Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of edit do I need?
A developmental edit works on the big picture elements of your book, the macro level—do you have questions about how certain characters or plot points are working? The developmental edit is for you.
A line edit works on the sentence level, the micro level—do you feel like your dialogue and transitions could use some polishing? Is your manuscript functioning as a whole but you feel like you can see all the labor you put in? You’re in need of a line edit to make your prose move more fluid and sound more melodic. I’ll help you cover your tracks and make your work look effortless. Note: Currently we are scaling back the number of line edit-only clients we take on. We take the work of a line edit very seriously. While many editors offer line edit without doing developmental edit on a manuscript first, at this time we are assessing whether it feels ethical to polish something that we often see needs structural work beyond the scope of the line edit. That being said, we are taking on a select few so do not hesitate to inquire.
Are you looking for a holistic edit that comprises developmental edits, line edits, and close one-on-one work? Is this book a commitment you are willing to make energetically, consistently, and financially? The Full Moon Package is for you.
Explore our services to find your best match!
How soon can you start?
We accept new bookings on a rolling basis and tend to book out 3-4 months in advance, so please plan ahead. We live in a society in which we have grown accustomed to getting exactly what we want, exactly when we want it. But you took the time to work on your book, and it will serve you well to start thinking about making a time commitment to the revision process. Of course, there are times when slots open up and exceptions can be made. If you need an editor ASAP, we may be able to work with you on a timeline so please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You are also welcome to join our waitlist should a spot open up, which you will have access to once you fill out our query form.
How should i format my manuscript?
We accept manuscripts saved as Microsoft Word .doc and .docx files since we edit using Track Changes. Please format your manuscript in Times New Roman 12-point font, double-spaced. We cannot work in GoogleDocs, .txt, or .rtf.
Do you offer packages?
Yes, we offer the following packages:
Full Moon: a deluxe package that includes up to three rounds of Developmental Edits, a Line Edit, and a discount on the Publishing Consult.
Half Moon: includes one round of Developmental Edits, a follow-up call, a Line Edit, and a discount on the Publishing Consult.
Querying Package: includes a Query Letter Assessment and First Chapter Polish.
Self-Publishing Package: Includes a Developmental Edit, Line Edit and Cover Copy.
Do you offer copyediting and proofreading?
Not at this time—but we know some of the best copyeditors and proofreaders in the business! Let us know if you’d like a referral.
I notice you don’t have a pricing page—how much will an edit cost?
Editorial costs vary by project type/scope/genre and word count is a factor as well. Don’t be afraid to reach out—we value your story and we work within a range of prices when we can.
Do you offer sliding scale?
New Moon Editorial is deeply committed to doing our part to make the editorial process accessible to everyone. At this time, we are offering a limited number of sliding scale slots for the year to LGBTQ and BIPOC authors (full for 2022). In the future, we hope to offer more robust sliding scale options.
Do you offer diversity reads?
That is a service we would love to offer in the future as we expand—in the meantime, we can offer some wonderful referrals.
When will I hear from you?
Our typical initial response time is 2-3 business days, so if you have an urgent booking request please put URGENT in your query subject line. Our inbox is closed on weekends, US national holidays, the last week in August and December, and the first week in January.