Testimonials
Cidney was an incredible editor to work with. Her feedback was insightful, her edits were thoughtful and precise, and she helped strengthen the story in all the right places. She was collaborative, encouraging, and truly cared about the heart of the project. I highly recommend working with her.
– S.K., Fantasy Romance Project
Her feedback was thoughtful and encouraging, even when pointing out areas that needed work. I never felt like she was trying to rewrite my story. She helped me clarify my vision and deepen the romance in a way that felt authentic to my characters.
– Alexis W., Romantasy Project
Cidney’s feedback was exactly what I needed. She has such a great eye for what’s working and what needs a little more clarity. Her notes were clear, thoughtful, and never overwhelming.
– Olivia H., Fantasy Project
FULL MANUSCRIPT CRITIQUE
Word Count Rate: $0.026 per word
Turn-Around Time: 20-60 days (dependent on length)
If you have a finished full-length novel or novella and want a critique of your manuscript, this service is for you. I will provide feedback on both the developmental and line levels.
Developmental editing will focus on all the key story elements, including structure, plot, pacing, characterization, setting, world-building, voice, and more.
For line-editing side, I’ll focus on enhancing word choice, tightening sentences, removing unnecessary words and phrases, polishing descriptions, and improving the overall readability and flow of your prose. During this process, I’ll be sure to maintain your writing style and story’s voice.
For clarification, line editing does not focus on grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Those mechanical elements are perfected during copy editing or proofreading. Rather, line editing deals with the language and creative content of the manuscript.
You’ll receive comments throughout the manuscript, overall notes after each chapter, and an editorial letter highlighting the story’s strengths and areas for revision.
DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING
Word Count Rate: $0.020 per word
Turn-Around Time: 20-30 days
If you’re looking for editorial feedback on your full manuscript as a whole before polishing it on the line level, developmental editing is for you. This service focuses on the big-picture elements of your work, including structure, plot, pacing, characterization, setting, world-building, voice, and more. You’ll receive overall notes at the end of each chapter and an editorial letter highlighting the story’s strengths and areas for revision.
PROOFREADING
Word Count Rate: $0.014 per word
Turn-Around Time: 20-30 days
No matter how many times we read our own work, there will be mistakes. I can make sure your manuscript is free of spelling and grammatical mistakes.
OPENING PAGES CRITIQUE
First 5 Pages
Flat Rate: $15
Turn-Around Time: 2-3 days
First 10 Pages
Flat Rate: $25
Turn-Around Time: 2-3 days
First 50 Pages
Flat Rate: $45
Turn-Around Time: 3-5 days
If you’re seeking feedback on the beginning of your story, you can choose from getting your first five, ten, or fifty pages critiqued. This service includes comments in the manuscript on both the developmental and line levels, overall notes at the end of each chapter. I will also provide an editorial letter highlighting the manuscript’s strengths and areas for revision.
SHORT STORY CRITIQUE
Flat Rate: $30 for stories up to 5,000 words
Turn-Around Time: 3-5 days
Need to polish a short fiction piece for submission or publication? A short story critique includes both developmental and line edits. I’ll provide feedback on structure, characterization, setting, voice, and more, while also focusing on overall flow and readability at the line level. I will provide comments throughout the piece, and an editorial letter highlighting the story’s strengths and areas for revision.
Ready to make your work shine?
Complete the form below! Be sure to include your word count and genre. I aim to respond to all messages within 24 hours. I can’t wait to work with you!
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Cidney Mayes 