Developmental editingDevelopmental editing for novels
If you’re at an early stage in your writing, you will find my Developmental Editing helpful.
What you get
- An active partner in shaping your story, from as early as you like
- Help with plot and structure
- A path from story idea to complete plan or finished manuscript
- Available in the TradPub Treatment bundle with line editing and proofreading
You need help taking your story idea from an early stage to a complete plan or finished manuscript, with an interesting, well-structured plot. My rates vary from 2¢ to 4¢ per word. Let’s talk about your project and see how I can help you.
The Developmental Edit is where I become an active partner in shaping your story from a relatively early stage.
Rates
My rates vary from 2¢ to 4¢ per word.
Estimated price by length
| Manuscript | Words | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Short story | 7,500 | $150–$300 |
| Novella | 30,000 | $600–$1,200 |
| Short novel | 50,000 | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Novel | 80,000 | $1,600–$3,200 |
| Epic | 120,000 | $2,400–$4,800 |
Price your exact word count, or read what novel editing costs.
Writers say
George has offered me incredibly incisive developmental edits and feedback on a number of fiction pieces, ranging from a 3,000 word short story, up to a 50,000 word novel. I almost always make the changes he suggests, and find the piece is always tighter, richer, and more fully-realized as a result. Highly recommended.J.P. Medved, author of Steampunk adventures and thoughtful thrillers.
George Donnelly did an excellent edit for one of my upcoming works. Not only was he thorough in the nuts and bolts of writing, the grammar and punctuation, but he also made several suggestions that will greatly improve the story. He found areas where I needed to work on consistency and clarity and suggested a way to build more tension at chapter ends. I highly recommend George for all of your editing needs and will definitely work with him again.Jeanette Raleigh, author of Moon Struck: A Hilarious Werewolf Romance.
George Donnelly did a thorough and professional job of editing one of my manuscripts. He caught several grammatical errors and made a number of suggestions for moving and improving the storyline. George is a pleasure to work with and his fees are very reasonable. I highly recommend his services.John D. Ottini, author of A Very Furry Christmas.
Questions
Should I get a developmental edit or a beta read?
The Beta Read is an evaluative option whereas the Developmental Edit invites me to become a highly active partner in shaping your story.
How do I pay?
I accept payment via PayPal, Stripe and crypto primarily but am flexible to meet your requirements. I require payment in advance (or partial scheduled payments) in order to begin work. Once you’re happy with the terms of the editing assignment, I’ll invoice you.
Are there discounts?
Even greater discounts are available for bulk contracted editing work and there is an automatic 10% additional discount for non-profit organizations.
Do you use AI?
No. Every edit is done by hand, just the heart and the mind.
Send me up to 5,000 words and I'll edit it for free, no strings attached. Email [email protected] now to get started.