FAQs
Who Does the Editing at Erika’s Editing?
Unless you are specifically contracted with Fidel Louis, all editing is done by me, Erika DeSimone. Manuscripts are never outsourced. However, when proofreading is required for a manuscript that I have edited, I do call on Fidel or other trained proofreaders to assist me, as is proper editorial practice.
Do You Offer a Free Consultation?
Yes. Visit my contact page for details.
Do I Really Need to Provide an Outline of my Whole Book?
For developmental editing and line editing projects, an outline (and, in fiction, a character listing) is 100% necessary. For copyediting projects, sometimes—but not always—a synopsis (with a character listing if your work is fiction) will do instead.
Will You Sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement?
Of course. With or without such formalities, discretion and confidentiality are always a part of my services. (All Erika's Editing Agreements include a reasonable expectation of privacy clause.)
Under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, an author has an implied copyright, with no initial registration required, to both published and unpublished manuscripts. However, if you would like me to sign an NDA as well, you may have your attorney prepare one.
Under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, an author has an implied copyright, with no initial registration required, to both published and unpublished manuscripts. However, if you would like me to sign an NDA as well, you may have your attorney prepare one.
My Book Is 80,000 Words. How Long Will It Take to Edit?
Without knowing the level of service needed, the scope of the project, or the strength of your writing, I cannot give you an estimate. Once these factors are ascertained, I base my hourly estimates on a formula derived from the Editorial Freelancers Association’s rate guide. I am a member of the EFA.
Client Needs & Editorial Craft
I Want an Editor with Experience. Which Houses Have You Been Associated with?
Either as Erika's Editing, or as Erika DeSimone, I have worked for or with:
I Am a First-Time Author; The Editing Process Is New to Me. Can You Help?
Yes. I have worked with first-time, emerging, and established authors from around the globe. We will work together to identify your needs. When approached as a partnership, the editing process doesn't have to be scary. Please review my editorial philosophy page for more information.
English Is My Second (or third) language. Can You
Work with Me? Yes! If you are talented enough to have writing skills in multiple languages, I would be happy to work with you. I have edited the English works of native speakers of French, Hebrew, Kreyòl, Marathi, Spanish, and Ukrainian.
My Manuscript Is Era-Specific. Do You Edit Works Set
in Historical Periods? Yes. My own book, Voices Beyond Bondage, focuses on America's 19th century black-owned press. I have extensive knowledge of the post-colonial era and the 19th century, with a special focus on race, slavery, and women's rights. Regardless of the time period, era-specific editing involves a keen eye for speech, anachronisms, and facts.
Will You Format and Publish My Book?
No. I do not offer formatting services at this time, and Erika's Editing is not a self-publisher. I will, however, discuss with you the pros and cons of self-publishing, as well as help you steer clear of known predatory self-publishers.
I'm Looking for a Content Writer or a Ghostwriter. Can You Help?
No. Writing and editing, although closely related, are not the same skills. In developmental editing, I will identify spots that need fleshing out and will offer possible directions, but it will be up to you to write this content. Visit my services page for more information.
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Billing & Financial
What Is Your Billing Cycle?
Billing is twice monthly, on (or about) 15th and 30th. I employ time-tracking software to ensure that billable hours are recorded accurately, and clients receive a time-tracked report with each invoice.
I Prefer to Hire Via a Third-Party Platform. Where
Can I Find You? If you prefer, you may contract me through Upwork, a reputable freelancing site, where I have built a strong, client-driven profile. Contracts facilitated by Upwork are subject to Upwork's terms. A 5% fee will be added to my rate to partially defray the cost I incur for using this site. Costs for employers, if any, will be your responsibility.
Do You offer Fixed-Price or Per-Word Contracts?
No. My service is one of partnership, support, consultation, and expertise: my rate is hourly. Editorial agencies and self-publishers that purport per-word rates and/or lightning-fast turnaround times are usually interested in volume, not necessarily in quality or individual author support.
What are your polices on late payments?
When a invoice remains unpaid past your contracted due date, work on your project may, at the discretion of Erika's Editing, stop immediately until payment is received in full.
For invoices that are past due by one week or more, or when a client’s behavior reflects a history of late or insufficient payment, Erika’s Editing regretfully reserves the right to cancel the contract and return all project materials as-is, with no further editing. Payment for services rendered is not refundable; payment for any outstanding billable hours becomes due immediately. Other FAQs
I've Never Heard of a Certificate of Editorial Study. How Is It Different from a Master's Program?
For decades, New York University’s School of Professional Studies offered certificate programs for those seeking to strengthen their chosen area of interest. Rather than traditional academics, NYU’s professional courses focused on honing skills for real-world application. My Editorial Certificate reflects five intensive semester-length classes.
Why did you start Erika's Editing?
The publishing industry has changed dramatically in the last decade, and more authors are now taking independent routes to publication. Unfortunately, these alternate routes often have a dearth of industry resources—editing is chief among them. Your manuscript is your baby: it deserves the time, attention, and craft of a professional edit. My work is my art and passion, and I am proud to partner with my authors.
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