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BookBaby Professional Book Editing Services
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Self-Publishing Packages

Make no mistake: every book needs a professional edit before being published. That goes for James Patterson, Margaret Atwood, and yes, you too.

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Book Editing Services

Turn good writing into a great book with a professional editing service.

Questions? Call 856-554-2316

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Configure an Editing Service quote for your book.

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  • Editing Services Quote (11.28.2023)

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Self-Publishing Packages

Meet Patrick, one of our book experts!

Let him explain your editing options.

Whether you just started your book writing journey or you're on your tenth manuscript, you should consider a professional editing service. Book editors do more than make sure your I's are dotted and T's are crossed–they ensure your writing is fluid and poignant. The best way to make sure your book is perfectly polished before it's in print is to invest in professional editing services from a brand you can trust.

BookBaby Editing is for authors who want premium book editing or eBook editing services for an affordable price. Our exclusive network of editors works with traditionally published authors in every genre, including many on The New York Times Best Sellers list. Now, self-published authors have the opportunity to work directly with these top-flight book editors. Just start by choosing from one of our editing services below!

Choose the right editing service for you

Proofreading

Character-by-character review

$3 per page

  • For final step editing
  • Review typos and grammatical errors
Proofreading sample

View Proofreading sample

  • Character-by-character final review
    ? Our editors serve as the final set of eyes to view an author's manuscript. Many authors choose multiple rounds of book editing, and this round of editing can be of tremendous value.
  • Spelling and punctuation check
    ? BookBaby’s process works to detect and remove a wide range of spelling and punctuation mistakes, including confusion between words with similar spelling, typos and minor punctuation glitches.
  • Intensive grammar audit
    ? BookBaby’s editors are experienced in removing grammar glitches that range from wrong verb tenses, lack of agreement between subject and verb, and wrong prepositions. They will glean your files looking for issues with comma splices, run-on sentences and more.
  • Adherence to Chicago Manual of Style
  • Estimated Timeline: 6-8 days
  • Learn more about Proofreading

Copy Editing

Word-by-word mechanical edit

$7 per page

  • Best for non-fiction authors
  • Covers technical consistency
Copy Editing sample

View Copy Editing sample

  • Word-by-word mechanical edit
  • Word choice and syntax inspection
    ? Copy editing focuses on an author's choice of words in concert with sentence syntax and context. With the structure of a story established, our authors carefully review the range of words that our authors have chosen. Their ‘second set of eyes’ helps to establish an author's style and confidence in the expression of language that his target audience will understand. This is coupled with a focus on editing for proper syntax. This process involves checking additional aspects of the manuscript such as sentence structure, transitions, parallelism, sentence variety, and conciseness.
  • Spelling and punctuation check
    ? BookBaby’s process works to detect and remove a wide range of spelling and punctuation mistakes, including confusion between words with similar spelling, typos, and minor punctuation glitches.
  • Intensive grammar audit
    ? BookBaby’s editors are experienced in removing grammar glitches that range from wrong verb tenses, lack of agreement between subject and verb, and wrong prepositions. They will glean your files looking for issues with comma splices, run-on sentences and more.
  • Basic proofreading
  • Adherence to Chicago Manual of Style
  • Estimated Timeline: 7-9 days
  • Learn more about Copy Editing

Line Editing

Line-by-line stylistic editing

$10 per page

  • Most popular editing for authors!
  • Perfect for 1st time authors
Line Editing sample

View Line Editing sample

  • Line-by-line stylistic editing
  • Intensive overall structural edit
    ? A structural edit is the process that comes first, after a manuscript is completed. It involves looking at the ‘big picture’ elements of the narrative and characters and examining which of these elements are working and which could be improved, cut or changed altogether.
  • Word choice and syntax inspection
    ? Our editors understand that word choice is an important part of any story. The precise choice of words reflects an author's style and confidence in the expression of language that his target audience will understand. Our editors seek to maintain consistency in this key element of the manuscript. Editing for proper syntax involves checking additional aspects of the manuscript, such as sentence structure, transitions, parallelism, sentence variety, and conciseness.
  • Plot and pacing review
    ? Our editors check to see if the plot plausible: Does it make sense? Are there any gaping plot holes that need fixing? A pacing review checks to see if the narrative is always moving forward. Are there parts of the story that lag and slow the reader down?
  • Survey transition elements
    ? Transitional devices are words or phrases that help carry a thought from one sentence to another, from one idea to another, or from one paragraph to another. Our editors check to ensure transitional devices link sentences and paragraphs together smoothly so that there are no abrupt jumps or breaks between ideas.
  • Audit tone and style
    ? Style and tone are elements of fiction. Our editors help the writer maintain their choice of style and tone to craft the story. Style refers to the writer’s choice of diction, sentence structure, literary techniques, and use of rhythm. While tone refers to the writer’s attitude toward his/her story and to the reader.
  • Review character development
    ? Character development is the process of building a unique, three-dimensional character with depth, personality, and clear motivations. Our editors look to help the authors boost and enhance each unique voice in the story, with particular attention to the changes a character undergoes over the course of a story as a result of their actions and experiences.
  • Writing flow enhancement
    ? Editors take a critical eye to the overall story creation. Does the style of writing suit the genre? Is the language overly flowery and verbose? Could the author add more lyrical elements to the manuscript?
  • Voice maintenance
    ? Our editors are looking for consistency. Is the overall voice and tense authentic and constant throughout the manuscript?
  • Basic proofreading
  • Editor's notes and comments
    ? After reviewing the entire manuscript, BookBaby’s editors compose an original set of notes and comments on the manuscript. It’s one of the most valuable aspects of the line editing and our authors have found these to be both instructive and inspirational.
  • Adherence to Chicago Manual of Style
  • Estimated Timeline: 8-10 days
  • Learn more about Line Editing

Not sure what type of editing you need?
Give us a call at 856-554-2316 or take our quiz.

Why trust us to edit your book?

BookBaby's network of editors is experienced with non-fiction books like biographies and academic journals, and a range of fiction novels too—from Sci-Fi to Romances. Many are seasoned professionals who have worked with bestselling authors across multiple genres, as well as a few publishing houses too.

All editors have an academic degree in English, Communications, Education, Literature, Journalism, or another study relevant to publishing. Each editor generally uses the industry-standard Chicago Manual of Style to complete their work. But many are also adept within other popular styles, including AP and MLA.

You can expect to have your edited manuscript ready in 6 to 10 business days.

BookBaby's network of editors

Not sure what type of book editing service you need?

Download our free editing guide

Got questions?

Call us at 856-554-2316

How BookBaby’s editing process works

1. Choose your editing package

1. Choose the book editing service you need.

2. Upload your Word document

2. Upload your Word document.

3. Retrieve your edited manuscript

3. Receive your professionally edited manuscript in 6-10 business days.

You don’t have to place a book order to take advantage of our professional book editing services. All you need is your finished manuscript to get things started.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a book editor?

Yes!

Having your manuscript reviewed by a professional book editor is a rewarding experience. In addition to the improvements to your manuscript, you will also benefit from the feedback on your writing that only a finely tuned professional editor can provide. Writers often comment on the lifelong benefits enjoyed from their very first editing experience. If a writer wants to ensure they are creating an impactful and enjoyable reading experience for their readers, then editing is a no-brainer. Remember, nothing is more damaging to your author brand than publishing a book with embarrassing typos and grammatical errors. Read more.

Can I speak with my editor?

Sorry, you cannot communicate directly with your editor. Our editing network is designed to be an efficient process. It's why we're able to quickly pair your project with a professional editor and deliver an edited manuscript within ten days. But, our editors do provide notes and overall comments. You’ll still receive expert suggestions in addition to professional edits.

How much does book editing cost?

BookBaby Book editing prices:
Line editing: $10 per page
Copy editing: $7 per page
Proofreading: $3 per page

What is the difference between copy editing and proofreading?

Book proofreading is the vital last step of the editing process. After your manuscript has received its professional edit, your book proofreader will perform a final review to fix any remaining mechanical and grammar issues before your book is printed and published. Proofreading is not a structural edit and instead focuses on eliminating minor errors and inconsistencies.

Copy editing is a basic word-by-word edit that addresses grammar, usage, and consistency issues. Your copyeditor will correct continuity issues in your story and ensure your manuscript is free of technical problems or major loose ends that’ll confuse your readers. Read More

What is the difference between copy editing and line editing

Copy editing is a basic word-by-word edit that addresses grammar, usage, and consistency issues. Your copyeditor will correct continuity issues in your story and ensure your manuscript is free of technical problems or major loose ends that’ll confuse your readers.

Line editing is an intensive structural edit that focuses on the finer aspects of language—the flow of ideas, transition elements, tone, and style. Your line editor will take a critical look at your manuscript’s writing flow, language usage, and character development, and make suggestions that ensure that you’re communicating your story effectively while maintaining your voice. Read More

How do editing services work?

BookBaby's Editing Services are easy to use. Simply follow these steps:

1) Setup your manuscript file to these specifications:

  • English or Spanish language only
  • File Type: Microsoft Word format (.doc or .docx)
  • Page Size: 8.5x11"
  • Pages Margins: Set to 1" on all 4 sides left, right, top and bottom.
  • Font Type: Times New Roman
  • Font Size: 12pt.
  • Line Spacing: Double
Read more.

How should I setup my manuscript file for editing?

Only a single manuscript file is accepted for editing services. Book cover files are not needed nor are they accepted.

Manuscript specifications:

  • English or Spanish language only
  • File Type: Microsoft Word format (.doc or .docx)
  • Page Size: 8.5x11"
  • Pages Margins: Set to 1" on all 4 sides left, right, top and bottom.
  • Font Type: Times New Roman
  • Font Size: 12pt.
  • Line Spacing: Double
Read more.

How long will my editing project take?

Editing is inherently a very customized service, so we're unable to guarantee a turnaround time for these projects. We can, however, give a rough estimate based on the length of your manuscript:

  Proofreading Copy Editing Line Editing
< 50 pages < 7 business days < 8 business days 8-10 business days
51-200 pages 7-8 business days 8-10 business days 10-12 business days
201-350 pages 9-11 business days 10-12 business days 12-15 business days
351-500 pages 12-14 business days 12-15 business days 15-17 business days
501+ pages 15+ business days 16+ business days 18+ business days

Can I see a before and after sample?

Book Editing Sample

Do you provide eBook editing services?

Yes, our book editing services and packages include eBooks, too! You can upload your manuscript using the same instructions and expect the same wait times.