Do I need an editor?
Almost certainly! Even the best writers need an editor – it’s nothing to do with quality of writing and everything to do with having more than one pair of eyes looking at the copy. Editors not only correct punctuation, they also spot plot holes and narrative inconsistencies. Which editor you need depends on your own strengths and weaknesses. If you struggle to construct your book, a developmental editor would help. If you’ve written your book but just need it cleaned up, a copy editor should be your next step.
Do you only work with self-publishing authors?
No. Although I specialise in supporting authors through the self-publishing process, I also work with authors who intend to pitch to agents and publishers. I am happy to help tidy up copy in readiness for that process.
What does an editor do?
Developmental editors look at the big picture, the story arc. They look at character development, the strength of the story, whether it progresses, if the themes it contains match the genre the author is aiming for, consistency of viewpoint, etc.
Line editors look at sentence structure and writing style to make sure you’re using the best terms and language to convey your story, that you are using the correct point of view to impart a particular mood, that you’re not repeating yourself, etc.
Copy editors look closely at grammar, spelling, syntax, punctuation, etc. They make sure everything makes sense, that paragraphs are formatted correctly, that there are no single quotes where there should be doubles, that style is consistent… But there is a sort of lurching into line editor territory here, and a copy editor will point out where something doesn’t make sense or is ambiguous.
Proofreaders get involved at the final galley check, reading for typos, formatting errors, making sure page numbers haven’t dropped off, etc. It’s basically a final quality check.
Do I need to ask permission to use images?
Almost always, yes. The person who creates an image, photo or artwork will generally be the first owner of the copyright. If they were working for an employer, that business or person might own the copyright. In the UK, copyright in images lasts for the life of the creator plus 70 years from the end of the calendar year of their death. Suffice to say, you should always track down the copyright owner and ask permission to use their material! (That’s assuming you want to use copyright images in a book you intend to sell. There are fair use justifications for freely sharing photos, etc, in personal use.) See gov.uk/government/publications/copyright-notice-digital-images-photographs-and-the-internet/copyright-notice-digital-images-photographs-and-the-internet to find out more.
Does one editor fit all?
Do you offer free sample edits?
Do I need an ISBN?
Having an ISBN is not a legal requirement but if you’re publishing your book for sale, it is advisable to get one. The International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique product identifier for books used by publishers, booksellers and libraries for ordering, listing and stock control. Find out more via nielsenisbnstore.com/Home/Isbn