How i work with words (and with you)
Respecting your voice. Honouring your story. Shaping your prose.
At LFP Editorial Studio, every project begins with curiosity and care. I listen closely to your voice, your aims, and your creative intent, working gently but precisely to help your writing become the strongest version of itself, without ever losing what makes it yours.
Whether you're developing a novel, a memoir, or a piece of narrative nonfiction, I'll bring a clear editorial eye to your words, with thoughtful feedback and warm encouragement along the way.
This page explains how I work, what to expect at each stage, and how the process differs depending on the kind of support you're looking for.
Precision and care, from first draft to final polish
Precision and Care, From First Conversation to Final Page
1. Get in touch
Use the Contact page to tell me about your project. It helps to know your word count, your genre, your rough timeline, and the kind of support you're after — whether that's a manuscript critique, copy editing and proofreading, or a submission package review. If you're not sure which you need, just tell me where you are with your work and I'll advise.
2. Receive your quote
I'll review what you've sent and reply with a tailored quote and a proposed timeline. Once you're happy to proceed, I'll send a short booking form and an invoice for 60% of the total fee. Your place in the schedule is confirmed once the deposit is received, and we'll agree a start date.
4. Delivery and follow-up
You'll receive your completed work — an editorial report, a review, or your edited document, depending on the service — along with a short summary of what I've done and why. The remaining 40% of the fee is due within seven days of delivery. Every service includes a round of follow-up questions by email, so you can talk anything through once you've had time to absorb the feedback.
Turnaround times vary by service and length. Shorter pieces are typically returned within one to two weeks; longer or more complex projects are given a clear timeline upfront, so you always know what to expect.
For practical guidance on preparing your file, see Preparing Your Manuscript for Editing.
3. The work begins
On the agreed date, I'll begin. What happens at this stage depends on your chosen service:
For a manuscript critique, I read your full manuscript closely and prepare a detailed editorial report on structure, pacing, character, and voice — with a bespoke editorial letter and tailored revision notes where they would help.
For copy editing and proofreading, I work through your text line by line, refining clarity, rhythm, consistency, and accuracy while preserving your voice.
For a submission package review, I review your opening pages and query letter, with focused feedback to help you approach agents with confidence. Whichever service you've chosen, I'll keep you informed and deliver by the date we've agreed.
Faqs
What's the difference between a manuscript critique and copy editing?
A manuscript critique looks at the big picture — structure, pacing, character, voice — and delivers a written editorial report to guide your next revision. Copy editing works at the line level, refining the prose itself. Many writers have a critique earlier in their process and copy editing later, once the structural work is done. If you're not sure which stage you're at, get in touch and I'll help you decide.
What's the difference between proofreading and copy editing?
Proofreading is the final polish, catching spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Copy editing goes further, improving flow, consistency, and tone while always respecting your voice.
Do you edit unfinished or 'messy' drafts?
Absolutely. Your work doesn't need to be polished before it reaches me, that's what I'm here for. If you're feeling unsure or stuck, send what you have, and we'll take it from there.
Do you edit writing supported by tools like ChatGPT?
Yes. I work with every piece with the same focus on clarity, voice, and structure, however it was first drafted. Whether your words arrived by pen, keyboard, or software, I'll help them sound like you. You're under no obligation to tell me, though you're welcome to share context about your process if it would help me support the work.
What if I'm not sure what level of support I need?
That's completely normal, and you don't need to work it out alone. Just get in touch and tell me where you are with your writing; I'll recommend the service that best fits your work and your stage.
Is my work confidential?
Yes. Every project is handled with discretion and care. Your writing is yours, and it's treated that way at every stage.
