RED LEAF WORD SERVICES
Editing and proofreading for authors of plant-themed fiction and nonfiction.
Editing for authors of speculative fiction with complex worlds and large casts.
Evaluation Packages
Manuscript Evaluation:
A Manuscript Evaluation provides valuable initial feedback along the lines of a developmental edit. It gives you the opportunity to resolve large issues during draft revisions, potentially saving you some editing costs later on.
It is most helpful when it follows a round or two of beta reads and revisions.
The focus is on the 3 P's - person(s), plot, pacing. Other foundational story elements are also addressed. I include in-depth first page and first chapter reviews because of the important jobs they do in presenting the story to readers.
Grammar issues, punctuation, spelling, word overuse, and word choice are not a PRIORITY at this stage but they may be discussed in the summary.
You come away with clear paths to pursue outlined in a detailed evaluation document. And The Narrative Gardener is available to cultivate ideas with at any point!
The typical price range for an 80,000 word manuscript is $650-700 with a 3-4 week turnaround target.
Ask about a Manuscript Evaluation today!
“By highlighting the positives as well as the areas in need of further work, she gave me the confidence to keep moving forward.”
- Drew Halfpenny
Beta Reading:
This reading service provides writers with feedback at any stage of creation. I'm happy to review works as entire manuscripts, or in smaller sections.
You will receive a 3-6 page summary letter, and I am happy to address any specific questions you want answered. Questionnaires are a fabulous way to focus in on what works and what falls short at this very early stage.
Price range is $250-325 for an 80,000 word manuscript.
Please contact me for a quote tailored to the stage of your work!
“She also identified spelling issues and areas that didn’t flow well or seemed disjointed, highlighting them in a constructive and informative manner in addition to general feedback on the rest of the story.”
-Tim Seabrook
First 100 Pages Evaluation:
With this service, I do a comprehensive edit of the first 100 pages of your manuscript. Depending on what stage the work is in, this could be a developmental/line edit combo, or a line/copyedit combination.
For example, if the story line is pretty solid but the main character's POV needs to deepen in some key scenes, it would be more of a line edit. The idea is to identify potential issues and areas of improvement that you can work with as you continue to write or edit.
It can also be a great way to try out a type of editing you haven't had done yet.
Haven't had a line edit done and not sure it's worth it? Have the first hundred pages examined to see what suggestions arise or how the work could be taken to the next level. Then you can work on improving your craft as you move ahead!
Of course, plot holes may be difficult to detect with a limited sample, and highlighted issues may actually be resolved after page 100. But this review can give you an idea if the framework of your story is solid enough, if you are headed for a "muddy middle," or if the characters capture the reader's empathy enough to make them read on.
This choice is offered at a flat fee of $500 and includes an in-depth editorial letter. Discussion time can be added on as well. If you return later and contract for another service, I will factor in a 20% discount on the second service.
Ask The Narrative Gardener to pull you out of the mud!
First Three Chapters Evaluation
For authors who want a bit more assurance that they are on the right path beyond the first chapter, a First Three Chapters Evaluation fits the bill.
Characters, setting, and the main conflict all appear at the beginning of a story, but perhaps not enough in the first chapter to evaluate. The extra two chapters can provide the additional details or highlight shortfalls.
Author and character voices and tone also become apparent, and what better point to make adjustments, if necessary?
This evaluation package includes both the First Page and First Chapter Evaluations as separate documents and is offered at $225.
A First Three Chapters Evaluation gives authors a checklist to be aware of for self-editing. A real timesaver!
Ask The Narrative Gardener about your First Three Chapters!
First Chapter Evaluation
After the first page, the first chapter must continue to generate curiosity while delivering important details in a timely manner.
It begins to reel in the reader's attention after the opening line's hook is set. Like its critical opening page, the first chapter often receives more effort and attention than most.
Beyond those of the first page, there are more elements that a strong first chapter should contain, all of which are discussed in this review. You will come away with a solid idea of how effectively your first chapter captures reader attention and where improvements can be made.
Because the opening page is an integral part of this chapter, a First Page Evaluation is included.
First Chapter Evaluations are offered at $150 and can be added onto any other editing service. It's ideal for when you've been over the words so many times they start to read themselves.
Inquire about a First Chapter Evaluation today!
First Page Evaluation
A novel's opening page has a monumental task: to hook the reader thoroughly enough to make them want to read more.
An enticing first page can make or break a sale or download. For this reason alone, many authors spend far more time on this page than any other.
The opening line is perhaps the largest piece of this page. How many first lines of novels can you recall or recognize? A few, I bet. Especially those that set tone and character immediately.
This petite evaluation is not light on deliverables, though, despite its brief scope. It discusses the crucial elements of successful first pages and suggests ways to incorporate those that may be missing.
Offered at $85, the First Page Evaluation is perfect for any author, especially those planning to query. Strong starts make lasting impressions!
Want your novel's opening line to be BookTok worthy? Let The Narrative Gardener dig into your first page!
