. Independent editors are not employed by publishing houses.

Will working with an independent editor guarantee I get published?

No. The goal is to help create a more marketable manuscript. Hiring an independent editor does not guarantee publication or agent representation.  Editors who make such guarantees are not reputable editors. Similarly, the number of revisions needed may fluctuate from one manuscript to the next or one author to the next, depending on skill, speed, the number of problems apparent in a manuscript and knowledge of the craft.

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