Services
Editing Services
Content Editing
A content edit (aka developmental edit or substantive edit) is a macro edit that looks at the manuscript as a whole. For nonfiction, it includes review of theme, goals, format, structure, consistency, readability, and voice. For fiction, it includes review of plot and structure, pacing, voice, setting, dialogue, characterization, point of view, and show vs. tell.
Line Editing
A line edit combines a copyedit (correction of punctuation, grammar, word usage, etc.) with the rewriting of sentences to improve readability, flow, and rhythm, and to eliminate wordiness and redundancies. At the same time, care is taken to retain the author’s style and voice.
Copyediting
A copyedit corrects punctuation, grammar, spelling, and word usage, as well as points out and provides suggestions for correcting issues with sentence structure, clarity, and organization. At the same time, care is taken to retain the author’s style and voice.
Proofreading
Proofreading fixes indisputable errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and word usage. In most cases, it follows at least one previous editing stage and serves as a final review of a very clean manuscript.
Manuscript Critique
Manuscript critique identifies a fiction manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses. Feedback is provided on the manuscript and in an editorial letter, covering the book’s plot, conflict, setting, dialogue, characterization, point of view, show vs. tell, etc. Strengths are pointed out, and recommendations are given for addressing weaknesses.
Unsure what editorial services would be best?
We’re happy to look at your manuscript and provide recommendations.
OTHER Services
Interior Book Design
Professional interior design provides an aesthetically pleasing experience for the reader, whether the book is in print or ebook format. Both PDF (print) and EPUB (ebook) files are provided. Does not include editorial services.
Publishing Assistance
Independent publishing doesn’t have to be daunting. We can assist with everything from writing your back cover copy, author bio, and retailer blurb . . . to obtaining your ISBNs, copyright, and CIP block . . . to finding a cover designer . . . to navigating Amazon KDP, IngramSpark, and Kindle Unlimited vs. “going wide.”
GENRE SPECIALTIES
Fiction
Most genres accepted. Specialties include
- Christian/inspirational fiction
- Historical fiction (especially 18th and 19th century America)
- Contemporary and historical romance
- Women’s fiction
- Mystery/suspense
Exceptions: We do not provide services for manuscripts containing erotica, horror, or gratuitous sex or violence.
Nonfiction
Most genres accepted. Specialties include
- Christian living
- Bible studies
- Devotionals
- Medical, health/fitness, and specialty diets
How It Works
- Using the Contact page, describe your manuscript (genre, word count), its target audience, your plans for publishing (traditional, independent), and your time frame. Request a no-cost sample edit (two to three pages, approximately 500–750 words). This helps you determine if the editing style is right for you, and it allows us to ascertain that the requested service is what’s needed. Along with the sample edit, you’ll receive a quote and time frame for completion of the service(s).
- Should you decide to use Avodah Editorial Services, a contract and an invoice will be emailed to you about a week before the edit’s start date. Half (50%) of the fee is due at the start of the edit. Payment can be made by personal or business check, PayPal, Venmo, bank account transfer, or credit card.
- Your manuscript will be edited using MS Word’s Track Changes feature. Chicago Manual of Style 17th Ed. (and Christian Writer’s Manual of Style for Christian manuscripts) will be used as style guides unless you specify otherwise. When complete, the manuscript will be emailed to you.
- The remaining 50% of the fee is due within 5 days of the edit’s completion.
- Feel free to contact us with any further questions. Testimonials from clients help other writers who are searching for an editor, so if you’re willing to write a short paragraph about your editing experience, we would greatly appreciate it.