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Thursday, March 17, 2011

You've Got the Manuscript...


...And you don't know how to take it to that next level.

You're swamped with options for freelance editors, classes and the "next best thing" to happen to you and your writing. Every time you turn around you see MORE information!

You need to know what is the best option for YOU and your writing.

I have a list of freelance editors I have used (and many more I haven't) and classes you can take to further your writing. But first a short list of tips...

**I have not used all of these editors or taken all of these classes. Most of this information you will have to decide for yourself. Which is the proper protocol anyway, considering that each of us have different talents and abilities that are better combined with different editors.**

One: If you go with a freelance editor that has been published, read their work. Do you like it? Is it along the same lines as what you are writing? You're going to want to find someone who not only is GOOD at what they do (and you often won't know until you try), but also there is no point asking a speculative author to edit your womens' fiction.

Two: Don't jump at the first chance. Chat with the editor, even ask if they would be willing to read one to two pages before you commit. Most freelance editors are fairly inexpensive, but don't spend money until you're sure. Read their recommendations. Talk to others who have worked with that person. It'll be time worth spent.

Three: Be willing to take instruction. Don't go into such a working relationship with the idea that your work is perfect and you are expecting a pat on the back. Look at the editor is saying. Does it make sense? Do you see the validity in what he/she is saying? Then make the changes. DO be aware of completely changing your work until it doesn't sound like you. If you see this happening, the editor is probably not for you.

Christian Freelance Editors:

Tiffany Colter (freelance editor)

Gina Holmes (published author/ freelance editor)

Kaye Dacus (published author/ freelance editor)

Christina Berry (published author/ freelance editor)

Mary DeMuth (published author/ freelance editor)

Rachel Hauck (published author/ freelance editor)

Susan May Warren (published author / freelance editor)

Tracy Ruckman (freelance editor)

Camy Tang (published author / freelance editor)

WIES Editing Service

Meredith Efken (published author / freelance editor)

Writer's Online Classes


Margie Lawson (HIGHLY recommended! I can't TELL you how wonderful she has been for my writing)

ACFW member's only monthly classes

WIES Workshops (taught by different Christian authors in different months)

Christian Industry Help Sites

Literay Agent Rachelle Gardner  (blog)

Literay Agent Chip MacGregor (blog- no longer active, but archive posts are up for review)

Literary Agent Steve Laube (blog)

Author Jody Hedlund (blog)

Seekerville (blog)

Author Camy Tang (blog)

Author Mary DeMuth (blog)

My Book Therapy Blog

What sites or editors do you have to share that have been helpful?

**In honor of our chat about editing and making our work STRONGER, leave a comment for a chance to win a 5 page critique.**
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15 comments:

  1. Sherrinda KetchersidMarch 17, 2011 at 8:05 AM

    Excellent post, Casey, with so many helpful links. I can't think of anything to add! I do think Camy Tang's online classes are a must. She has one on writing a synopsis that is fabulous. It finally clicked for me when I took her class and she really helped me define the major points and motivations behind it.

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  2. Susan Anne MasonMarch 17, 2011 at 8:26 AM

    Thanks for this informative post! Such great resources all in one spot!

    For me, the Seekerville blog has been a life-line! Awesome group of talented writers who share their knowledge and tips.

    I will check out the other links! Thanks again.

    Cheers,

    Sue
    sbmason at sympatico dot ca

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  3. CaseyMarch 17, 2011 at 8:39 AM

    SHERRINDA, I know there is more out there! :) I need to check into Camy's worksheet, but just haven't yet... :)

    SUSAN, I know, haven't they?? A better group of ladies I don't think I've met, aside from our group... ;-) Thanks for coming by today! You're entered for that critique. :)

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  4. KavMarch 17, 2011 at 8:41 AM

    I'm still new at this and haven't ventured very far from the actually writing part of the journey yet. Seekerville has been a wonderful way to venture into the unknown and I have learned lots there. Haven't really progressed farther then that though. I've toyed with the idea of online courses, but was a bit (okay a whole lot) overwhelmed by what to choose and how to choose and who to choose. I'll definitely check over your links when I have more time this evening. Thanks.

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  5. CaseyMarch 17, 2011 at 9:03 AM

    KAV, I know exactly where you are coming from and YES it is very overwhelmning, which is why you have to take the time to look over the many options and do a bit of studying for what is going to work the best for you. If you want to chat privately you are welcome to email me. :)

    caseymh18(@)Gmail.com

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  6. PepperMarch 17, 2011 at 10:28 AM

    GREAT post, Case. And wonderful links. I'd add that the Christian Writers Guild is pretty good too. I took their Journeyman Course and really enjoyed the mentoring - but it's mighty expensive too.
    Which is true for most intensive courses.
    Camy's rates are very reasonable and she give THOROUGH feedback!!

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  7. PepperMarch 17, 2011 at 10:29 AM

    Oh - and Margie's courses are awesome!
    Definitely.
    Also courses on plotting by Michael Hague are fabulous!!

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  8. CaseyMarch 17, 2011 at 10:38 AM

    PEPPER, I forgot about Jenkin's organization. I looked at that last year and just couldn't afford it, but you're "write" it's true of a lot of workshops. LOVE Margie Lawson! I'm definitely going back for more! :D

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  9. Julia M. ReffnerMarch 17, 2011 at 10:54 AM

    Great informative post. I definitely want to take one of Margie's classes over the summer! Janice Hanna Thompson also offers online writing classes.

    Christian Communicators is a neat publication produced by I believe Jerry Jenkin's organization. I let my subscription run out but plan to renew later.

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  10. Terrie ToddMarch 17, 2011 at 11:19 AM

    Last time I went through my manuscript, I found things jumping off the page at me to fix, simply because I had completed a Christian Writer's Guild course and attended a class at their conference since the last time I looked at it. Didn't realize how much I learned! I expect to keep going through this cycle until my book is sold or until the Lord calls me home. ;)

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  11. CaseyMarch 17, 2011 at 11:54 AM

    JULIA, yes, Janice does teach! I have meant to attend one of her webinars, but haven't been able to work out the time. I haven't heard about that magazine, sounds interesting!

    TERRIE, taking workshops and attending conferences/ listening to the recordings is great and I tell you I am the exact same way while taking this class from Margie Lawson. :)

    Thanks for coming by today!

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  12. Beth K. VogtMarch 17, 2011 at 12:17 PM

    I've attended Susan May Warren's series of writing conferences for fiction writers--and they are so, so good!! As a non-fiction writing moving to the "Dark Side," i.e. starting to write fiction, her conferences helped me lay a strong foundation as a novelist!

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  13. CaseyMarch 17, 2011 at 12:37 PM

    BETH, I attended Susie's conference in Portland OR a year ago and it was really good. It was like my workbooks she wrote came to life. :) Thanks for sharing today!! Always good to see you. :)

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  14. Mary Vee StorytellerMarch 17, 2011 at 4:50 PM

    Thanks Caseey for compiling this great list!
    You've helped many people:)

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  15. CaseyMarch 18, 2011 at 8:21 AM

    Glad it was helpful Mary! :)

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