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Ada Akisanya, Writer/Producer/Director

"Mary's vast knowledge of screenplay writing allows her to deliver coverages that not only enhance the story but also groom the writer. She truly gets it."

Getting horrible reviews on your self-pubbed book for typos and grammar issues?

Email me for a free half hour chat about your work. We’ll figure this out! maryharriswriter@gmail.com

Martin Guigui, Writer/Producer/Director

"Mary is a consummate professional and her committment to getting it 'right' is refreshing. I look forward to continuing this magical journey with her."

My Edits

You may need only one or two of the following:

  • Developmental or Structural edit
  • Line or copyedit
  • Proofread and polish

I will assess your FICTION OR NONFICTION manuscript and outline what I think it needs. This assessment costs you nothing. 🙂

Based on my COMMENTS, I will give you a project fee at a competitive market rate. A well-written manuscript costs THE AUTHOR less than one that needs heavier editing, so I will send you my Basic Self-Editing Guide, also free!

My services include:

Duration: approximately __ hours of work for first and final edits based on original word count of __ words.

  • All edits in Word, preferably in author’s year/version, using Track Changes. I work on a Mac or a pc, consistent with author’s computer.
  • Developmental or Structural edit: examination of flow of paragraphs, chapters, storyline. Creation of a timeline, if necessary. Adjustment of paragraphs, chapters, and/or plot points to be consistent within storyline. Suggestions to enhance story, plot, character arc, if needed. Creation of expanded Track Changes notes for author’s use, if needed.
  • All research to verify dates, corporate names, phrases, foreign languages, etc., is included in the bid.
  • Creation of internal style guide: characters’ names, physical descriptions, place names, etc., to maintain and ensure consistency.  Or, adherence to publisher’s style guide when provided. Additionally, adherence to language style, grammar, and dictionary (American/British/Australian/Canadian/etc.).
  • Word coaching if needed.
  • Copy or line edits to clarify grammar, punctuation, tense, case.
  • Proofread for misspellings.
  • Final polish, proofreading, and Spellcheck before ms. is returned to author.
  • Availability during entire editing process via email, Skype, or phone.
  • Any minor tweaks or changes needed after turning in the final will be provided at no additional cost.
  • Editor is annual subscriber to Chicago Manual of Style and uses Merriam-Webster Online as the lead dictionary.
  • Author’s addition or change of 1500+ words during edits will result in a PER-WORD increase in project fee.
  • Payments through PayPal or personal check. I ask 1/2 when I begin editing, and 1/2 when you receive the final edit. I’m not happy until you’re happy!