Whether you're publishing your first book or your 100th book, we all need someone to offer a true, honest, and thorough critique of our work. After all, it should be the best it can be not only when it comes to the mechanics (spelling, grammar, punctuation), but the content should also intrigue readers. Select from our manuscript services below.
Book Critiques and Evaluations
Manuscript Evaluation: $500 (maximum of 80,000 words)
If you're looking to self-publish your book and need someone to read it to let you know the honest truth about it—strengths, areas for improvement, characterization, plot holes, and pacing, then the Manuscript Evaluation may be what you're looking for as a self-published author. The Manuscript Evaluation includes three to four pages of honest feedback from not just an editor, but also as a reader. This service comes with a 500-word sample edit that includes coaching methods to apply during your revision. We will also recommend and explain the level of editing your work could benefit from, and provide a price quote for editing.
Manuscript Diagnostic Review: $300, no length limit
The Manuscript Review is a shorter version of the Manuscript Evaluation. The Manuscript Review is good for self-published authors to get shorter, one-page feedback of their material, usually after the editor has read a chapter or two of your book. Included in this is also a 500-word sample edit which includes coaching methods to apply during your revision process. Don't know what kind of edit you need? The Manuscript Review will tell you what level of editing will best suit your work as well as a price quote for editing.
Manuscript Editing
Please note all editing services include two rounds in the price and have a $100 minimum.
Copy Editing: averages $0.01–$0.02/word (two rounds)
A basic edit—or copy edit—focuses mostly on correcting incorrect grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax. It checks for inconsistency within the writing, calling it to the writer's attention if it's an in-depth issue.
Line Editing: averages $0.03–$0.04/word (two rounds)
A line edit is a more in-depth edit, which will address the issues looked at in the basic edit, but also adds a level of freedom for the editor to reword awkward phrases, break paragraphs where/if necessary, and also make sure transitions flow easily from paragraph to paragraph, as well as chapter to chapter. This is usually the recommended level of editing if you do not want intensive content revision.
Developmental Editing: averages $0.05–$0.06/word (two rounds)
A developmental edit typically consists of at least two rounds of editing, where the first round is mainly concerned with developing the content. The editor will point out where the story is lacking, where the writer needs to elaborate, and also identify any plot holes or major inconsistencies. The second round, after the writer has made all necessary changes, is a line edit.
Typesetting
Book typesetting: Starts at $50/hour
We use InDesign to custom typeset your book, doing our best to accommodate any preferences for book size, font size, and font types. We will work to make your document look professional and match your style. All books are formatted to adhere to the Chicago Manual of Style publishing guidelines and will include a contents page and copyright page. Please note any submitted corrections will be billed with the final hourly total.
Cover Design
Book cover design: Starts at $300
Cover design includes a complimentary introductory call with designer to communicate any cover ideas or design elements requested. Book cover designs are made for paperback, e-book, and hardcover. Our designer always tries to use free stock images whenever possible, but if any desired images require a purchase, that cost will be added to the final total.
Additional Graphics
Social media graphics: $150 minimum
If you desire additional design work, such as web banners, Facebook/Instagram graphics, or logos, our designer can create graphics to use with your social media marketing efforts.
Contact Rabbit & Leo for manuscript services
Our manuscript reviews, evaluations, and edits allow authors to take advantage of a personalized partnerships. Working with authors is our passion and look to give every manuscript its chance to succeed.