Line Editing

Polish Your Manuscript Line by Line

When you’ve self-edited your manuscript as well as you can, it’s time to polish it and smooth out the rougher edges with a full, top-to-bottom edit, line by line. Line editing  (also known as substantive editing) can easily be described as a language edit as opposed to a structural edit. This service is exclusive to works of fiction.

We will literally examine your manuscript line by line, checking for things like detail, consistency, tense, continuity, plot integrity, sentence structure, grammar, pacing, dialogue, and style.

Every sentence on the page builds a chain leading to the creation of your authentic voice, and it’s up to your line editor to check the strength of each and every link.

With line editing, our task is to elevate your writing style by streamlining your manuscript into a fluid, satisfying reading experience for your audience. We will work to identify the following common issues in manuscripts:

  • Inconsistencies in tone, style, and voice.
  • Clichés and mixed metaphors.
  • Inconsistencies in point of view
  • Awkward or unclear sentences
  • Repetition of sentence patterns or redundancy in story details
  • Overused words or phrases (“Crutch words”)
  • Any rough scene or chapter transitions
  • Grammatical and typographical issues
  • Other specific areas where you want us to pay special attention

Rate

Line Editing (1 pass): $8.50 (USD) per 1,000 words*

Contact Us to Book Now

Slots for this popular service tend to fill up quickly in our queue. Be sure to book as far out in advance as possible.

Due to the nature of a line edit, it’s important to note that in some cases, a manuscript may need more than a single pass. Based on your sample work, we may send you a quotation for a single pass and a quote for 2 passes. 

The beauty of being an independent author is the fact that you have the autonomy to accept or reject the recommendations your editor gives you. It’s common to revise and even rewrite sections of the manuscript after all editing projects. This is a natural process on the path to preparing your work for publication as professionally as possible.

You may also consider using our Developmental Edit/Line Edit combo service option that includes 2 passes for both service types.

Preferred Genres: Upmarket Fiction, Romance (all subgenres), Teen / YA (all subgenres), Cozy Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy. Contact us to submit a sample of your manuscript.

*Downpayment due upon acceptance of your work in the editing queue.