Editing Services

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Maybe you know exactly what you need, and that’s great. But if this is your first book, you probably feel a bit overwhelmed as you consider hiring an editor. Below is a basic overview of the types of editing I offer, with links to more information; however, I will be happy to read a writing sample and discuss your specific needs.

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Copy Editing

If you do not plan to make any further content changes, you might be ready for copy editing. Copy editing focuses on grammar and style, not content or creativity, throughout your entire manuscript. I will polish grammar, spelling, punctuation, syntax, and style consistency on your final draft, in your words. And don’t underestimate the power of proper punctuation—often the miracle cure for unreadable manuscripts.

Click to learn more and see if you’re ready for manuscript copy editing.

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Line Editing

If you want fiction help that goes beyond fixing objective errors, without altering your story or structure, line editing might be perfect for you. ​Line editing focuses on creativity and readability at the sentence, paragraph, and scene levels to elevate your prose and find story inconsistencies. I will identify and help fix issues such as overused words and phrases, clunky sentence structure, weak transitions, and “head hopping.”

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Click to learn more and find out if you need fiction line editing.

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Coaching or Developmental Editing

If you are still writing your story and need help with broad or specific concerns or if you would like general coaching to improve your writing, let’s discuss your needs and see how I can help.

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Learn more about coaching and developmental editing.

If your schedule or budget allows for only one round of editing before publishing, I highly recommend a copy edit. But unless you are completely satisfied with your final draft, a line edit would be better. Not sure what you need? Send a sample of your writing and ask to see the difference.

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About Me, Audra Gerber

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In addition to my education and experience, being a low-key bookworm makes me an ideal editor. I’m patient and kind, even through constructive comments, because effective feedback doesn’t have to be harsh. And rather than give gratuitous praise, I gush when an author strikes literary gold, because I believe it is just as important to understand those brilliant tactics as it is to fix the clunkers.

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But don’t let my laid-back personality overshadow my skills. I have a degree in creative writing from the University of Iowa, where I devoured every relevant course available, from basic grammar to novel writing, including an intense study of religion in ancient and modern literature. And I have edited 231 books and novels, for adults and children, as a full-time freelance manuscript editor over the past ten years.

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If you want more details, visit my About Me page. In short, this is my second career, and I love working with authors to help make their books amazing before they self-publish or seek representation. I especially enjoy watching people improve their skills with each book.