Developmental editing focuses on the foundation of a story. My developmental editing services are all aimed at helping the author express the essence of the story in the most effective way possible. To do this, I look at narrative structure, plot, character development and character dynamics, and pacing. My stand-out strengths as a developmental editor lie in helping the author get to the heart of what they want to say by enhancing character development and addressing pacing issues.
Developmental editing is not line editing or proofreading; i.e., I do not read for syntax, grammar, or other issues in prose on a language level. I also do not read for typos.
Included in a developmental edit is an editorial letter (10-25 pages, depending on word count and the amount of feedback a manuscript necessitates) that includes chapter-by-chapter and arc-by-arc feedback, notes on stand-out and problematic moments, and actionable revision suggestions. In addition to an editorial letter, a developmental edit can be accompanied by a call or email exchanges (whichever is preferred) to talk through notes and revision suggestions.
My current rate for developmental editing is $0.01 per word. I offer a free read-through of your first chapter or first 5k words (whichever is longer) with notes and feedback, as well as an introductory call or email exchange, in order to see if we're a good author-editor fit. I generally only take on manuscripts over 30k words.