editing services
My editing philosophy is to uplift your voice, never to drown it out.
As an author myself, I understand that your manuscript is precious. The time, effort, and dedication it takes to write a novel from scratch is insurmountable. At DeLained Editing Co., I pride myself in treating each and every story with the respect and grace it deserves. Not every manuscript will require the same editing service. Let’s figure out together what will enhance your story.
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Copy editing
A copy edit focuses on the technical aspects of writing. Correcting grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, syntax—all the mechanical language elements. I ensure that the text is clear, concise, and accurate. Wordiness and “purple prose” are often eliminated. Facts are checked, word choices are considered, and terminologies are tweaked.
A copy edit is ideal for manuscripts that feel grounded, but could use a refinement that focuses on grammar, structure, factual accuracy, and consistency.
$.0085 PER WORD
ideal if you…
have a solid foundation in plot and structure
desire your writing to be crisp, clean, and clear
want to ensure your language style is consistent and cohesive
line editing
$.01 PER WORD
A line edit is a more detail-oriented and structure-focused version of a copy edit. I tackle sentence structure and take an overarching view of your story, ensuring that the writing flows throughout. I work on heightening tone, enhancing writing style, and increasing immersion. Sentences are restructured, messy prose is tidied, and repetition is decreased.
A line edit is for authors who want their sentences to be sharp, memorable, and intentional. Immersion and emotion are prioritized here.
ideal if you…
have functional prose but lack a distinct voice or style
sense repetition or choppiness but aren’t sure where
are ready to go beyond grammar and into the craft of the writing
proof reading
Proofreading is the final stage of editing before your story hits the shelves. I take your manuscript line-by-line, combing for any mistakes that slipped through the cracks. I fix any grammatical errors (usually caused by typos), check basic format issues, and double-check fact-specific details. Formatting inconsistencies, such as fonts, chapter headers, and line spacing are corrected.
Proofreading is for manuscripts that have already been copy-edited and/or line-edited. It is the final polish of your manuscript, ensuring it is “shipshape”.
$.0075 PER WORD
ideal if you…
have had your manuscript at least copy edited or line edited
are confident your manuscript does not have any blaring errors
have not worked with me before with this specific manuscript
developmental editing
A developmental edit takes a big-picture look at your manuscript before the line-level work begins. I read through your story with fresh eyes, evaluating plot structure, character development, pacing, and overall cohesion. I identify issues an author may be too close to catch — inconsistencies, unclear motivations, gaps in logic, and plot holes — and deliver detailed, actionable feedback to guide your next draft.
Often the first and most essential step in the editorial process, a developmental edit sets the foundation for everything that follows.
$.012 PER WORD
ideal if you…
aren't sure your story is working before investing in higher-level editing
want specific, structured feedback on big-picture issues
want an honest reader reaction from someone outside your head
beta reading
A beta read offers a reader-first perspective on your manuscript. I move through your story as your audience would, noting real-time reactions, questions that arise, and moments that feel especially strong or unclear. I highlight what’s working, where engagement dips, and where confusion, inconsistency, or pacing issues naturally stand out.
Rather than deep analysis, beta reading focuses on instinctive response. You’ll receive general, honest feedback on clarity, flow, and overall impression, along with light suggestions for improvement.
$.006 PER WORD
aren’t sure your story, characters, or narrative choices are working
want detailed, structured feedback on plot arcs, character development, pacing, and cohesion
need clear direction on what to change, strengthen, or rework in your next draft
ideal if you…
Ready to take the plunge?
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