On a background of a blue sky, the logo E before i and the words Nonfiction Editorial Services. Email address ebeforei.xyz@gmail.com. Tagline is Upending the patriarchy through copyediting.
 

Nonfiction Editing

Does having your manuscript edited scare you? I edit books for independent authors and for publishers. The process is designed to be supportive and reassuring. My particular interest is addressing relics of the patriarchy, rewriting phrases that tacitly assume male gaze or point of view.

You and I confer on the extensiveness of the editing you want, whether it is copyediting, big structural issues, or something in between. Inclusive language is now standard in copyediting—even singular “they.” If you aren’t sure what kind of editing you need, let’s discuss a manuscript assessment.

Here’s how copyediting with E before I can help you:

  • Take the worry out of punctuation, capitalization, and spelling.

  • Reduce wordiness at the sentence level.

  • Catch inconsistencies between one chapter and another in everything from hyphenation to verifiable facts.

  • Identify passages that aren't quite resonating.

  • Connect with the audience.

  • Break away from clichés based on sex, race, size, ability, sexual orientation, and gender expression.

Before opening my editing business, I worked in public health management at state health agencies and national nonprofit associations. Writing and editing were built into all those jobs.

My experience is mostly nonfiction, but I am open to fiction in the form of cozy mystery or feminist romance. I also edit publications for nonprofits promoting equity and social justice.

Let’s upend the patriarchy.

Black and white photo of open book with reading glasses, teapot , and cup. Text says It's your writing. Let's make it dance.

It’s your writing.
Let’s make it dance.

What does it cost?

I’ll give you a quote after I see the project. I offer a sample edit at $75 for 1,000 words (credited against the contract if we work together) to demonstrate what you will get. Rates depend on the complexity of the project and the types of editing needed.
Sample edit example.

An assessment to determine the type of editing I recommend is based on the manuscript length. Typical costs are $100 to $200.

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What does an editor do?

When I edit a manuscript, I standardize punctuation, spelling, grammar, and formatting; address awkward word choices; note where meaning or action is unclear; verify spelling of proper names and places; and make suggestions you can approve or reject. Manuscripts are edited in Microsoft Word. Your manuscript should be finished before I start editing. All work is confidential.

 

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E before I, LLC. Established 2019.