Hiring an editor

AP Photo: Bookstore

I’ve just had my first go at hiring an editor. My first novel is complete and I’ve revised it so many times that I can recite the entire thing in my sleep. But I can see a few problems in it. The pacing in the first several chapters is slower than I’d like and no matter how I’ve rearranged and rewritten, I just can’t seem to share the essential details without the story taking a hit. So, I decided to call in the professionals. But like any other business transaction, I wanted to do my homework first. I subscribe to Writer’s Digest and have noticed adds for editors near the back of the magazine, so I thumbed through my latest copy and started checking out websites.

I dug through about 20 different editor websites. Some were intriguing and clearly laid out, detailing services provided, costs, contact information, testimonials from previous clients and even samples of their work. Others were hard to read, provided little to no information regarding cost, did not easily identify services or what they entailed, and provided no mention of previous work. I immediately reduced the pile to 15. Seeking further information, I started digging deeper into the websites. On the testimonial page, where authors who’ve worked with the editor previously sing their praises, I found author names and book titles, so I plugged that information into the internet, seeking more information on the author and his/her books, viewing his/her websites, seeing if his/her books were still in print, etc.

Next I sent out brief emails to my narrowed down field, asking for more information on their services and costs. The responses were telling. The concept for my novel is fairly unique and doesn’t neatly fit into the popular fiction or classic literature mold. However, I believe it’s marketable and worth publishing. Most of the editors replied back with their surprise and interest in the topic, due to its distinctive nature, but a few didn’t even mention the topic in their reply. That doesn’t make them bad editors, but it did give me a notion that perhaps they might not be as passionate about the topic as I am.

Next I looked for editors who were willing to take a look at some of my work before quoting me on the particular service they thought was appropriate for the book. Not all work needs the same level of service, but without sampling my writing, how could an editor tell me what they thought I needed? Again, this eliminated a couple editors. I also wanted someone who responded to the small sampling of my work with enthusiasm. I wanted the story to pique their interest and my writing to appeal to them. I had an idea of how much work would need to be put into my manuscript, so it was affirming to hear most editors come back to me with very similar suggestions for what needed attention.

Finally, I looked for an editor that would fit my budget, which was neither super low, nor high. The highest price isn’t always the best service and the lowest price doesn’t always provide the best value. Once I finalized my selection, a simple contract was drawn up and exchanged between us. I’m excited for the next step in our business relationship and to see where she and I can take my book. Hopefully I will be the next testimonial on her website!
 

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