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Question: When do I pay a book editor!?
I am almost finished writing a novel (about ten chapters to go), and I am looking for a book editor!. So far, the average rate they go for (when compared to the determined length of my manuscript) is around $4,000 for the complete package (editing, consistency, lite research, etc!.)!. I can't afford that yet!. I was wondering when do writers pay editors!? Is some sort of payment plan made, or do they expect the money up front!? Or, if the book is published, do they get their claim out of the enroyalties!? If not, then is there another alternative method I could use to afford hiring an editor!?Www@QuestionHome@Com
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
Generally, I contract for a certain amount up front, a certain amount at halfway and the balance at the end when I edit!. You are making a wise decision to do it!. I believe that it is better to edit before the book gets into the hands of the publisher - when you can still call the shots!. Of course the book is going to be edited again by the publisher, but at that point you have no control!. According to the Standard Writers Contract, you will give up control completely at that point!. The smart author pays to edit first so that what they submit is in the best possible condition to catch the eye of publishers and when most of the editing work is still in their control!.
Shop around!. Generally, editors get 5 - 15 bucks a page based on 250 words!. Try Literary Marketplace in the library!. Many editors will edit the first couple pages for you as a sample of their work and write you up a summary of what they think needs done!. There are bargains out there!. If at all possible, look for someone who has experience with a major publishing house!. They know what sells!. They know how to craft your book to suit publishers the best without changing content or your voice!. They will work with you!. As for royalties, I know of a couple of authors who believe in giving their editors a point or two of royalties, because they believe that then the editor has the feeling of having a stake in the outcome of the book and works harder on it!. That is debatable!. Mostly I ghostwrite and I work both ways!. On some books, I do get points!. On others, straight fee!. Depends on the "author"!.
The alternative might be to seek out a student editor at a local college!. Most college kids are always in search of money and you might be able to get it done a good bit cheaper!. But get an idea of their work first!.
And with anyone you choose if they are professional - check with the standard Authors Beware sites to make sure they are legit and reliable before you sign contracts or send money or manuscripts!.
As for self publishing, I think that I have made my position clear many times here!. The answer is don't!.
Check my profile!. You will find I star all good Q and A on writing and publishing!. Some very successful authors have posted information here for you to use!. Feel free to skim through and find what is useful to you!.
Pax-CWww@QuestionHome@Com
Good publishers pay the authors, the authors should not have to pay them!. There are many "printing businesses" out there that will publish your book for you, as long as you pay the editor, for the printing, for the promotion, etc!. I would caution against dealing with these "printing businesses" as they are out to make money, whereas real publishers are out to make money by publishing and promoting good books!.
Good luck!Www@QuestionHome@Com
Most writers gets paid by the publishing company ie!. the book editor not the other way around!.Www@QuestionHome@Com
Are you self-publishing!? Editors usually are on the payroll of a publisher, and thus are paid by the publisherWww@QuestionHome@Com