Manuscript Evaluation: The first step in our editorial process for nonfiction manuscripts and book proposals is mainly diagnostic in nature. We read the pages and prepare a detailed written report that explores what works, what doesn’t, what challenges need to be addressed, and ultimately what can be done to give the work the best chance of success in the marketplace. The Manuscript Evaluation also provides a candid assessment of a work’s chances at traditional publication and addresses whether or not it will be a good fit for our literary agent matchmaking program. Some projects need just this initial feedback. Manuscript Evaluations are always written, with a session of phone follow-up with the reviewing editor available at no additional charge.

Manuscript Consultation: Some writers prefer informal back-and-forth with their editor or want feedback that falls outside the boundaries of our other services. Our manuscript consultation service is billed by the hour and basically allows writers to have access to as much of an editor’s time and expertise as they need and to get their feedback any way they like. (By phone, by email, by notes in the manuscript, or any combination of the above.)

Manuscript Annotation: Our manuscript annotation service puts highly specific notes from the editor in the body of electronic manuscript text. The intent of manuscript annotation is to push the author of a good book into taking it over the finish line.

Line and Copy Editing: Finally there’s the hands-on polishing, correction, and general stylistic attention most writers think of as “editing.” We offer three levels of service when it comes to classic ”blue pencil” editing, ordinarily using Microsoft Word's Track Changes function. Line or copy editing should always be the very last stage in the editorial process, at the conclusion of any content or developmental editing we do for the story.

Every manuscript is different. Every author is different. The challenges of every story are different. This is why there is no single standard process for editing a manuscript or coaching its development and why our menu of services is a la carte.

If after reading the more detailed descriptions provided by the menu above you have any questions as to which service would best suit your needs, please contact Ross Browne or Jesse Steele at (520) 546-9992, or by emailing them here.

Book Proposals: We offer a variety of services for the development, editing, and marketing of book proposals.