Will you take on any potential client?

No. For one thing, I only take on romance. As long as romance is the main genre, even if you also have a sub-genre of science fiction, fantasy, suspense, thriller, etc. then I will consider it. Bottom line, it has be about the romance. With that said, if you have a light cozy mystery with elements of light, but unmistakable romance, I will consider that, also. I won't consider anything other than that at this time, however, I may open up to other genres at any given point, so keep an eye on this space in case that changes.

Second, even with an editor's skill, sometimes a manuscript can need help in a way that would be better provided by someone else. Every skill set has a certain level to it, and if I feel that I'm not the right person to take on a manuscript, I will decline services. I only want the best for my clients and will not give them anything less! If I'm in the middle of working on your manuscript and I get to a point where I feel I can't completely help you the way I thought I could, I will let you know. (That will be the only case where I will return a percentage of the money given to me, and only keep a certain amount for the work that I have done, down payment included.)

I also have to be passionate about the story, similar to an agent's need to have passion for any manuscript they choose to represent. If the story is not connecting with me, it may compromise how well I can help you. I'd rather decline services than risk anything like that.

I'm also not the best person for christian/inspirational stories.

If you're booked solid during a time when I need editing assistance, does that mean you won't take me on?

Not necessarily. It depends on what kind of services you need. Queries and synopses will take far less time than partial and full manuscripts. If I'm unable to help you with a bigger project, but you still need help with something smaller, then I still may be able to help you.

You only accept non-refundable down payments. What if something comes up and I have no choice but to cancel? Does that mean I still won't get my refund?

Circumstances happen and that's understandable. Keep in mind that many people choose to have an editor because their manuscript needs work before sending it out to agents and acquiring editors. If you happen to get a publishing deal or agent representation, it means your manuscript wasn't in serious need of editing services. Only seek help BEFORE querying your work so things like this don't happen.

If there is something else going on in your life that's preventing us from working together, that's something else entirely. In cases like that, I'll be more than happen to reschedule. It'll keep our agreement in place and no one will lose anything in the process.

How long will it take before you're finished going over my work?

It will depend on how much I'm doing at the time and how big a project it is. My turnaround time is usually two to three weeks, but depending on the package plan, the timing may vary, so please give me a little patience. I will keep you informed throughout the process and when I'll most likely be done. I will also inform you if it's taking a little longer than anticipated. If you're working on a deadline, let me know upfront and I'll sure to work as fast as I can to get the work back to you in due time.

Many editors ask for GMC when taking on a client. Will you do the same?

Yes! GMC, which is goals, motivation, and conflict, is needed as the base so that I can know exactly what's going on within your plot. In other words, it's your plot's foundation where the story is built upon. Without that, you have no story. Getting this determined will help with any flaws, not only in your manuscript, but your query and synopsis as well. This is something you should already know. But for me, I have to have it up front since my eyes are fresh to the world that you've written.

Do you also edit novellas?

Absolutely! Novellas will be handled on a case by case basis, so you would have to contact me for more information, depending on what you need.

What is your step by step service process?

With any editing service or package you're seeking, I will first read and evaluate your work and write edit notes for each chapter's strengths and weaknesses. I will also write you a formal editing letter, detailing what I thought worked within the overall story and what I think can improve. The editing letter will contain full details to help you understand where things might have went wrong, and how the stronger areas can help bring out the weaker areas. (If I'm confused about something and need your input before continuing my critiquing, I'll send you an email.)

Once you receive the editing letter, we can discuss it together and you can begin working on fixing said problems, checking back with me on your progress, plus anything else that has to be done. It's up to you as the writer to have the final say and how you want to implement the changes. If there are any revision changes that don't work for you because you think it will compromise your vision, feel free to say no. We can discuss that together and where we can take things from there.

For "evaluation only" packages, the process is similar but the only difference would be once I give you the editing letter, you're on your own and you can decide to incorporate my suggestions or not, and move on. In this case, feel free to contact me for another booking or, if it's in your best interest, find another editor.

Keep in mind that once you finish the first draft of your manuscript take it upon yourself to give it a few self edits and revisions to make sure your plot is strong enough for professional editing in case your manuscript needs a major rewrite, which is something I can't help you with.

For developmental editing/consultations, this is the only time when you can send me something that isn't complete. Here, I'll counsel you on how to build the story/plot, how you can build you characters to make them as realistic as possible, help you keep the pacing strong and consistent, how to improve the voice if needed, and how to tighten the story once it's all in place. This will be a case by case basis.

What is your preferred communication style?

At the present time, email is best suitable for me. This way it will be easier for both of us, but especially any potential client, to be able to go back and look at any detailed explanation on record. Plus it's more convenient since I have a chaotic schedule.

Your payment method of choice is paypal. But can I pay in installments if I'm unable to pay the entire amount up front?

Yes. Although I prefer upfront payments, times are hard for many people so I completely understand if you don't always have the money to pay in full. This is one reason why I prefer non-refundable down payments; because times are rough for me, as well. If paying me in installments makes this easier for you, I have no problem with it. Keep in mind that we have to discuss when the installments will be paid and come to an agreement. Please don't take advantage of this option by not paying the money you owe me. That would force me to desist installment payment plans, and I'd really hate to do that for those who need my help, but are also struggling with money.