Book Editing:
Affordable Manuscript Services Since 1995

High editing fees don’t always mean the best. Michael Garrett—Stephen King’s first editor and a globally respected book editor—offers professional affordable editing services. With decades of experience, he brings the insight and precision your manuscript deserves. When it comes to choosing the best editor, experience makes all the difference.

Types of Book Editing Services

When it comes to editing, there are two types of services: those backed by extensive experience—and those who aren’t.

An editor with over 30 years of experience brings a depth of knowledge, insight, and professional judgment that simply can’t be matched by newcomers, and yes, an editor with such extensive experience can be affordable. Many less experienced editors appear highly visible online thanks to paid ads, sleek websites, and polished sample edits designed to impress, and their fees can actually be higher.

Choose an Experienced
Book Editor

Editing expert Michael Garrett, a seasoned manuscript editor with over 2,000 book manuscripts edited, has delivered affordable high-quality edits since 1995 without the high-end price tag.

Prepare Your Manuscript For Book Editing

Before hiring a manuscript editor, take steps to refine your manuscript to make the editorial process more effective and affordable:

Use Editing Software for Basic Errors:

• Grammarly: Helps with grammar, punctuation, and readability
• ProWritingAid: Enhances style and structure while detecting inconsistencies
• Hemingway Editor: Highlights overly complex sentences for better clarity

Note: Automated tools are helpful but cannot replace a professional editor, who addresses deeper issues like pacing, character development, and plot consistency that software cannot evaluate.

• Gather Feedback from Beta Readers:

Beta readers or critique groups can provide valuable feedback. However, be cautious— most beta readers lack professional expertise, leading to misguided advice.

Find Affordable Book Editing Services
Without Sacrificing Quality

Search for Genre-Specific Book Editors

A professional editor experienced in your genre understands reader expectations and publishing standards. Always review their portfolio, testimonials, and past work before hiring.

Consider Freelance Book Editors

The best freelance book editors, also referred to as book doctors, often offer competitive rates without compromising quality. Look beyond mainstream platforms like Reedsy and Fiverr to find independent professionals with proven experience.

Look Past the First Page of Search Results

Search engines prioritize paid placements, not necessarily the best editors. Reading "Don't Trust Online Searches!" can help you make an informed decision.

Beware of Sample Edits

While sample edits may seem deceptively useful, they fail to showcase the depth of an editor’s overall ability to improve deeper manuscript issues like plot structure and character development.

Fact: Sample edits are worth what they cost—nothing.

Ask for Recommendations

Join writing communities on Facebook (e.g., The Write Life Community), Reddit (r/writing), or critique groups to get trusted referrals for editorial services.

Don't Be Fooled By Overly Flattering Praise

Some editors will say anything to secure your business. A truly professional editor will provide honest, constructive feedback and won’t make unrealistic promises or flatter your ego.

Ignore "Best Editors" Lists

“Best Editors” or “Top 10 Editors” lists are misleading and based on paid placements rather than merit. For the truth about these rankings, read "Best Book Editors? Says Who?"

Compare Editing Rates

Professional editorial fees are typically charged per word, page, or hour. Affordable book editing rates range between $0.01 (100,000 word manuscript equals $1,000) and $0.06 per word (100,000 word manuscript equals $6,000).

Example: A 100,000-word manuscript would cost $2,500

Where else could you get such strong experience at such affordable cost?

Warning: If an editorial rate seems too low, it may indicate inexperience or hidden costs. Always request a clear, upfront quote and avoid open-ended hourly agreements.

For more insight, read "The World's Worst Book Editors!"

Evaluating an Editor’s Credentials and Experience

The best editors have worked with major publishers and understand what it takes to be published successfully. An inexperienced editor can do more harm than good, potentially damaging your writing career.

Why Published Authors Make Better Editors

Editors who have successfully self-published have unique insights into the editorial process. They know what works—and what doesn’t—in today’s competitive publishing market.