Frequently Asked Questions

For manuscripts: Based on the total word count, 5-page excerpt, turn time, and the service requested, we will generate a good faith quote for service.

For other projects (non-manuscripts): The editorial fee minimum is $250. The quote will start at the minimum and increase based on content complexity and how quickly you need your job completed.

Upon receipt of the document, if it is significantly different or longer than the originally agreed-upon project, we reserve the right to adjust the quoted price and deadline, or if necessary, reschedule or decline the job.

Double spaced, Times New Roman or Arial 12 point font in a Word document or Google Doc file. All editing services will be completed in Track changes.

After you request a quote, send an excerpt, receive a quote, then you submit the entire manuscript here. These details are also outlined when you follow the steps to request a quote.

It depends on many factors–length, schedule availability, service requested and complexity. But both the start date (that you are to submit the work by) and delivery date (when to expect the completed work) will be included in the quote.

Generally, for non-manuscript copyediting job the average time is 1-2 weeks; and for manuscript services, the timeline can range 1-4 months or longer depending on how many edit rounds.

If your project has an aggressive timeline, please communicate that up-front and we can try to work with you.

If you cannot submit the raw file on the agreed date for any reason, I reserve the right to cancel the agreement or adjust the deadline. I will make every effort to accommodate your project, but I have several clients and stick to a tight schedule. Please communicate any schedule changes as soon as possible.

We are happy to provide a short test edit to get a glimpse of my editing style upon request.

A 50% down payment is due when you submit your job on the agreed-upon date. And upon completion, we will send you an invoice with a watermarked version of your job. The remaining balance is due when you receive the invoice. Once payment is complete we will send you the final document.

Of course! We have helped clients with essays, recommendation letters, website copy, author bios, pamphlets, one-pagers, fliers, and even letters to HR! These jobs usually have a quicker delivery time, depending on the editor’s schedule.

Availability of services is limited and schedule-based, so if you’re interested in working with Lake Lion, please don’t wait to reach out. To guarantee a specific time and date, a deposit must be made to hold your reservation. More details will be provided with the quote.

If you have submitted a partial payment to reserve your editing slot and work has not started on your project, we will provide a refund at your request. Otherwise, once work has started on your project, we do not offer refunds.

The editing agreement includes a confidentiality clause. No personal information shared in the context of this business relationship will ever be shared or sold.

There’s no guarantee that our editing services will result in an offer of representation from an agent or a contract with a publisher. Even remarkable manuscripts don’t always get a fair shake in traditional publishing, but don’t be discouraged–there’s still the self-publishing route!