ABOUT MAGIC WORDS
I cannot remember the books I’ve read any more than the meals I’ve eaten; even so, they have made me.
β Ralph Waldo Emerson
β Ralph Waldo Emerson
Everyone has a story.
You’ve reached “The End.” Those long nights, the bottomless cups of coffee, so many rewrites and revisions and read-throughs finally behind you. You’ve done it, magic writer. You’ve spun words into a finished book, and you’re ready to put your tale into the eager hands (and e-readers) of your awaiting fans.
Your readers deserve the best
story you can give them.
ONE THAT WILL IMMERSE THEM IN YOUR WORLD
INTO THE WEE HOURS OF MANY NIGHTS
But readers can be tough. (I know you’ve seen those reviews. Yikes!) They have high standards for writing craft and will catch every goblin and troll lurking in your pages. Your self-published book should be just as good as anything Tor or PRH releases to satisfy those expectations.
Never fear! That’s where I come in, waving my trusty red penβer, keyboardβto help.
Hi! Hey! Hello!
I’m Shawna, and my job is to walk with indie authors like you on the journey to publish your book. I ease your manuscript over the editing potholes in the path so you can put your final product out there with confidence.
I’VE BEEN TRAINING FOR THIS MY WHOLE LIFE
I read my first words when I was two. By five, I was leading reading circle in Mrs. Cookβs kindergarten class. At nine, I wrote my first action-adventure story about a girl who shipwrecks on an island in Alaska (complete with a custom-designed Strawberry Shortcakeβthemed cover, courtesy of my mother).
To say words are in my blood is only mostly true. I’d say: words are my blood.
Yup. I was the nerdy kid always with her nose in a book.
The one scribbling poems and stories in her math notebook. The English teacher’s favorite student.
Degrees in literature and communications set me on a winding career path: high school English teacher, communications specialist, web designer.
Through it all, I read: scary stories that kept me up into the wee hours and thrilling fantasies that made me long for a world where magic was real. (Pssst, it is.)
Through it all, I wrote: stories, novels, poems. I won NaNo. I ate, drank, and breathed words.
When the pandemic very kindly demanded that I decide what I really wanted to do for the rest of my life, I chose words.
Armed with a shiny certificate in editing from the University of Chicago, I hung out my shingle, sharpened my pencil (well, warmed up my keyboard, really), and invited word-lovers like you to join me on this journey.
MEMBER OF
EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE
Education
Certificate in Editing, University of Chicago
BS English, Missouri State University
MA Communications, Lindenwood University
Editing Training
Copyediting Fiction, Editorial Freelancers’ Association
Intermediate Copyediting, EFA
Copyediting Practicum, Editorial Arts Academy
Intermediate Line Editing for Fiction, EFA
Developmental Editing, Editorial Arts Academy
Editing Sci-Fi and Fantasy, Jennifer Lawler
Experience
Freelance editor for trad publishers (Tor/Nightfire)
5+ years editing for indie authors and publishers
40+ years writing novels, short stories, poetry
30+ years studying literature and writing craft
Expert in LOTR and Star Trek trivia
Highly skilled at being owned by cats
I CREATE THE MAGIC OF POLISHED, PUBLISH-READY PROSE, HELPING YOU GET YOUR STORIES INTO THE WORLD AND TURNING YOU INTO THE AUTHOR YOU DREAM OF BEING. I ALWAYS:
Listen intently to your writing dreams
Focus on kindness and support
Leave a light footprint on your words
Offer transparent pricing & processes
Create editing magic!
Ready to go on this journey?
FREEBIES
FREEBIES
Are you taking the DIY scenic route? I have gifts for your solo editing journey.
WORK WITH ME
WORK WITH ME
From critiques to tweaks, I have a full slate of services to give your manuscript the royal touch.
FAQS
I was more than pleased (delighted! invigorated!) with Shawna's query assessment and happily made the changes she suggested. I appreciate the depth and understanding of her recommendations and really believed she had my best interests at heart.
As a first-time author, the editing process was super overwhelming. That was until I met Shawna, and I knew immediately my manuscript was in good hands. From our first communication to our most recent, Shawna has been kind, clear, insightful, and just the best to work with. Upon receiving her edits, it was clear how much work Shawna put into her services, and I am so grateful I could have her talent on my story. Because of Shawna's Style Tune-Up I am certain my book is in much better condition than before, and I hope to work with her again!Shawna's editing is adept, respectful, and intelligent. She is also a creative thinker just brimming with outside-the-box ideas and inspiration. I have no doubt Shawna will be an enormous asset for any writer or publisher who teams up with Magic Words Editorial Services. I think sheβs a little bit magic herself.
Shawna was a delight to work with. From the beginning, she was very communicative and made sure I was comfortable with the timeline and the deliverables. Her developmental edits were thoughtful and thorough. Her line edits brought out the best in my story and made it infinitely more readable. Throughout the whole process, Shawna sent me updates and left encouraging notes. This was an ideal editing experience! I would recommend Shawna to any aspiring author looking to take their story to the next level.I was at a point in my process where I needed to know if the story I had in my head was the one that I was putting into words. Shawnaβs Story Diagnostic was thorough and encouraging. It gave me the energy to carry on to the next phase of my novel. She is warm and encouraging, yet practiced and professional. I trust her feedback, her advice, and her commitment to the content she is reviewing and the relationship she in turn builds with her clients! 10/10 Would recommend!
Shawna's copyedit was extremely helpful because she corrected things that I couldn't see on my own. Her suggestions and edits fit within the flow of the story and my personal style. I never once felt a suggestion changed the integrity of the story, only enhanced, cleaned up, and made it better—exactly what a writer needs from an editor.
As a first-time author, I finally took the big plunge and sent my book out for editing. I can't say enough good things about Shawna and her Story Diagnostic. Not only did she help me identify the problem areas in my manuscript, but she also offered up innovative ideas for fixing them. Throughout the whole process, she was enthusiastic and responsive. I truly got the feeling that editing is a passion of hers and not just a job. I would recommend Shawna without a doubt and look forward to working with her in the future.
Working with Shawna was a wonderful experience. From the beginning, she homed in on what I liked about the book, which was the rhythm of the language, and she kept that intact throughout her detailed and thoughtful editing.
I felt that she was an ally as I read through the remarks, and everything she noted was valid, clear, and helpful. At every stage, Shawna is professional and present. I would recommend her to any writer.Magic Words has been invaluable to my editing process and writing journey. As a first-time author, I had a lot of anxiety and imposter syndrome, but I felt supported through this whole process and left feeling empowered despite having a lot of work left to do. All I can say is thank you, and Iβll be back.
FOLLOW @MAGICWORDSEDITING ON INSTAGRAM
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Today`s writing challenge comes from Refuse to Be Done by Matt Bell:
If you`re stuck wallowing in a plot that goes nowhere or writing scenes that all sound the same, Bell suggests taking a step back to write four test scenes outside of your outline or current story flow.
First, select a point in your plot and/or a certain character.
Then write one each of the following scenes around that plot point/character:
π‘ Discovery - show a character learning about or discovering something
π‘ Complication - introduce a complication to a character`s goals or the story outline
π‘ Reversal - reverse an existing complication
π‘ Resolution - resolve a conflict/complication in your story
Your goal here isn`t to write four awesome scenes that make it into your bookβit`s simply to get your writing moving again. You`ll end up with several thousand words that might help you discover something surprising about your story or characters. And it just might get you out of that rut.
If you try this challenge, let me know how it goes in the comments. ππ»
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#writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig #indieauthor #indieauthors #indieauthorsofinstagram
Apr 15
HOW DO YOU PUNCTUATE DIALOGUE QUOTED IN OTHER DIALOGUE? π€π¬
When a character quotes an exact line of dialogue from another character, how is that punctuated? It`s not as tricky as you might think.
Here`s a quick tip from The Chicago Manual of Style:
13.30: Quotations and βquotes within quotesβ
Quoted words, phrases, and sentences run into the text are enclosed in double quotation marks. Single quotation marks enclose quotations within quotations.
EXAMPLE:
βHis exact words were, βI shot the sheriff, but I did not shoot the deputy.ββ (Note the placement of the final single quote: it goes *outside* the period. For question marks/exclamation points, it goes *inside*.)
Now you know! π
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#editingtips #amediting #amrevising #bookaneditor #lookingforaneditor #bookeditorneeded #publishing #writingtips
Apr 12
Psst! Hey, magic writer. Do you have writer`s block?
Ugh. Me too! Here`s something I`ve found that helps:
Try relocating. As in, actually moving your physical body to a new spot.
A change of scenery might be what you need. If you usually write indoors, go to the park. If you normally churn out the words in a coffee shop, try a quiet corner in the library. Write on the sofa? Move to a different room of your house.
Writing in new location introduces a different energy to your surroundings, which might help get YOUR energy and creativity flowing more freely as well.
If you try it, and it works, let me know in the comments below!
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#writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig
Apr 8
Q. What are "alpha readers"? Why do I need them?
A. Alpha readers are, generally, the very first readers of your book. They usually read a first or unpolished draft to help you catch early mistakes with plot, characters, or setting, and can give you much-needed inspiration to continue drafting or revising if you feel stuck.
Alpha readers can be anyone: editors, family members (although they might not give you unbiased feedback!), other writers, critique partners. The best alpha readers know something about craft to the point that they can give you targeted feedback, know how to offer constructive criticism, can look beyond the flaws of a first draftβlike spelling and punctuation errorsβand have the time and energy to read your story and comment on it.
How many alpha readers should you have? Typically, a small number (3β5) works best, but have as many as you need to work out any particular problems or stuck places.
Over to you: Have you ever used alpha readers? What was your experience like? Did they help? Let me know in the comments below!
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#editingtips #editing #writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors
Apr 5
NOW ACCEPTING WAITLIST SIGNUPS! π₯³ππ€©
If you`re the type who loves to plan ahead, or you have a fall publishing schedule, sign up now to get on my Quarter 3 (August, September) waitlist for the following services:
ππ» line editing
ππ» copy editing
ππ» story assessments
ππ» query assessments and editing
Waitlist members are contacted on a first come, first served rolling basis. As of today, all spots are taken for July, but openings remain for August and September.
Add your name here --->
π― Visit this link: www.magicwordsediting.com OR
π Send me a DM OR
ππ» Click the link in my bio
*Got a smaller project? I might be able to work you in before my next opening. Let`s talk!
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#bookeditor #copyeditor #lineeditor #proofreader #writingtips #writingtipsandtricks #indiesareworthit #indiepublishingcommunity #amediting #amrevising
Apr 3
βDrink some coffee. Listen to some birds. Feel the breeze. Give love into the world and receive it in return. Now open the little box inside your heart marked RIGHTEOUS FURY and let the tornado captured inside take you, carry you, and return you to the fight once more.ββChuck Wendig, You Can Do Anything, Magic Skeleton
HAPPY APRIL! π»πππͺ
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#indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #indiebooks #supportindieauthors #indiesareworthit #writerlife
Apr 1
CONGRATS!! You`ve finished writing your first draft. So . . . what`s next??
I`ve had quite a few eager-beaver first-time authors come to me in the last weeks wanting to rush straight from first draft to "proofreading."
No. Slow waaaay down there, skippy.
Writing is a marathon, not a sprint, and I can guarantee that as good as your draft is, it`s nowhere near ready to be a book.
There are a few steps in the middle that you really shouldn`t skip if you want to sell a quality product.
ππ» REVISE AND REWRITE
At the absolute very least, you need to revise and rewrite your draft. Your first draft isn`t ready for prime time, and your second or even your third might not be, either. This takes as long as it takes. Sorry/not sorry.
ππ» ALPHA/BETA READERS*
Next is to get some eyes on that story. Find some readers typical of those you want to sell your eventual book to; have them give feedback. It will be eye-opening, I assure you. Go back to step one: revise.
ππ» DEV EDIT/MANUSCRIPT EVAL*
Consider getting a professional editor`s opinion of the story. They`ll give you targeted feedback and suggestions for problems beta readers miss or can`t define. Go back to step one: revise.
ππ» LINE EDIT
Hurrah, now that you are absolutely 100% done with revision, you can finally start the process of what first-timers typically call "proofreading": editing the actual sentences and words. A line edit massages the syntax, style, and flow of your sentences to make sure they make sense to a reader.
ππ» COPYEDIT
This can sometimes be done in conjunction with the line edit. A copyedit checks grammar, mechanics, spelling, character traits, timelines, facts, and other nuts and bolts concerns.
ππ» PROOFREAD
After you`ve formatted, typeset, and designed the book`s interior, you`re ready for actual proofreading. This is one last check for errors in the page proofs before you publish.
*Beta readers can sometimes come after a dev edit. You don`t necessarily need both alpha and beta readers, but it`s a good idea.
***
Now you know! Questions? Let me know in the comments.
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#amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice #copyeditor #lineeditor #proofreader
Mar 29
Friend, you might be wondering if ChatGPT (or Grammarly or ProWritingAid) will do as fine a job editing your book as a human being.
The short answer: nope. π
AI editing programs might be fine for finding minor grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. And eventually, they`ll probably get so good they`ll catch things like repetition and mixed-up words.
But right now they can`t do much more than that. π€·π»ββ
So, here are three reasons (out of many others) a human editor is always going to do a better job than AI at making your book the best it can be:
π CHARACTER NAMES
ChatGPT and other software programs won`t tell you when "Catherine" becomes "Katherine" halfway through your story. <-- I *just* caught one of these in the m/s I`m working on now!
π TIMELINE
ChatGPT and other software programs won`t alert you when a character says something`s going to happen on Tuesday and later it happens on Saturday. <-- I keep a detailed timeline of your book`s events to make sure it progresses logically.
π FACT-CHECKING
ChatGPT and other software programs won`t check the accuracy and consistency of dates, place names, or even if the moon was shining on a night your character says it was. <!-- Yep! I`ve done that. A moon timetable is one of my most used bookmarks.
*****
What are some horror stories you`ve heard about how badly AI botched an edit? Let me know in the comments below.
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#bookeditorneeded #amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice #editingtricks #bookeditor #copyeditor #lineeditor #proofreader
Mar 25
WHO vs. WHOM: Come jump in the deep water with me, magic writer, and learn when to use βwhoβ and when to use βwhom.β Itβs easier than you think with this trick.
π‘ WHO
"Who" is used as the subject of a sentence.
>>> Example: Who wrote the letter? <<<
π‘ WHOM
"Whom" is used as the object of a verb or preposition.
>>> Example: For whom was the letter intended? <<<
β THE TRICK:
One neat trick you can use to figure out when to use one or the other is to invert the sentence and substitute a different pronoun: he/she, him/her, or they/them.*
>>> Who wrote the letter? <<<
THEY wrote the letter. HE wrote the letter. SHE wrote the letter.
Him, her, or them don`t work in this sentence, so we choose "who."
>>> For whom was the letter intended? <<<
The letter was intended for HIM. The letter was intended for HIM. The letter was intended for HER.
He, she, and they don`t work in this sentence. So "whom" is correct. (Note the M on the end: them/whom, him/whom, her/ . . . er, trust me on that one.)
π£ *BUT!
Caveat time. In speaking and modern everyday usage, βwhoβ is often used in place of βwhom.β
>>> Who is the letter intended for? <<<
>>> Who did you say is calling? <<<
Canβt remember which one to use? Donβt want to sound like a 19th-century grammarian?
Use "who." Itβs okay. Really. Even Shakespeare did it. π
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#editingtips #amediting #amrevising #bookaneditor #lookingforaneditor #bookeditorneeded #publishing #writingtips #freelanceeditors #bookeditor
Mar 22
It`s spring! It`s spring! Hooray! πππ π
Happy equinox, magic writer. Hope you have a magical season, full of new projects, growth as a writer, and sunny days of dreaming up stories.
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#spring #springequinox #spring2024 #springishere #sunnydaysahead #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting
Mar 20
Q: Where can I find legitimate writing workshops that will actually help me become a better writer?
A: By "help me become a better writer" I`m going to assume that what you`re looking for is a workshop that offers:
ππ» deep, constructive feedback on YOUR writing;
ππ» instruction from writers who`ve found success in the field and/or themselves are excellent writers;
ππ» and, perhaps, effective exercises you can apply to your own writing.
Because a combination of the above is what will get you from where you are now as a writer to where you want to be. Quickly. π
So here are four highly regarded writing workshop providers that fit the bill:
π Iowa Summer Writing Festival
Affiliated with the University of Iowa`s world-renowned writing program, the festival offers in-person weekend and weeklong writing workshops on a variety of topics during June and July. You have to travel to Iowa City for the summer classes, but there are a few online workshops in April and May available if you hurry.
π Gotham Writers Workshop
Or just "Gotham"βit`s that well-known. The workshops have produced National Book Award winners, NY Times bestselling authors, and an Emmy-winning TV writer. Their classes are offered online and in person, and classes are anywhere from 6β10 weeks . They also list day-long intensives if you`re in a real hurry.
π GrubStreet
A nonprofit creative writing center based in Boston, GrubStreet is known for its multiweek and even year-long intensive, membership-based programs. Those puppies aren`t for the faint of heart! But they also offer writing workshops for beginning and intermediate writers. Online and in person. Scholarships are available.
π Hugo House
Coming out of Seattle, Hugo House leans more "community arts center" than those listed above, but they still provide online and in-person writing workshops on anything from poetry to memoir to fiction. Lots of speculative fiction classes on tap here!
***
I`m signed up for a couple of workshops in the Iowa festival this summer. Maybe I`ll see you there!
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#writingworkshops #workshops #writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity
Mar 18
CAN YOU SPOT THIS EDITING CONUNDRUM? How would you edit this sentence? π€
"I wanted to sit in the comfy chair with a cup of coffee in my pajamas and peck away at a keyboard."
Let me know in the comments what you`d do to fix the issue in this sentence, and see what I`d do as a professional editor. π
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#bookeditorneeded #amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice #editingtricks #wordcountgoals
Mar 15
IT`S HAPPENED AGAIN! I`ve seen more social media posts lately from authors who have been burned by less than professionalβeven scammyβ"editors" and "book coaches." It doesn`t have to be this way!
Vet. Your. Service. Providers. Here`s how:
GOOGLE THEM
Not just their business name (a well-known editor/book coach scammer changes their business name when the heat gets, well, hot) but also their actual name. Like this --> "Shawna Hampton" (with the quotation marks so the results show you the right person). Also search their name on TikTok, Facebook, and other social media to see what comes up.
CONTACT REFERENCES
Ask them for references. If they give you any, contact them. If they don`t? π©π©π©
CHECK FOR PRO MEMBERSHIPS
Ask them what professional associations they belong to (Editorial Freelancers, ACES, others). If they give you one or more, go to the association`s website and search for their name in the directory. (This same well-known book coach scammer lies about being an EFA member. A quick directory search proves otherwise.)
ASK THEM QUESTIONS
What editing training do you have? Do you offer sample edits? What exactly will I get in my edit? Do you offer a contract? (If so, read it carefully!) Look for any π©π©π© in their answers and TRUST. YOUR. GUT.
BONUS
Writer Beware (www.writerbeware.com) exposes writing-related scams and has entries about well-known editor and book coach scammers. πππ Give them a visit to see if the person you`re thinking of hiring is included.
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#editing #publishing #writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram
Mar 13
Here`s a super fun writing challenge for you:
If you`ve got a sticky plot point that you can`t get moving, try keeping a dream journal for a week or two. See what situations pop up in your dreams that you can adapt to your WIP.
Give it a try, and if you have great results, come back here and post in the comments. Or if you`ve had a go at this in the past, let me know belowβmaybe you`ll inspire someone!
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#writingchallenge #dreams #writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity
Mar 11
The dreaded SYNOPSIS. π±ππ Writers hate writing them, but they really do help sell your book to agents . . . if they`re done right.
Here are a few tips for synopsis writing that might make it easier AND help you get more requests β‘β‘β‘
Jane Friedman in her article "How to Write a Novel or Memoir Synopsis" says the #1 mistake writers make in a synopsis is writing just a recitation of plot events.
"First, they went here. Then they went there. Next there was an explosion. And then a dragon rescued them . . ."
π DON`T DO THAT. π
Instead, use a handy formula she describes to add color and meaning to the plot description:
π INCIDENT (the plot point) + REACTION (color) = DECISION (story advancement)
βDetermined to find the gold, the band of adventurers sets out on an epic quest. After an erupting volcano makes them reconsider their life choices, theyβre rescued by a friendly dragon . . .β
INCIDENT: "the band of adventurers set out . . ."
COLOR: "Determined to find the gold"
INCIDENT: "an erupting volcano"
COLOR/DECISION: they "reconsider their life choices"
INCIDENT: "they`re rescued by a friendly dragon"
And so on . . .
For every plot point (incident) you describe in your synopsis, include the charactersβ reactions and emotions to the incident.
Then show how the incident and the charactersβ responses lead to the decisions they make, that then lead to the next incident . . . and rinse, repeat.
This helps show an agent the story (concisely!), demonstrates the plot`s cause-and-effect engine, and injects some emotion and excitement into your synopsis. All very important things to getting their attention and perhaps a full request!
If you`d like more synopsis-writing tips, read Friedman`s excellent article at the link in my bio.
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#querywriting #querytips #booksynopsis #writingtips #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity
Mar 8
A host of daffodils (and other flowers), blooming in my little river town! I love going on early spring nature walks. Everything feels so fresh and alive.
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#spring #stcharlesmo #historicmainstreetstcharles #writersofinstagramf #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig #indieauthor #indieauthors #indieauthorsofinstagram
Mar 7
"When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze." βWilliam Wordsworth
Spring is nearly here! I see daffodils popping up everywhere I go. When I come across these "hosts of golden daffodils," I always think of this poem, one of the first I really studied deeply in high school English class.
And I always wonder if Wordsworth could have known how powerful his words would be, even centuries later.
Keep writing those words. You never know how deeply they`ll affect someone, or for how long.
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#iamwriting #writingcommunityofig #aspiringauthor #indieauthorsofinstagram #newauthor #writingadvice #indieauthor #authorsofig #writersofinsta #wordcountgoals #supportindieauthors #indiesareworthit #writerlife
Mar 4
Youβve seen those comments: readers pointing out mistakes theyβve found in self-published books. Or using typos in traditionally published books as justification for not hiring professional editors.
Recently, Iβve seen several social media posts from editors in response promising to make an authorβs manuscript βperfect.β
Sorry to say, thatβs misleading. π€π¬π€₯
Based on science behind error catch rates, here`s why an error-free manuscript isnβt possible.
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS PERFECTION
A study by Dr. Ray Panko of the University of Hawaii found that professional proofreaders caught on average only 81% of nonword errors and 66% of word errors in lab-based proofreading experiments. The highest percentage catch rate of all the studiesβ β βmeaning the highest that can be humanly expected in a lab settingβwas 95%.
AKA: If you send a m/s with 3,000 errors in it to an editor, the best you can expect is 150 of them left behind. 3000 x .05 = 150
EDITING DOESN`T HAPPEN IN A PERFECT WORLD
Editors donβt edit in a controlled environment. They edit in the real world, on real manuscripts, authored by real humans. They themselves are humans, and many factors specific to being human and the nature of publishing a book affect that 95% catch rate: manuscript quality, number of rounds, length of deadline, editor experience/training.
"ERRORS" CAN BE A MATTER OF STYLE
Itβs common that readers mistake style choices, such as specific lowercasing or capitalization recommendations from The Chicago Manual of Style, for errors.
Theyβre not. Theyβre just different ways of styling language. All "correct."
AN EDITOR IS ONLY RESPONSIBLE FOR SO MUCH
Once the manuscript is out of the editorβs hands, he or she has no more responsibility for errors that might be reintroduced or new ones made during the review/publishing process.
So maybe that silly typo an editor caught, flagged, and corrected crept back in through no fault of theirs. It happens, and more than you might realize.
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Want to read more? See the link in my bio.
Have a comment about this post? Share below!
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#bookeditorneeded #selfpublishedauthor #amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice #wordcountgoals
Mar 1
Congrats to client Tori Weed @toriweed on the release of her stunning debut novel, The Weight of Wishes!
I was thrilled to do a Style Tune-Up (line edit) of this amazing epic fae fantasy. Check it out:
"If dreams can come true, it is vital to remember that nightmares, well, they exist too.
Seren was only four when the Stellean king killed her mother. Sixteen years his servant, Seren understands her place in his cruel court: Stay quiet. Stay out of trouble. And most importantly, stay alive.
But now, the Fae king wants her dead too, and there is only one way to stop him.
Thrust into a challenge not undertaken for centuries, Seren must navigate trials more dangerous and twisted than she could ever imagine.
With the fate of her kingdom hanging in the balance, can Seren defy the odds and uncover the truth about her past?
The clock is ticking. The gods are watching."
Put this one on your list! Get it at: https://t.ly/3gINs
Or click the link in my bio ---->
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#writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig #indieauthor #indieauthors #indieauthorsofinstagram
Feb 28
We`ve all been there: WRITER`S BLOCK!
That awful feeling when you sit down to write and nothing comes out. That sound of goals swirling down the drain. That certainty that you`ll never be able to write another word again.
Yeah. It`s happened to me, too.
Over the years, I`ve developed a few ways to help myself get unstuck, and I plan on sharing as many as I can in the coming monthsβalong with some I`ve learned from other writers.
This month, here`s a solid go to: FREEWRITING
With freewriting, you put aside any plans or outlines or goals, put pen to paper (or hands to keyboard), set a timer, and just . . . write. Anything that comes to mind. Even if it`s simply, "I can`t think of anything to write," over and over.
Don`t worry about what comes out. Don`t worry about grammar, or spelling, or "correctness" of any kind.
Simply write words.
You might be surprised to find that eventually, the dam breaks and what you end up writing resembles a scene or a chapter in your WIP. Or you solve a sticky plot point or character motivation.
Give it a try, and let me know how it works for you!
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#writingadvice #indieauthor #authorsofig #writersofinsta #wordcountgoals #supportindieauthors #indiesareworthit #writerlife
Feb 27
QUICK EDITING TIP: Quotations and "quotes within quotes"
Magic writer, if you have a line of dialogue where a character quotes another character`s speech, how do you punctuate that? I`ll show you!
From The Chicago Manual of Style: Quoted words, phrases, and sentences . . . are enclosed in double quotation marks. Single quotation marks enclose quotations within quotations;
"Wait!" Henry exclaimed. "Mr. Jones said, in his words, to `stay off his lawn if you know what`s good for you.`" <--- note the single quotation marks around the words Mr. Jones spoke; also note they come A F T E R the period
Easy-peasey.
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#editingtips #amediting #amrevising #bookaneditor #lookingforaneditor #bookeditorneeded #publishing #writingtips #freelanceeditors #bookeditor
Feb 23
Have you ever gone on a writing retreat? Are you considering one this year to help you get that book written? Here are three ways to make the most of that time alone devoted to your writing.
SET GOALS
The first thing to do is get clear on what you want to get out of the retreat. A finished book? A certain word count? Set some realistic, measurable goals for your time that would make the retreat a success.
BLOCK YOUR TIME
You have an ocean of free time ahead of you, without distractions or obligations. It`s a good idea to set at least a loose schedule to keep yourself on track. Block out when you`ll write, plan, read, even sleep and eat. That will help keep you on track and focused so you don`t end the retreat wondering where all your time went.
PLAN AHEAD
Whether you`re going away somewhere exotic or staying close to home for your retreat, you`ll still need to do human things like eat, exercise, maybe even do some laundry. Plan out your meals and snacks and buy groceries ahead of time. Pack all the chargers and materials you`ll need. Figure out what your accommodations offer in the way of work space and activities. This will all help you keep your life needs from intruding on your precious writing time.
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Over to you! If you`ve ever done a retreat, tell me about it in the comments. Where did you go? (Bonus points if it was somewhere exotic!) How did it help your writing? I`d love to know!
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#indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #indiebooks #fantasywriter #fantasyauthor #indieauthorcommunity #aspiringauthorsofig
Feb 22
If you sell your book on Amazon, you N E E D to have a great book description. It`s more important than you might think for capturing reader interest (and π°). Here are some tips for making it a superstar sales tool from the great book The Amazon Author Formula by Penny C. Sansevieri:
π― KEEP IT SIMPLE
Don`t write a long, complex synopsis of the entire story. Reading large chunks of text makes people tired (and more likely to click away). Concentrate on the important and most exciting parts of the book, and make them snappy.
π― MAKE IT SCANNABLE
Break up your text into short paragraphs and do what you can to help reader eyes scan it: add bullets, bolding, headings, or other formatting to highlight the good stuff.
π― INCLUDE KEYWORDS
You know those keywords you`ve researched to help readers find your book on Amazon? (You HAVE done the research, right?) Put them in the book description.
π― MENTION REVIEWS/AWARDS
If you`ve won awards for your writing, put them in. If you`ve gotten reviews of your book from big-name folks (or even not so big name), put them in. (Use a portion, not the whole thing.)
π― PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD
Don`t put up a book description full of errors and typos. If you wouldn`t put out a book without editing, don`t do the same for your sales page. Proofread carefully, or hire an editor to look over ALL your marketing materials.
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Was this helpful? Let me know in the comments, or give it a like and share! ππ»ππ»
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#bookmarketing #marketingyourbook #marketyourbook #sellyourbook
Feb 16
WHAT I`M READING: Dreaming on the Page by Tzivia Gover.
Magic writer, do you have interesting, epic dreams?
From the time I was a wee young`un, I`ve had the most amazing, twisty, cuckoo-for-Cocoa-Puffs dreams. When I describe them to people, they always say, "You should write that as a story!" Believe me, I`ve tried. They never stick around long enough to get them down on paper.
Enter this amazing book! Gover has written a supercharged manual for vivid dreamers-turned-writers who want to mine their nightly mind movies for the good stuff.
LIKES: Right off the bat, Gover has a section of tips for remembering your dreams that I found super helpful, followed by steps for setting up your dream-writing practice so it`s most effective. Then, the bulk of the book consists of exercises and writing prompts for mining your dream journaling for the good stuff to turn it into poems and stories. I loved this structure. Working my way through the prompts and her gentle guidance has been (ahem) eye-opening. I`ve learned so much about how I write AND how I tick. The last third offers some guidance for packing your dream stories up for publication, which I know will be helpful when I get to that point, and for creating what the author calls "dream circles": writing groups centered around dream writing.
DISLIKES: None! This was a superb book in every way, from the content to the interior design to the cover. Even the paper it`s printed on was beautiful.
Rating: π π π π π (out of 5)
Friend, have you ever written a story based on a dream? I`d love to know about it in the comments below. If not, and you`re intrigued by the idea, pick up this book to get you started!
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#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookstagramfollowtrain #bookstack #indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #indiebooks #writingadvice
Feb 14
Q: Where do I find literary agents to query?
A: If you`re ready to begin your querying journey for your book and need to find agents, the first place I recommend you look is Query Tracker. It`s a huge database of literary agents and allows you to search on multiple criteria. Not only that, though, it also offers tools to help you track what queries you`ve sent and to whom, replies to your queries, status of your queries, and much more.
Other resources include:
ππ» Manuscript Wishlist: Also a search engine for agents, MSWL allows agents to post the types of books they`re interested in to help you tailor your targeting.
ππ» Publishers Marketplace: PM is THE industry news source. This is a good stop to research agents and see the recent deals they`ve made, which might help you put together that important comps list.
ππ» Guide to Literary Agents: Don`t discount this iconic guide from Writer`s Digest. Available in print and e-book formats, this is a giant list of agents and the agencies they work for, plus what genres they represent. Although it can get out of date quickly, it could be a great fallback in your agent-research toolbox.
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And if you need help getting your query letter and synopsis in shape before sending it to agents, my Query Cleanup service might be helpful. It`s a read and critique of your querying materials, plus a line edit of the revision. Click the π in my bio or send a π© for more info.
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#amwritingfiction #aspiringauthor #indiebooks #writerproblems #writinganovel #firstdraftclub #bookeditorneeded #newwritersclub
Feb 12
CHOOSE THE RIGHT WORD: faze vs. phase
I see these two confused quite a bit, so let`s explore their differences:
π‘ FAZE
(v.)
:to disturb the composure of
π‘PHASE
(n.)
: a state in a recurring cycle
Now in some sentencesβ
ππ» Nothing could FAZE her, and she calmly claimed her place. <--- FAZE is an action word (v.) here.
She was UNFAZED by the email she got Friday.
ππ» This is just a PHASE sheβs going through. <--- PHASE is a thing (n.) here.
We`re in the new PHASE of the moon.
π₯ ALERT! π₯
The word PHASE can be used as a verb, too. But it usually occurs in combinations such as "phase in" or "phase out":
ππ» They plan to PHASE in a new model this year.
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Are there any words that sneakily sound the same that you mix up sometimes? Let me know in the comments below!
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#amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice #editingtricks #wordcountgoals
Feb 9
Magic writer, do you need an unbiased, professional opinion of your novel draft?
I have the perfect service for you! A Story Diagnostic is a review of your manuscriptβin whatever shape it`s currently inβfrom a professional reader and trained editor (me!) to spot craft issues: plot holes, worldbuilding craters, character development issues, structure baubles, pacing peccadillos. Even while the draft is still in progress!
Most writing advice tells you to wait until your draft is complete before you send it off to beta readers. I totally agree! But asking a beta reader, who is probably not a trained developmental editor, to read the first draft is not a great idea. It`s too easy for them to get lost in (let`s face it) the word salad that is an early draft.
However, having an editor`s eye, one trained in specific clues that indicate story problems, one trained to give targeted, actionable, and, most importantly, KIND feedback at that early stage? Well, you do the math about how much time that could save you in rewrites. πβπ¨πβπ¨πβπ¨
In a Diagnostic, you`ll get:
π A letter of 8β12 pages containing my thoughts about your story`s strengths, any opportunities I see for revision, and recommendations for specific ways you can improve it
π In-manuscript comments with targeted, laser-focused advice
π Answers to 5 follow-up questions to support your revisions
π Kindness, encouragement, and a one-woman cheering section!
It`s easy to apply for a Story DiagnosticβDM me or click the link in my bio. π
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#bookeditorneeded #indieauthorsunite #indieauthorcommunity #aspiringauthorsofig
Feb 7
Happy first Monday of February! Here`s a little motivation for your month from Chuck Wendig`s wonderful middle-grade book, You Can Do Anything, Magic Skeleton:
Begin by remembering
that the easiest thing to do
Is to reject yourself
Before anyone else can reject you (<--- πΆπ΅ ouch! this slapped me hard today)
But f*** that noise
Make THEM do the dirty work
Put yourself out there
Bold, effulgent, gold
You`re a star
They don`t want to navigate by you?
Then they can get lost
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What do you think, magic writer? Let`s not reject ourselves first this month, mmmkay? ππ€π»
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#impostorsyndrome #writethatbook #mondaymotivation #indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #supportindieauthors #indiesareworthit #writerlife
Feb 5
Magic writer, do you get anxiety when you show your writing to someone? Does your stomach clench at the though of someone reading your words and **gulp** giving their opinion? π±π¬
I have some ideas that might teach you how to overcome your fear of sharing your writing.
π― REMEMBER THAT YOUR WORK ISN`T YOU
Yes, when you write, you pour a lot of yourself into your creative output.
But ultimately, the work you produce is just that: a result.
The words on the page are not who you are. So try not to take someone elseβs opinion personally.
π― REMEMBER THAT CRITICISM IS NEVER ABOUT YOUR WORK
When someone offers criticism or critique or even praise, they speak out of their truth, not the truth. What they say is more about themβ β β β βtheir worldview and internal makeupβ β β β and what emotions and fears theyβre bringing to the table in that particular momentβand less about you and your efforts.
π― REMEMBER THAT EVERYONE FEELS LIKE A FRAUD
Everyone at some point in their creative journey will feel like a big old fraud. When impostor syndrome rears its head to ask, βWho do you think you are?β
Answer it. Say, βIβm a writer, thatβs who.β
π― REMEMBER THERE`S NO SUCH THING AS PERFECTION
If something is perfect, thereβs nothing we can learn from it.
Giving our writing exposure helps us find the rough edges. Having that information helps us improve not only the work but also ourselves as writers.
Every critique is a chance to grow and become better writersβ βand people.
π― REMEMBER TO NAME YOUR FEARS
FEAR stands for False Evidence Appearing Real.
Fear looks and sounds so big and tough because itβs an unknown.
One way to turn that fear paper tiger into a baby kitten is to make the unknown into a known. Figure out exactly what youβre afraid of, and it wonβt seem so scary then.
π‘ One last thought: The best way to overcome your fear of sharing your writing is to just do it again and again and again, until it doesnβt hurt anymore
Learn more at the link in my bio!
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#indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #indiebooks #fantasywriter #fantasyauthor #indieauthorcommunity
Jan 31
π₯³π Happy launch day to client Andrea Rome @andreahrome on her debut novel, The Standard Book of Anything!
It was my honor to do a Full Editing Journey (manuscript evaluation + line edit) on Andrea`s stunning cozy fantasy, a perfect story to read on cold winter nights, a cup of tea in hand:
"Emaline Strider fixes everything that breaks in her small village of Brookerby. When the Warding Tree of Protection crashes to the ground and cripples the town, Em is up for the challenge of finding a solution.
As she travels south to the glamorous capital city, she finds magic all around her. A shape-shifting book guides her. A never-empty flask sustains her. An improbable relationship blossoms. But can Em trust magic when her hammer and pliers are infinitely more reliable?
When the empress threatens her life and friends double-cross her, magic seems downright dangerous. Suddenly, a simple repair has become a race against the empire to save the only home she has ever known."
Definitely put this one on your TBR list, near the top!
Find it on Amazon here: https://t.ly/6O9Xc
Or click the link in my bio.
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#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #bookstagramfollowtrain #bookstack
Jan 24
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! πββ
After a whirlwind year of amazing editing projects, I`m giving myself an extended holiday break. Whew!
Until January 8, I`ll be quiet on all social channels to rest, recharge, reflect and enjoy the magic and peace of the holiday seasonβas well as plan and prepare a slew of editing tutorials, tips, special offers, and other interesting (and funny!) content for you.
I hope your holidays are filled with joy and love, magic writer. I`ll see you in 2024!
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#newyears2024 #newyearscelebration #newyearseve2023 #goodbye2023 #hello2024 #seasonsgreetings #holidayseason #holidaygreetings #safeandhappyholidays #merryholidayseason #goodtidings #yuletiding #celebratetheholidays
Dec 18
Magic writer, if you`re starting your first revision pass of that NaNoWriMo project over the holiday break, do you know what to focus on this round? What revisions are appropriate at this stage? Here are some suggestions from The Magic of Fiction by Beth Hill:
FIRST PASS REVISIONS
π¬ Boring dialogue: flag any speech that doesn`t sing.
π₯ Over-description: watch out for areas that get a bit flowery or purple with description.
π Flow and clarity: mark spots that might confuse a reader or don`t seem to flow from idea to idea very well.
β Missing information: note places that are missing what I call "connective tissue," or transitional language that moves a reader from scene to scene and paragraph to paragraph.
π³ Plot holes: highlight any glaring plot holes to fill in later.
This list isn`t at all exhaustive; in fact, Hill suggests marking anything and everything on a first revision pass that strikes you as questionable, even grammar, repetition, and the like.
The most important tip: always note a problem when you first see it, and never assume you`ll remember it without that notation.
Over to you: If you`re working on revision this month, how`s it going? Let me know in the comments below!
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#nanowrimo #campnanowrimo #wrimo #nano #nanowrimo2023 #campnano #instawrimo
Dec 15
Winter project lineup! After the holidays, I`ll be cozying up to a slew of amazing stories for indie author clients and traditional publishers. On deck:
πΈπ» A high fantasy featuring a bad-ass princess getting the line-editing touch
β€βπ₯ A new one for meβa modern psychological thriller sure to keep me on my toes, ready for a final read through before publishing
π§π» The manuscript assessment + line edit of a sequel to a present-day vampire tale I worked on last year (I looooove sequels!)
π΅π» Another new one! A cozy mystery getting a m/s assessment + line editing glow up
π§π» And, a line edit of a unique urban vampire story with a never-saw-it-coming twist
WHEW!!
My waitlist has been extended to MAY of 2024.
Want to put your name on the list? It`s first come, first served, and I schedule from the list around the beginning of every month. Here`s how to get on it:
π― Visit this link: www.magicwordsediting.com
π Send me a DM
ππ» Or click the link in my bio
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#bookeditorneeded #amediting #amrevising #editingadvice #editingtricks #bookeditor #copyeditor #lineeditor #proofreader
Dec 14
Magic writers, which one are you? (Comment π± or πΆ below!)
π± You endlessly tweak and revise and tweak again and rewrite and edit and . . . and . . . your novel never seems to be finished.
πΆ Bang out 75,000 words in three weeks, slap a title on it, and call it good.
Which hypothetical draft would YOU consider ready for editing? Would it surprise you to know the answer isβneither?
So, how do you know if your manuscript is ready for the attention of an editor? Here are the questions I ask each potential client when I`m evaluating this very thing:
π Have you written multiple drafts? (At _least_ two.)
π€π» Have you gotten feedback from critique partners and/or beta readers? (Opinions vary on when this should occur, but I hold to "before editing" as the right time.)
β¨ Have you worked out the major issues in your story based on critique or beta feedback? (See the caveat below.)
If the answer to those questions is "YES!"βyou`re probably ready for editing. And, if you`re not sure, your editor will tell you if it needs more revision before she can work her magic (or she should).
CAVEAT: Major issues of your story should ABSOLUTELY be resolved before language editing (line or copy). I define major issues as plot holes, character development, pacing, etc.βthings that take rewriting/revision to fix. It`s not smart to smooth language or fix grammar/usage/mechanics/spelling errors if you`ll be tinkering with structural rewrites.
BUT, if you still need help with some sticky story problems, and you`ve taken revision as far as you can, engaging a developmental editor is a great idea at that point!
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#bookeditorneeded #selfpublishedauthor #amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice #editingtricks #wordcountgoals
Dec 13
Okay, nobody panic! But a gentle reminder: Christmas is two weeks from today. πππ
Which makes this month`s quote feel, er, extra special.
"I love deadlines. I love the whooshing noise they make as they go by."βDouglas Adams
Here`s to all those end-of-year deadlines. May yours whoosh by peacefully and calmly. ππ
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#christmas2023 #holidayshopping #indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #indiebooks #fantasywriter #fantasyauthor #indieauthorcommunity #aspiringauthorsofig
Dec 11
Tori`s book was so much fun to work on, and I can`t wait to work with HER again, too!
"As a first time author, the editing process was super overwhelming. That was until I met Shawna, and I knew immediately my manuscript was in good hands. From our first communication to our most recent, Shawna has been kind, clear, insightful, and just the best to work with. Upon receiving her edits, it was clear how much work Shawna put into her services and I am so grateful I could have her talent on my story. Because of Shawna`s style tune-up I am certain my book is in much better condition than before and I hope to work with her again!" β TORI WEED
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#writingtips #writinganovel #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig #indieauthor #indieauthors #indieauthorsofinstagram
Dec 8
Magic writer, what`s the best writing-related gift you`ve ever gotten? Or what`s your go-to gift for a writer friend or family member?
It`s gift-giving season, and we could all use some ideas for those writerly loved ones. Spill the tea in the comments below!
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#writing #writersofinstagram #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig #indieauthor #indieauthors #indieauthorsofinstagram #fantasywriter #horrorwriter #scifiwriter #fantasyauthor #writersnetwork #novelist #writingcommunityofig #horrorcommunity #fantasynovel #writerslife
Dec 7
When I die, I want to come back as the Ghost of Christmas Past Participle π
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#bookeditorneeded #indieauthorsunite #indieauthorcommunity #indieauthortips #aspiringindieauthors #supportindieauthors #editorslife #aspiringauthorsofig #fantasyauthors #amwritingscifi #authorsofinsta #aspiringwriter #authorgram #iamwriting #writingcommunityofig #aspiringauthor #indieauthorsofinstagram #newauthor #writingadvice #indieauthor #authorsofig #writersofinsta #amediting #editingmeme #writingmeme #wipaesthetic #authorslife #authorquotes #lifeofawriter #writerscorner
Dec 6
Writers, if you`re in need of some fresh writing inspiration to revive a flagging writing practice, I have some resources for youβfour books that soothed my writer`s soul last year and set me on a new path to embracing and supporting my writing as an essential part of my self. Maybe they`ll help you too!
PEP TALKS FOR WRITERS by Grant Faulkner
Written by the executive director of NaNoWriMo, these short "pep talks" cover everything from generating ideas to impostor syndrome. They`re sure to give you a fresh perspective when you`re stuck.
WRITING DOWN THE BONES by Natalie Goldberg
Presented as meditative essays on building and strengthening a writing practice, Goldberg offers exercises, advice, and vignettes from her 30 years as a writer to help you approach your practice with new eyes.
WRITING PAST DARK by Bonnie Friedman
If you`ve lost your writing way because of envy, fear, writer`s block, or distraction, reach for a chapter in this book for clues on how to get unstuck.
A WRITER`S GUIDE TO PERSISTENCE by Jordan Rosenfeld
Full of journaling prompts and advice for balancing your writing life with your, well, actual life, this book could be a great weekly "recovery" practice for writers who have lost their practice or need to build a new one.
So, tell me: What books (or other resources) have inspired you or helped heal your writing practice? Let me know in the comments below.
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#editorslife #editing #writingmeme #writersblock #writersofinstagram #writing #amwriting #writer #writingcommunity #authorsofinstagram #authors #authorsofig #indieauthor #indieauthors #indieauthorsofinstagram #freelanceeditors #editor #bookeditor #fantasywriter #horrorwriter #scifiwriter #magicwordsediting #fantasyauthor #writersnetwork #novelist #writingcommunityofig #horrorcommunity #fantasynovel #writerslife #selfpublishing
Dec 5
NOW ACCEPTING WAITLIST SIGNUPS
I`m booked with editing projects until March 2024. But! If you`re the type who loves to plan ahead, or you have a spring publishing schedule, sign up now to get on my waitlist for the following services:
ππ» line editing
ππ» copy editing
ππ» story assessments
ππ» query assessments and editing
Waitlist members are contacted on a first come, first served rolling basis.
Want to add your name?
π― Visit this link: www.magicwordsediting.com
π Send me a DM
ππ» Or click the link in my bio
*Got a smaller project? I might be able to work you in before my next opening. Let`s talk!
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#bookeditor #copyeditor #lineeditor #proofreader #writingtips #writingtipsandtricks #indiesareworthit #indiepublishingcommunity #amediting #amrevising
Dec 4
"The first draft is just you telling yourself the story." β attributed to Terry Pratchett
Did you finish #NaNoWriMo2023 yesterday, friend? Whether you reached 50,000 words or 50 β CONGRATULATIONS!
You`ve taken the very first step toward a published novel: writing the first draft.
As you continue on this journey, keep these words of wisdom from (probably) Terry Pratchett in mind. You`ve now told yourself the story; from here, every revision will build upon the bare structure you put down.
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#indieauthorsunite #selfpublishedauthor #indiebooks #fantasywriter #fantasyauthor #indieauthorcommunity
Dec 1
Er, you missed a few . . . π
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#bookeditorneeded #indieauthorsunite #indieauthorcommunity #indieauthortips #aspiringindieauthors #supportindieauthors #editorslife #aspiringauthorsofig #fantasyauthors #amwritingscifi #authorsofinsta #aspiringwriter #authorgram #iamwriting #writingcommunityofig #aspiringauthor #indieauthorsofinstagram #newauthor #writingadvice #indieauthor #authorsofig #writersofinsta #amediting #editingmeme #writingmeme #wipaesthetic #authorslife #authorquotes #lifeofawriter #writerscorner
Nov 30
Now that #NaNoWriMo2023 is drawing to a close, you might be wondering what to do with your 50,000 words. One thought: get a manuscript assessment!
What is a manuscript assessment, and how can it help YOUR book? Answers below! ππ»
Definitions differ, but I describe a manuscript assessment as a review of your manuscript in its current state to evaluate whatever questions you might have about your draft.
Craft issues like plot, character development, pacing? Check.
The right publishing path for your completed book? You bet.
Genre and/or audience appropriateness? Yes!
Any and all of the above, and more. It`s super versatile.
And, while some editors believe a m/s assessment should only be done on a final revised copy, I disagree and offer them for even first drafts.
Here`s how a m/s assessment could help your book:
OVERALL GUIDANCE: Find out if your story`s on the right track (perfect for NaNoWriMo projects)
A SECOND SET OF EYES: A trained editor`s help to find open plot holes or unanswered questions (before readers do)
GENERATE IDEAS/OUTLINES: Get unstuck through a brainstorm of ideas or even an outline for your rewrite
HELP WITH STORY CONVENTIONS: Confirm your story fits your desired audience or genre
ID WRITING ISSUES: Pinpoint writing habits that need to go in the final draft
TRIM WORD COUNT: Learn the best ways to trim word count (or add words)
FIND A PUBLISHING PATH: Get a recommendation for the best publishing path for the book
Find out more about the benefits of a manuscript assessment (hint: it`s usually cheaper than a dev edit!) at the link in my bio.
Over to you: Have you ever gotten a manuscript assessment on a draft? Let me know in the comments!
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#amediting #editingtip #amrevising #editingadvice
Nov 28
Are you thiiiiisss close to finishing #NaNoWriMo2023? CONGRATS!
After you`ve let that 50K words sit for a hot minute, self-editing is the next step on your publishing journey.
But what do you tackle first? What`s appropriate to fix on this first pass? Here are a few ideas:
π€·π» THINGS THAT DON`T BELONG: Look for story threads, characters, or events that don`t belong. (Remember to remove ALL references to whatever you take out!)
π€¨SCENES WHERE NOTHING HAPPENS: Got a scene that meanders or has no impact on the plot or characters? Nix it.
ππ REPEATING SCENES/SPEECH/EVENTS: If your characters say or do the same things more than once in different parts of the story, take out the repeats.
π΅βπ« CONTINUITY ERRORS: If a character or object appears where he or it shouldn`t or in a way that shouldn`t happen, flag it and fix it. (Anyone remember the Starbucks cup in Game of Thrones? Ouch.)
π€ͺ LOGIC PROBLEMS: Story elements and events need to make sense. If they don`t, take them out or revise.
Over to you, friend. What`s something hilarious you found on your first pass through one of your books? Let me know in the comments!
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#editingtips #amediting #amrevising #publishing #writingtips #supportindieauthors #writinganovel
Nov 27
