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Damien Benoit-Ledoux, Chief Editor

I specialize in action and adventure, fantasy, LGBTQ, science fiction, romance, supernatural, thriller, young adult, and new adult novels. I also work with certain non-fiction genres such as memoir and personal growth.

Document Services

Editing vs. Proofreading

Developmental editing (DE) is the most intense editing process I provide because it requires collaboration and discussion between you, the author, and me, the editor. With DE, I move beyond grammar, punctuation, and syntax and focus on the big-picture story elements such as plot, voice, characterization, setting(s), and pacing. I also check for problems such as inconsistent tone or an unclear or shifting audience target (as with a non-fiction book). I offer two kinds of developmental editing services: The Editorial Review and the comprehensive Substantive Edit.

Editing is a proactive process during which I make changes and suggestions to your manuscript with the intent of improving the overall quality of your writing—for both you and the manuscript. I pay attention to your language use, phraseology, and expression. I also pay attention to character and plot development. When I’m finished, I’ll return a track changed document that contains sharp and consistent language. In addition, the overall readability of your writing will be enhanced.

Proofreading is the process of correcting basic errors in writing, such as grammar, spelling, punctuation, and other language mistakes. Proofreading demands an attention to detail that is less intense than editing. As such, proofreading is a less expensive service that still performs a vital role for writers and authors. When I’m finished, you’ll have an error-free, publication-ready document you can be proud of.

Take a Test Drive With Me

Would you like to make sure we’ll work well together? No problem. Contact me! I recommend you send either the first chapter or the first 1000 words of your manuscript. I’ll treat it like the real deal and edit the sample so you can get a sense of the editing work I provide. Note: This isn’t a requirement to work with me.

If my returned sample is what you’re looking for, great! Let’s move forward together.
If it’s not what you’re looking for, I appreciate that you considered me and I wish you the best of luck.
Cost: $20 due prior to sample editing work start. Why do I charge a small fee? Simple: I have a tiny mouth to feed, and he eats a lot! But seriously, it’s good business practice for both the client (you) and the service provider (me).

Scheduling & Deposits, Payments, and Guides

Scheduling and Deposits

If you plan to book work within 3 months from today, I request a refundable deposit of $100 to add you to my schedule. If you delay the start-work date beyond the 3-month mark, your deposit will become nonrefundable.

If you plan to book work more than 3 months out, I request a nonrefundable deposit of $100 to hold your spot.

Regardless of scheduling, I will credit your $100 deposit against your total fee.

Payments

I request a down payment of 50 percent due the week work begins. The remaining balance must be paid before the edited manuscript is returned. I will send you an electronic invoice for all payments.

Style Guide and World Building Information

If you have a writing style guide for you or your work, please send that along with your manuscript. You can view my personal style guide to see what I’m talking about. If your world building documentation is readily available, granting me access to that information will help me check your manuscript for consistency. Your intellectual property will remain your intellectual property.

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