Professional Book Editing Services
Providing developmental edits for indie authors wanting to create the best story they can. Whether you’re writing a sweeping romance, a spicy fantasy, or contemporary fiction, my editorial services are designed for authors like you, with big visions, unique voices and publishing goals to match.
About
Hi, I'm Sophie, a freelance developmental editor and writer who is passionate about stories. I have over eight year experience of crafting romance stories and self-publishing, and believe that every story deserves to be told.
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Whether you’re writing commercial romance, spicy fantasy, or contemporary fiction, I specialise in helping indie authors sharpen their plot, deepen their characters, and polish their manuscript so it resonates with readers and stands out in a competitive market.
With a strong background in creative writing, editing, and project management, I bring both analytical insight and big picture thinking to every project.
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​As a seasoned writer, I know what it’s like to be too close to your own work to see the saggy middles, the flat character development, and the exposition in the first chapters. I’ve sat there wondering why my story isn’t working or doubting if it does. My job is to bring clarity to those situations, to give you the confidence to craft the best story you can.
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My credentials:
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Over 8 years of writing and editing experience
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Degree in Creative Writing and English Literature
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Strong understanding of genre fiction, tropes, and reader expectations
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Project delivery experience that keeps your edit smooth, on-schedule, and stress-free
My Editing Philosophy
I believe editing is about collaboration, clarity, and craft. My feedback is honest, thoughtful, and actionable. I’ll help you identify what’s working, what’s getting in the way, and how to make your story fully reflect your vision.
What is developmental editing?
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Editing happens in stages, and the developmental edit comes at the start. It looks at the big picture: your plot, your pacing, your character development, structure and voice. It lays the foundations of your story ready to make it “pretty” at the later stages. I am not a copy/line editor or a proofreader, although I will point out repeated errors if I spot them.
Editorial Packages
I provide different packages to suit, but if you can’t see what you’re looking for, get in touch and we can chat about your requirements.
Every package comes with a free sample edit of two pages (double spaced) so you can get a feel for my editing style and see if we could work together.
Story Starter Assessment -
£150
This package is for authors in the early stages of drafting who need guidance on whether the story set up is working.
Includes:
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- Review of first 10,000 words
- Editorial letter (this is a report style letter that gives information on the key points with examples)
- Comments on voice, pacing, character setup, plot hook
- Suggestions for strengthening your opening chapters
Manuscript Critique – £400
This is an overview edit of your full manuscript, ideal if you’ve finished the first few drafts and need guidance on the full structure.
Includes:
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- Read-through of full manuscript (up to 80k words)
- In-depth editorial letter covering:
Structure & pacing
Character arcs
World-building & tone
Plot holes & story logic
- Overarching inline margin comments
- Includes 30-min follow-up call
Full Developmental Edit –
£900
This is for authors wanting a deeper and more collaborative story development.
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Includes:
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- Full manuscript edit (up to 120k words) with extensive inline comments
- In depth and detailed editorial letter covering:
Structure & pacing
Character arcs
World-building & tone
Plot holes & story logic
- Specific scene-by-scene notes and suggestions
- Includes 60-min strategy call
- E-mail support for further questions
Alexa Young, CA
"Sophie was absolutely amazing! I knew that there was something that wasn't working in my plot but couldn't work out exactly what the issue was or how to fix it. Sophie was able to identify the exact areas that I needed to work on and helped me identify which scenes needed re-working. I'm so happy with the story now and, when it came to publishing, felt confident that I was putting out the best version I possibly could. The feedback session was exactly what I'd been needing; and opportunity to talk through the story and to problem solve without judgement. I would highly recommend Sophie if you’re looking for a developmental edit!"
- Helen
Morgan James, NY
"A great testimonial can boost your brand’s image. Click to edit and add your own."
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What is developmental editing, and how is it different from copyediting or proofreading?Developmental editing focuses on the big-picture elements of your story — plot structure, pacing, character development, worldbuilding, and genre expectations. It’s the first stage of editing. Copyediting and proofreading come later, when your structure is solid and you're ready to refine grammar, style, and typos.
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Who is this service best for?This is ideal for indie or self-publishing authors writing romance, fantasy, or contemporary fiction who want clear, professional feedback on what’s working and what’s not in their manuscript. Whether you’re preparing for launch, querying, or revising a first draft, I can help.
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Do I need a finished manuscript?Yes, your manuscript should be complete (even if it’s a rough draft), unless you are opting for the starter package. I can’t give meaningful structural feedback on an unfinished story but I don’t mind messy! As long as you’re open to feedback, you’re ready.
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Do you work with first-time authors?Absolutely! I love working with new and emerging writers. My feedback is always clear, kind, and constructive. My goal is to empower, not overwhelm.
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What genres do you edit?I specialise in: Romance (all subgenres: contemporary, spicy, slow burn, etc.) Fantasy and Romantast Contemporary Fiction I lean heavily into the commercial side rather than literary. If you’re unsure if your genre fits, feel free to ask
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Will your edit make changes to my manuscript?No, I won’t rewrite or change your actual text. My job is to offer insightful feedback and suggestions so you can revise with clarity and intention. You stay in creative control.
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How long does the editing process take?Turnaround time depends on word count and my current booking schedule, but typically: 60k–80k words: 4–6 weeks 90k–120k words: 6–8 weeks I’ll confirm a delivery date when you book.
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Can I book you in advance?Yes! I recommend booking 4–6 weeks ahead if possible. I work with a limited number of authors at a time to give each project the attention it deserves.
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What do I receive after the edit?You’ll receive what is listed above for each package.
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How do I get started?Head to my Contact page or fill out my editing enquiry form with your manuscript details. I’ll get back to you with availability, a quote, and next steps!
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How does payment work?I take a 25% deposit at the time of booking and the balance is due after completion of the project. You will be invoiced for each, and they can be paid via bank transfer or you can make a card payment if requested.