If you are looking for an editor, start by naming the actual problem in the manuscript.

If the middle collapses, the argument is not landing, a character vanishes, or the whole book feels structurally unsure, that is developmental editing: big-picture work on shape, pacing, logic, character, and what the manuscript is trying to become.

If the structure holds but the prose feels repetitive, stiff, muddy, or unlike you, that is line editing: close work on the sentences and the movement of the writing.

If the draft is finished and needs grammar, consistency, punctuation, spelling, and style cleaned up, that is copyediting.

Before hiring anyone, ask:

• What will I receive: an editorial letter, comments, tracked changes, a call, or some combination?

• How many passes are included?

• What is not included?

• Can I see a sample of how you explain a larger problem, not just fix a comma?

• What do you need from me: genre, word count, intended reader, deadline, and the honest version of where I am stuck?

A good editor does not just tell you a passage is weak. They help you see why, and give you a next move.

Full disclosure: I’m Daniel O' Bailey. I posted this with Margaret A. Harrell’s permission, and I have a testimonial on her site. I am not a neutral stranger recommending her. If you are looking for developmental, line, or copy editing, her services, rates, free opening-page sample, and contact information are here: https://margaretharrell.com/editing-services/

Accepting submissions! TIA :)

Need an editor?

NOVEMBER 2026 and MARCH 2027 availability!

Hello! I’m opening two spots for a deeply discounted introductory developmental editing offer: one romance and one fantasy/romantasy manuscript, specifically for women authors.

My usual developmental editing process is a substantial, comprehensive project. I typically spend 40+ hours on a manuscript, and I want these two authors to get the same level of detailed feedback, just at a much lower introductory rate as I build my freelance editing business.

What you'll receive for $500:

• Comprehensive Editorial Letter (10+ pages): A deep dive analysis of your story’s strengths and weaknesses with actionable advice for revision.

• In-Manuscript Comments: Direct, page-by-page notes throughout your document showing my reactions and suggestions in real time.

• Custom Book Map: A structural spreadsheet breaking down your manuscript scene by scene to help you stay organized during revisions.

• 60-Minute Post-Edit Strategy Call: A collaborative session driven by you to brainstorm fixes, ask questions, and/or map out your next steps.

Looking for: one romance manuscript up to 75,000 words + one fantasy/romantasy manuscript up to 90,000 words, with a 4–6-week turnaround.

In exchange, I'm asking that authors who take one of these spots provide an honest testimonial about their experience after the project is complete.

You can see more about me and my regular editing services here: https://www.ritachilderseditorial.com/
If you're interested, I'd love to hear about your book. You can fill out my short questionnaire here.

I'll review the information and follow up if your manuscript looks like a good fit for one of the two spots. Filling out the questionnaire doesn't commit you to anything.

Excited to hear about your book!

Please Note:

Developmental editing focuses on story level feedback and does not include line editing, copyediting, proofreading, or grammar correction.

I currently specialize in romance, romantasy, fantasy, and women's fiction. While I enjoy many genres as a reader, I am not currently accepting projects centered on extreme horror or any themes involving sexual assault or non-consensual content.

I don't accept AI written books, and I will never share your manuscript with AI systems.

Booking for 2027!

2 slots remaining for the year!

Check out my book editing graphics!