what authors have to say about delained editing co

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“Working with DeLaine was a great experience as a first-time indie author. Not only were her services very affordable compared to the market average, but her work surpassed my expectations.

She is extremely dedicated, and she truly made me feel like she cared about my project as much as I do. Her communication skills were amazing. I knew I could reach out to her with any question at any time, and she'd respond promptly in the kindest way. Her comments on my manuscript were always insightful and lighthearted.

She opened my eyes to a lot of things I had missed during my own editing. Her services definitely helped sharpen my writing skills. I highly recommend DeLaine and plan on using her editing services again in the future!”

—R.D. Schwope, author of The Overthrown Vow

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“Working with DeLaine on My Son’s Best Man was an absolutely wonderful experience!

This was my first time working with her, and what impressed me from the beginning was her honesty. Instead of recommending services I didn’t need, she assessed my manuscript and explained that line editing and proofreading were the best fit. As an independent author, I genuinely appreciated that she wasn’t trying to sell me additional services just for the sake of it.

Her editorial suggestions were thoughtful and insightful, and they strengthened my manuscript while respecting my voice as an author. I accepted nearly all of her recommendations, and even when I chose a different direction, I appreciated the care and consideration behind her suggestions.

One of my favorite parts of the experience was reading her reactions to the story alongside her edits. Her little comments about the characters and what was happening in the book were an absolute delight! They made the editing process feel collaborative and reminded me that she wasn’t just editing words on a page—she was genuinely engaged with the story.

DeLaine was also professional, transparent about her schedule, and communicative throughout the process. She kept me informed of her progress and let me know whenever the timeline changed. And the thoughtful note she left at the end of my manuscript truly made my week.

I couldn’t have asked for a better first experience working with her. I would absolutely hire DeLaine again and wholeheartedly recommend her to any author looking for an honest, skilled, and thoughtful editor.”

—Zavari Quinn, author of My Son’s Best Man

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“Five Stars. If you’re looking for an editor, LOOK NO FURTHER.

I had the absolute pleasure of working with DeLaine on my debut novel, and I was lucky enough to work with her again on my second book. And let me tell you, I have absolutely ZERO plans to stop working with her!

First, her services are incredibly affordable, and she offers wonderful payment plans, which is such a blessing, especially for indie authors! But beyond that, what truly sets DeLaine apart is how much she genuinely CARES. She made me feel like my book mattered just as much to her as it did to me. And as an author handing over something you've poured your heart and soul into, that means EVERYTHING.

Her communication? AMAZING. Between her emails and her comments throughout my manuscript, I always felt supported. She was incredibly responsive, even when my imposter syndrome was running wild and I was questioning absolutely everything. She never made me feel silly for asking questions or needing reassurance.

Her editorial suggestions genuinely strengthened my writing while still allowing my own voice to shine through. And some of her comments? Absolutely HILARIOUS. I cannot tell you how many times I laughed while going through my edits!

One thing I especially appreciated was that editing with DeLaine felt like a collaboration, not just a list of corrections.  It wasn't just a matter of clicking "accept all changes" and moving on. She was willing to explain her thought process, listen to mine, and work together to make the writing better.

And honestly? One of my FAVORITE things was seeing her reactions to my characters and the story itself. Her little comments, excitement, and genuine responses made me feel like I'd handed my book to someone who actually loved being in that world with me. It made the entire editing process feel so much less intimidating and so much more special.

Would I hire DeLaine again? 100%. Without hesitation. In fact, I fully intend to keep working with her for as long as she'll put up with me and my characters!

I truly cannot recommend her enough. Whether you're a debut author feeling completely overwhelmed or an experienced author looking for someone who will respect your voice, challenge you in the best ways, and genuinely care about your work, DeLaine is absolutely wonderful.

Thank you, DeLaine, for not only making my books better but also helping me feel more confident in myself as an author. That is something I'll always be grateful for.”

—Mila Serene, author of Sea Salt and Scent Marks and Snowflakes and Scent Marks

frequently asked questions

(That I am happy to answer)

  • Unless you explicitly agree to work with one of DeLained Editing Co’s lovely subcontractors, every manuscript is assigned to, overseen by, and edited by myself, DeLaine Roessner.

  • Yes. Before you commit to working with me, per your request and schedule permitting, I will provide a free 1000-word sample edit. You will be able to see if you agree with my editing style and I will be able to get a feel for what kind of editing service your manuscript requires.

  • I will be able to give you a general estimate of my turnaround time once I have your approximate word count and the type of editing service you’re requesting.

    I can give you a more accurate estimate once I’m granted access to your full manuscript. I will need to evaluate the level of writing, amount of words, and the type of editing service needed in order to provide you with an approximate turnaround time.

  • I edit all manuscripts on Google Docs, utilizing the Track Changes feature. You will therefore be able to view every detail changed, small or large, and decide if you would like to accept or reject the suggestion. Your writing belongs to you; it is your job to take what editing suggestions apply and leave what don’t.

  • Payments are in three installments.

    • there is a 25% booking deposit

    • another 25% is paid upon delivery of the manuscript but prior to editing

    • the final 50% is paid upon project completion, but before I send you the final, completely edited manuscript

    See Terms and Conditions for more.

  • Yes, of course. Though even without an NDA (or similar document), your writing is always protected. [See Terms and Conditions Privacy & Confidentiality clause].

    As per the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, an author has an implicit copyright of both unpublished and published manuscripts.

  • A thousand times NO. Not only does it go against every value I have as a creator, publishers and book platforms will outright reject any books that are suspected of having used AI. I highly recommend any author to not use AI in any way, shape, or form when writing their novel. Your writing should always stay your writing. Let your editor or peer reviewer help you if you’re stuck on an idea.