EDITING

Do you need a book coach to help you complete your book? Do you have a polished manuscript that you want edited before you submit it to agents or publishers? Do you plan to self-publish? Whether you're on the first draft or final draft of your project, I can help. I offer:

	Manuscript Evaluation
	Developmental Editing
	Line Editing (Copyediting)

I am a former newspaper editor who specializes in book consultation and editing. With eleven years' editing experience, I have worked with dozens of authors of fiction and nonfiction manuscripts, including novels, memoirs, nonfiction books, and PhD dissertations. I hold a BA in English from UCLA and an MFA in Creative Writing from Mills College in Oakland. For a list of my publishing credits, visit my Writing page.

Manuscript Evaluation

Do you have a concept, a book proposal, or a rough draft that you would like evaluated before moving forward? I will provide a one- to two-page typed evaluation that includes whether I think the project is viable, general suggestions for improving the manuscript, and advice on how to proceed.

Developmental Editing

During this process, I give the author detailed feedback on plot, character development, point of view, structure, pacing, concept, tone, continuity, language, and more. My edits and comments are provided in Tracking Changes, so the author can accept or reject them as desired.

Line Editing/Copyediting

With an eagle eye for detail, I correct grammatical, typographical, spelling, and punctuation errors while suggesting improvements to the writing to avoid repetition, improve word choice, and enhance clarity. This service can be coupled with a developmental edit or contracted as a standalone service.

All fees are calculated on an hourly basis. An estimate will be provided in advance.

TESTIMONIALS

"Meghan's editing skills are impeccable. She has an eagle eye for detail, and an expert's knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and style. But more impressive than her copyediting skills is Meghan's gift for language. Her suggestions greatly improved the flow and readability of my manuscript, and converted a pretty good book into a bestseller candidate. She did a magnificent job, and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to get published. She is a pleasure to work with, and worth every penny."     -Didier Perennez, author of Lunchtime Millionaire

"Meghan is a knowledgeable editor who gives thorough, insightful feedback. She gave me great suggestions for improving Rising Shadow and taught me a lot about fiction-writing conventions along the way, including story arc, character development, and voice, as well as other tips and tricks for ensuring that my book was as polished and professional as it could be. You need only look at her blog to see the depth and breadth of her experience and her commitment to the art of writing. I highly recommend her services."     -Jacquelyn Wheeler, author of Rising Shadow and Merger

"Thank you so much for your great work on this project. You are one of the few people (other than us) who will have read through the many pages of this tome! It was a pleasure working with you. You improved our book literally one page at a time."     -Jerilyn Castillo and Peter McAnniff, authors of      The Practitioner's Guide to Investment Banking:      Mergers & Acquisitions

"Meghan's editing skills transformed my book manuscript from a dense, academic treatise to a readable, even engaging document. She did this skillfully and professionally, never presumptuous but always correct in her editorial judgment. For example, when confronted with academic jargon she always asked for explanation before making editorial judgment and recommendation. Her editing helped me secure a contract with the top university press in my academic discipline and subfield."

			-Assistant Professor, Political Science

"Finding good editorial services for a limited run publication is difficult. The search can be further exacerbated when you are trying to find someone willing to tackle a technically focused book. Even if you find someone who is willing, they might only be able to offer editing and not too much more in the way of improving flow. After shopping a few chapters of my graduate thesis around to editors, I finally went with Meghan. She offered a great combination of raw editing skills coupled with a desire to understand the material in order to offer very actionable suggestions on flow. The end result was an excellent publication."

			-Graduate Student, PhD in Physics, Cambridge University