Developmental Edits
Developmental edits focus on the big-picture aspects of storytelling.
In a dev edit, I look at structure, pacing and beats, tension and stakes, plot logic, world-building, and genre expectations. I focus on character development, their GMCs (goals, motivations, and conflicts), check their dialogue is authentic and distinct, and that there is deep POV that shows readers what characters feel rather than simply telling them.
When the edit is complete, you’ll receive three documents: a detailed editorial evaluation, a chapter-by-chapter breakdown to use as a revision roadmap, and your manuscript with comprehensive comments. In the edit, I outline what’s currently working, what aspects need more attention, and provide suggestions regarding where and how issues may be addressed.
After you’ve had time to go over the edit, I’m available to answer questions and brainstorm solutions by email, phone, or video chat.
Developmental edits are priced between $0.02 and $0.03 per word.
Substantive / Line Edits
A substantive/line edit looks at the manuscript at a sentence level. This is where I fine-tune the big picture.
I check for consistency from scene to scene (motivations, actions, eye color, clothing, etc.). I edit to improve paragraph structure, scene structure, and transitions. I find repetitive words/phrases/structures. I check your dialogue is authentic and flows, tighten wordy sentences, and check for readability, pacing, clarity, and consistency.
All edits are done in the manuscript with track changes on and using Word’s comment function.
For substantive/line edits, I charge between $0.017 per word and $0.023 per word.
Copy Edits
During a copy edit, I comb through your story and check the grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency of style. I follow the latest Chicago Manual of Style and use Merriam Webster as my default dictionary.
For copy edits, I charge between $0.017 per word and $0.023 per word.
Package Deal: Line & Copy Edit Combo
For some authors, I offer a package edit of line and copy edits combined. For this kind of editing package, I charge between $0.02 per word and $0.026 per word.
Plotting Sessions
Do you have an idea or an outline but need help making sure all the building blocks of a solid story are there?
Need a roadmap or a little direction figuring out a plot point? We can go over what you have and flesh out a detailed outline for you to work with in a plotting session. We can do this in a call or video chat.
For a plotting session (roughly an hour and a half), I charge $150.
The small print:
Disclaimer: I will use all of my experience and skill to help you shape the very best version of your story. However, I cannot promise that you will land an agent, secure a publishing contract, or hit a bestseller list. Those outcomes are beyond my control.
To discuss editing packages or scheduling or to arrange a 1000-word sample edit to see if we’d be a good fit, please get in touch with me at contact@heidishoham.com
I offer a 1000-word sample edit for us to both see if we’re a good fit.
I use Word’s word count and invoice for the size of the book when it arrives for edits.
All edits are done using MS Word and manuscripts need to be submitted as a Word document.
I require a $50 non-refundable deposit to secure a date on my schedule. This $50 will be deducted from the amount due when you send me the manuscript and the first payment.
Fifty percent of the total fee is payable when the book arrives for edits. Once I have started an edit, no refunds will be issued. The remaining portion is due when the edits are completed.
I use Chicago Manual of Style and Merriam Webster and make all corrections/suggestions according to the latest editions.