Line Editing

The Process...

◈ Sentence Structure & Flow

Analysis of sentence variety to identify repetitive patterns and monotonous rhythm
Suggestions for syntax improvements that enhance clarity and impact
Identification and correction of fragments and run-ons
Review of transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and sections for smoothness
Optimization of paragraph flow to ensure logical progression of ideas
Enhancement of reading rhythm to create natural cadence and momentum

◈ Word Choice & Precision

Assessment of vocabulary to identify weak or imprecise language
Elimination of redundancy by removing repetition and filler words
Identification of clichés, with fresh alternatives suggested
Enhancement of specificity through vivid, concrete language
Review of tone consistency to maintain appropriate register throughout
Optimization of power words to strengthen impact at key moments

◈ Style & Voice Refinement

Analysis of voice consistency to maintain an authentic narrative presence
Review for adherence to style guides, genre conventions, and market expectations
Evaluation of register to ensure appropriate formality for content and audience
Strengthening of distinctive voice to enhance the author’s unique fingerprint
Enhancement of mood and atmosphere through deliberate word choice and rhythm
Distinction of character voices in dialogue and internal monologue

◈ Clarity & Readability

Identification of ambiguous phrasing, with suggestions for clarification
Simplification of complex sentences while preserving sophistication
Review of jargon and technical language to ensure accessibility
Clarification of pronoun references to eliminate confusion
Correction of misplaced modifiers to prevent awkwardness and misreads
Optimization of information hierarchy to highlight essential details

◈ Dialogue Polish

Analysis of natural speech patterns to ensure authentic conversational flow
Evaluation of dialogue tag effectiveness for clarity and subtlety
Strengthening of subtext to reveal meaning beneath the surface
Consistency of character voice to maintain distinct speech patterns
Inclusion of realistic interruptions and overlaps for dynamic conversations
Verification of dialogue punctuation according to industry standards

◈ Prose Rhythm & Cadence

Variation of sentence length to establish an engaging reading rhythm
Optimization of paragraph structure for balanced pacing and readability
Use of repetition for emphasis, including strategic echoes and refrains
Enhancement of sound patterns such as alliteration, where appropriate
Modulation of pace through syntax and punctuation choices
Assessment of breathing room to ensure reader comfort and clarity

◈ Technical Consistency

Maintenance of consistent tense throughout the narrative
Stability of point of view reflected in language and perspective
Verification of internal logic, including factual and timeline accuracy
Standardization of formatting for dialogue, italics, and special text
Continuity checks for character descriptions and world-building details

Service Includes...

◈ Editorial Report

Comprehensive editorial report (3-5 pages) highlighting prose strengths and areas for improvement
Style consistency assessment with recommendations for voice refinement
Readability analysis targeting your intended audience and genre expectations
Priority revision guide focusing on high-impact line-level changes

◈ Editorial Deliverables

Track changes throughout the manuscript with detailed explanations
Style sheet documenting all editorial decisions and consistency choices
Customized resource sheet targeting identified writing challenges

◈ Revision Plan Review

One round of reviewing and feedback on your revised manuscript within two months of the edit

◈ Additional Services

Professional blurb and synopsis editing to enhance marketability
Email support for clarification questions during the revision process
Post-delivery follow-up support for questions during revision implementation within two months of the edit

Still unsure about line editing?

Line editing is best for manuscripts that have a solid structure, well-developed characters, and clear plot progression but need refinement at the sentence and paragraph level for improved flow, clarity, and style.

This editing stage is ideal for authors who have completed multiple drafts and addressed any major structural issues, focusing instead on enhancing prose quality, tightening dialogue, eliminating redundancy, and ensuring consistent tone throughout.

Line editing proves particularly valuable for literary fiction where elegant prose and distinctive voice are paramount, as well as for any manuscript where the author wants to elevate their writing style and create more engaging, polished sentences.

Line editing is perfect for writers who have mastered story fundamentals but struggle with wordiness, awkward phrasing, or inconsistent narrative voice, and for those preparing their manuscript for submission to agents or publishers who demand publication-ready prose quality.

I've written an in-depth blog post about line editing that you can read here.

Book Your Line Edit

Please fill out the following form with details about your project and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. To determine if I am the right editor for you, a complimentary editing sample will be provided once we discuss your project. Your work will never be shared with anyone. If you have any questions before submitting a form, see if my FAQ or blog can help you out!