Writing & Editing Services

For many people, editing is the hardest part of the writing process. It can be tedious, time-consuming, frustrating, and even confusing at times. Luckily, you don't have to do this alone. I'm one of the weirdos who actually enjoys editing. Whether you're polishing a manuscript for querying or looking to prepare a book for self-publishing, I'm here to help. I have years of experience as an author, editor, and educator. Since I know what this process looks like from every angle, I'm uniquely positioned to guide you through it with more understanding and kindness than others.

Credentials

• Bachelor of Arts degree in Modern Languages from The University of Texas at San Antonio.
• Sixteen credit hours toward a Juris Doctorate at The University of Denver Sturm College of Law, including a legal research and writing course with a heavy emphasis on editing and citation.
• Eight years of experience as an English teacher.
• One and a half years of experience as an award-winning editor for a small press. I edited thrillers, contemporary YA, and paranormal.
• Eights years as a published author. I revised and edited my own novels, queries, and synopses. 
• My debut novel was an Amazon bestseller in the Young Adult Space Opera category, and it has a 4.3 rating with nearly 100 reviews. 
• Dozens of author panels, guest speaking events, workshops, and book signings.
• Two years of experience in self-publishing.
• Over a decade of marketing experience ranging from the military to Reddit.

Testimonials

"I caught myself nodding along... I especially like your analysis of character motivations and questions. I haven't had an editor do that, and it's very helpful!" - Allison Maruska, author of Dreams of Justice: A Paranormal Mystery

Services

I will work with virtually any type of writing: manuscripts, essays, blog posts, articles, queries, synopses, social media posts, advertisements, etc. I am also open to any genre of fiction or nonfiction writing, but my favorites are sci-fi, fantasy, young adult, and romance. My preferred method of providing feedback is via Google Docs, but I have Microsoft Word as well. I can also include emails, phone calls, or video conferences if desired. Half of your payment will be made up-front, with the remainder paid at the project's completion; I accept PayPal, Venmo, CashApp, or Zelle. Free samples are available on request. 

Please email me at author@libbiduncan.com to get your project on my calendar or ask any questions. Thank you!

• Coaching: I will work with you to develop, refine, or complete your work in progress; I can also help you navigate the writing and publishing process in general. This can be via e-mail, phone call(s), or video conference(s).
• Cost: $40 per hour
• Turnaround: variable
• Tutoring: I will help you develop, refine, or complete homework or essays. I will not do the writing for you, but I will look at the directions and rubric, if applicable, to help you submit your best work. I can also review spelling, grammar, or analysis skills to help strengthen your overall understanding of writing and/or reading. (Available for grades 7-12 or college students.)
• Cost: $25 per hour
• Turnaround: variable
• Edit Letter: I will read your full project and write a detailed email diagnosing what, if anything, needs to change. I will analyze the plot, characters, world, themes, etc. and provide both positive and constructive feedback.
• Cost: $300
• Turnaround: One to two weeks (depending on the project)
• Query Critique: I will analyze, correct, and polish your query letter to agents and/or publishers. 
• Cost: $40
• Turnaround: 48 hours
• Synopsis critique: I will analyze, correct, and polish your novel synopsis.
• Cost: $40
• Turnaround: 48 hours
• Book Doctoring: I will provide an edit letter that outlines the big-picture issues, and then I will rewrite/revise the manuscript for you. This includes both developmental, line, and copy editing (but not proofreading).
• Cost:$0.06/word
• Turnaround: One to two months (depending on the project)
• Line Editing: I will correct the language, style, and flow of the writing at the sentence level.
• Cost: $0.03/word
• Turnaround: One month (depending on the project)
• Copy Editing: I will correct spelling, grammar, word usage, and punctuation.
• Cost: $0.02/word
• Turnaround: One month (depending on the project)
• Proofreading: I will check the text for errors and typos.
• Cost: $0.015/word 
• Turnaround: Two or three weeks (depending on the project)

Definitions and rates for services were primarily based on information provided by The Editorial Freelancers Association.