Fine Tuning Fiction: A Writer’s Guide to Developmental, Line, and Copy Editing
When I say that I’m an editor, most people assume I spend my days focused on spelling, grammar, and punctuation. They think of sentence diagramming, confusing homophones, or the oxford comma. And that’s all partly right, but editing includes much more than that. And I’m here to be your guide to all of it.
Editing has many facets, but it breaks down into three basic levels that all tackle different aspects of writing. It is common for a writer to go through all three levels with a professional editor, particularly if they are new to publishing or want to make a living from their books. Our most comprehensive editing package at Juicy Details Romance Editing includes three rounds of edits for one price that cascade down the levels from developmental, through line, and ending with a final copy edit. And if you aren’t sure what you need, we recommend starting with a manuscript critique (more info at the end) to get expert eyes on your story quickly and affordably.
Developmental Editing
The highest level and most structural edit, a developmental edit tackles things like character arcs, point of view, plot structure, story beats, pacing, and scene order. Many authors struggle with these topics and don’t know that there are editors out there who specialize in this type of editing. Editors like me love to tease out the gems in a story, making sure plot threads stay woven in the story, building emotional resonance between characters and readers, and keeping readers attention by fine-tuning the pace of the story.
Is developmental editing right for you? If any of these feel true, you might want to start with a developmental edit.
You are a writer still developing your craft, and you want to learn from an expert to build your skills.
You haven’t published a book yet and you want your debut to be as strong as possible to start building a loyal reader base.
You can tell something is wrong or missing in your story, but you can’t put your finger on exactly what you need to do to fix it.
Line Editing
Line editing, the middle level, is all about word choice, sentence and paragraph structure, and flow. It isn’t focused on the story specifically, the way developmental editing is. Instead, it’s about readability. This is where an editor cuts repetition, smooths clunky prose, and brings modern best writing practices into your story while preserving your unique authorial voice. A good line editor helps your manuscript sing for the reader, making it easier for them to disappear in your story world.
Is line editing right for you? If any of these feel true, you might want to start with a line edit.
You have published a few books, but reader feedback mentions clunky dialogue, getting pulled out of the story, or awkward phrasing.
You have a solid grasp of plotting, character development, and pace, but you want to build more prose writing skill.
Your mind works faster than your fingers, and you want some expert help smoothing, filling out and polishing your writing.
Copy Editing
Copy editing, which is the most granular level, is what most people think of when they hear editing. It includes word choice, punctuation, grammar, fact checking, and spelling. A professional copy editor understands best practices, creates a style sheet for the document, and is the last step before publishing. Proofreading falls under the broader umbrella of copy editing, and is often used synonymously, though it is more specific than just copy editing.
Is copy editing right for you? If any of these feel true, you might want to start with a copy edit.
You have a strong story and good prose but you’ve looked at your manuscript a million times and can’t see the errors anymore.
You are an experienced writer with many published books, and you want a professional set of eyes on your new book before it launches.
You know that grammar, spelling and word choices are not your strengths, and you want a polished manuscript without having to spend your time and energy on self-editing.
Manuscript Critique
If you want a budget friendly option that gives you direct feedback and guidance for next steps through an editorial letter, consider a manuscript critique. Generally, these include some specific advice about areas for improvement, strengths to lean into, and where to focus your energy for maximum effect. Our package at Juicy Details Romance Editing also includes our advice about the type of editing your manuscript could most benefit from, and personalized craft book recommendations to make your writing stronger. A manuscript critique is technically a type of developmental editing, but makes a perfect first step if you aren’t sure where to start. We recommend this to everyone, especially if you haven’t worked with a professional editor before.
How to choose the right editor?
It can be scary to put your work out there, especially for first time authors, and that’s why it’s so important to find an editor you trust. Good editors are invested in your success, and want to help your book be its best. Most editors, like us, offer sample edits so you can get a feel for the style of work they do, plus some of us also offer pre-contract zoom or phone meetings so you can see if we will be a good fit for you, as well as get specifics about what you are looking for in an edit. Editing should be a collaboration, a true partnership that has trust, respect, and empathy built into it. You deserve someone with expertise who can help bring out the best in you and your writing, so reach out to an editor today, and start your journey.
