Since joining MRP, I’ve had the honor of being the one that gets the first read of every story that comes to our inbox. I also am the one that does the first edit of the manuscripts, where I look at the overall development of the story. In a recent blog post, I described what a Developmental Editor does {You read that post here: What is Developmental Editing}
I recently finished my novel and sent it to our editor at MRP for the next round in the editing phase. Even though I know that the editor is here to help me and make my story the best it can be, there’s still that little part of me that is sitting in front of the computer thinking, “What if they hate it?!”
Even though I’m an Acquisition Editor, I’m also an author and I understand firsthand the feelings of sending your baby out to be read, critiqued, and edited. With that being said, here are five reasons why you need a Developmental Editor.
- As a writer, we become super close to our stories. After all, they are our “babies”. We’ve put our heart and soul into these stories, so it’s only natural that we may not see all of our mistakes, plot holes, etc. while we are editing. Developmental Editors bring fresh eyes to your story.
- Developmental Editors look at the overall picture of your novel. They take into consideration plot, themes, characterization, pov/voice, pacing/flow, dialogue, landscape, and style.
- They love to read! Developmental Editors are avid readers. They will look at your story with not only an editor’s eye but also from a reader’s perspective.
- Developmental Editors do not want to take anything away from your story, even though sometimes scenes may need to be cut. They want to listen to your ideas, wants, and hopes for your story. It’s your vision that brought the manuscript to where it is now, they simply want to help you make it even stronger.
- Bottom line: They care about your story, and you! They want your manuscript to reach its full potential.
Some publishing houses offer this type of service, and some may not. There are also freelance Developmental Editors, so take advantage of finding one to help you on your publishing journey.
Hugs,
Erin
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