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Editing Services

from first draft to power horse manuscript

Image by Avi Theret

Developmental Edits

For stories that need strong bones before they can gallop.

This is big-picture editing: plot, structure, pacing, character development, voice, and genre expectations. We dig into what’s working, what’s wobbly, and where the story can grow stronger.

  • What’s included:

    • 1 full, in-depth editorial read

    • Detailed editorial letter (6–15+ pages)

    • In-manuscript comments throughout

  • Rounds:

    • One comprehensive round, with optional follow-up Q&A

  • Best for: Early drafts, major revisions, or manuscripts that need structural guidance.

  • Estimated price:

    • $4 per page (double-spaced, 12-font, 250 word pages)
      (Typical range for a 60 to 80K word novel is $960–$1,280, depending on length and complexity)

Line + Copyedits

For when the story is sound, and it’s time to make it sing.

This is where craft meets polish. We work line by line to refine voice, tighten prose, clarify meaning, and correct grammar, consistency, and style to meet publishing standards—all while protecting your unique authorial voice.

  • What’s included:

    • Line-level edits for flow, tone, and clarity

    • Copyediting for grammar, punctuation, usage, and consistency

    • Style sheet for your manuscript

  • Rounds:

    • 1 full round of line + copyediting

    • Optional discounted second pass after author revisions 

  • Best for: Revised drafts preparing for submission or publication.

  • Estimated price:

    • $3 per page (double-spaced, 12-point font, 250-word pages)

    • (Typical range for a manuscript of 60-80k words: $720–$960)

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Horses in Field

Proofreading

For the final walk-around before your book leaves the barn.

This is the last careful check after formatting and layout. We catch lingering typos, punctuation errors, spacing issues, and small inconsistencies—without touching style or structure.

  • What’s included:

    • Final-pass proofread

    • Corrections to spelling, punctuation, formatting, and minor errors

  • Rounds:

    • 1 clean, final pass

  • Best for: Fully edited, typeset manuscripts ready for print or upload.

  • Estimated price:

    • $2.50 per page (double-spaced, 12-point font; 250 words)
      (Typical range of a 60-80K novel: $600–$800)

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Which Service Is Right for Me?

Every manuscript arrives at a different stage of training—and each needs a different kind of care.

  • Choose Developmental Editing if…
    Your story is still finding its stride. Maybe the plot wobbles, the pacing stumbles, or the characters want a bit more room to breathe. This is where we help your draft build strong legs and a steady gait.

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  • Choose Line + Copyediting if…
    The story can already pull its weight, but the harness needs adjusting. We’ll smooth the sentences, refine the voice, and make sure every line moves cleanly and with purpose.

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  • Choose Proofreading if…
    Your book is saddled, polished, and nearly out the gate. This is the final walk-around—catching the small stumbles before your story heads into the world.

 

Not sure where your manuscript stands? Contact us! We’re happy to help you choose the service that will carry your story farthest.

© 2026 by Draft Horse Editorial

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