Let's face it, editing can be expensive - even though it's important for producing a professional story. Let me help.
Background
I have 13 novels published with two novellas due out in 2019. Plus one non-fiction book. I've co-authored and edited one collection of short stories, and edited 2 other anthologies, including story development for most of the stories in them. My short stories have been short-listed in the Aurealis Awards and been a top-8 finalist in the USA Writers of the Future Contest (selected from thousands of entries). I have short stories appearing in several anthologies and e-mags. I've spent the last seven years intensively learning the craft from the best I can find. Happy to pass on my experience.
Pricing (in AUD)
Structural and Line Editing Short stories...(1 thorough pass) $0.03c/word (Length up to 10 000 words)
How it works... 1) You contact me with a query and with an idea of what work you'd like done and the time/deadline you need it by. 2) You can send me a 1000 word section for a sample-edit to see if my style suits you. 3) Then email me your Word document to admin@aikiflinthart.com and I'll read it to see if it's the type of story that best suits my skills. If it's not, I might be able to recommend someone else. 4) If it is, I'll send you back fee confirmation and my best estimate for a finish date (If it's needed back urgently, please let me know in your first contact so I can check my schedule) 5) If you're happy with that, I can send you an invoice and you can use Paypal for payment.
What you'll get... Structural edit - a marked up copy of the story in Word, with suggestions for improving pacing, scene structure, character arcs, story/plot arcs, plot holes, and key story turning points. Return time usually 1-2 weeks depending on story length Line edit - a marked up copy of the story in Word, with suggested options for word choices, sentence structure, repeated words, grammar and punctuation, jarring words, and character/plot/world-building inconsistencies. Return time 2-3 weeks depending on story length Manuscript assessment - 2-7 pages (depending on story length) of notes on story strengths & weaknessess, characterisation, plot arcs, story resolution, and general suggestions for improvement, if needed. Return time 1 week, depending on story length.
Your story will not be given/shared with anyone else, in any form, whilst it is in my possession. Copies will be deleted on completion of the requested service.
Testimonials
I am so happy I sent my manuscript to Aiki for an assessment. That particular story had been languishing on my hard drive for a few years, and while I knew it was pretty good I knew it could be much better. But I was too close to the story to see what needed fixing. Aiki was able to give me fantastic feedback on what worked and what didn’t, along with workable suggestions for how to make the story and the characters shine. Her assessment has made me excited about undertaking a thorough edit and then diving into the second book in the series. Money well spent, and I know I will be back for more. (Shelley Russell Nolan - author of the Reaper Series)
Aiki Flinthart has assessed and edited my writing for a couple of years now, and I can honestly say my work is better for her deft touch. She respects your style and does not stomp all over your story changing your voice or the magic that makes your writing unique. She has a gift for seeing the overarching story and drawing it altogether so it is stronger, with punch and emotional impact. Aiki is a delight to work with. She is professional, patient and has the light touch of great editor. I highly recommend her. - DA Kelly www.dakellyauthor.com
Approaching Aiki Flinthart to assess my manuscript was a positive step. Her feedback helped me make decisions where I had been indecisive. Aiki's feedback, also drew my attention to weaknesses in the plot. After making the changes she suggested, I am now confident that I will have a polished and professional manuscript to submit to a publisher. I will use and recommend her services, again. - Jindie Jackson, author.
Aiki provided a manuscript assessment for my middle grade novel. She returned a well-structured review of the manuscript that helped me to identify, pacing, plot, character and structure issues. In her review she provided steps for improvements that gave me clear direction and understanding. I cannot recommend her services highly enough. As an author, receiving a critique or assessment can be a very intimidating process. Aiki was very thorough in her analysis but most importantly very kind and very understanding of the personal attachment I held to my story. - Jem McCusker - author of "Stone Guardians and the Rise of Eden." (book being revised 2019)
As a first time author I needed extra nurturing to get my manuscript ready for publishing. Aiki Flinthart's expertise and attention to detail not only enabled me to complete my manuscript and get it published, but she also helped me to grow and develop as an author. I can't thank her enough and highly recommend her services to anyone. ~ Caitlyn M. McPherson
Aiki gave wholistic, prompt and detailed feedback. A bottomless well of experience and the catalyst who has inspired and encouraged me to become a better writer. - Ted Johnson
Aiki’s eye for detail has enabled me to greatly improve my writing. Every author should be so lucky to receive the editorial attention provided by her. A sound knowledge of the industry, combined with technical talent, ensures that your writing will be the very best that it can be. - Melanie Sienkiewicz