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English
$
USD
I will edit your book with developmental editing for fiction and nonfiction
Gig Summary
It takes a village to raise a story
With an MFA in Creative Writing and 20 years of experience, I help writers refine ideas, craft compelling stories, and navigate the publishing world. Whether you need manuscript critiques, personalize...
Level 2
Has met high performance criteria and has a proven track record for meeting client expectations.
Highly Responsive
Known for exceptionally quick replies
About this Gig
My name is Libby and I work with writers to find the gold hidden in their books.
Having worked in developmental editing for going on two decades, I know now that every story has a heartbeat. It often just takes the right person to discover it. I'm an expert at looking into what your story wants to be, then revealing precisely how to get there.
My Approach:
- Deep story analysis that goes beyond surface fixes.
- Helping you shape characters that will never leave the reader.
- Structural re-plotting to strengthen pacing and form.
- Targeted sentence-level editorial commentary that refines language, rhythm, and clarity.
- Clear editorial roadmaps with prioritized next steps.
- Honest feedback that respects your vision.
Why Authors Choose Me:
- 20 years experience transforming manuscripts in all genres.
- Macro view of the story over line editing.
- A track record of helping writers become published authors.
- Clear description of what to change and why.
- Skill-building strategy for your future projects.
Perfect If You're:
- Wrestling with a draft still finding its shape.
- Seeking some honest advice from someone who gets storytelling.
- Ready for guidance that shows the way forward.
Let's get starte
Delivery style preference
Please inform the freelancer of any preferences or concerns regarding the use of AI tools in the completion and/or delivery of your order.
My Portfolio
FAQ
Why hire a human editor instead of using AI?
AI can be useful for brainstorming and catching some basic errors, but it still struggles with nuance, voice, pacing, consistency, and context. A human editor understands what you're trying to accomplish and provides feedback tailored to your unique manuscript. AI just isn’t fully there yet.
How brutal will your feedback be?
Honest but never harsh. I tell you what needs fixing without crushing your creative spirit. Think supportive mentor, not ruthless critic.
Do you work with first-time authors?
Yes !! Some of my favorite success stories started as debut novels. If you've got a draft and a drive to improve it, we're good to go.
What if my genre is weird or niche?
After 20 years, I've scene everything from monster erotica to literary sci-fi. Good storytelling principles work across all genres.
How long does the editing process take?
Typically 2-3 weeks for most manuscripts, depending on length and complexity. I'll give you an exact timeline once I see your work.
Will you rewrite my book for me?
Nope. I give you the roadmap and the tools, but you stay the driver. Your voice, your story, just...better.
How do you deliver edits?
I typically provide edits using Microsoft Word's Track Changes feature, which allows you to review every suggestion individually. If you would like to use a different format, please contact me before ordering. I am happy to discuss alternative options when possible.
Are you fluent in English?
Yes. English is my native language, and it is the only language I speak professionally. I was born and educated in the United States and hold an MFA in Creative Writing. My academic training and editing experience allow me to provide clear, accurate, and professional feedback on your work.
Reviews
12 reviews for this Gig
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Rating Breakdown
- Seller communication level
- Quality of delivery
- Value of delivery
Sort By
Most relevant
C creiserphd
United States
Libby's assignment was Developmental Editing of a 60k-word novel in rough draft form. I received two files from Libby, several days before the deadline. A markup of the manuscript included very specific, very thorough, with tracked edits and many marginal comments, all very specific. A “reflection letter”...
$400-$600
Price
13 days
Duration
Helpful?N naomi1960
Repeat Client
United States
Libby James really guided us through the editing process in an orderly, understandable manner. Excellent editor to work with on my novella! I appreciated how spot-on her comments were, ringing true in a critique that varied from the smaller word to the larger context. I recommend her for any writer,...
$100-$200
Price
12 days
Duration
R 
Seller's Response
Helpful?S 
shawntabai
Repeat Client
United States
I wish the first beta reader I'd had for my novel was as thoughtful, kind, and insightful with their feedback as Libby was. 😅 Libby's advice was specific, constructive, and right on the nose, and her earnest and unpresuming style made the critique of my baby much less scary.
$50-$100
Price
5 days
Duration
Helpful?S stevenmorris260
Repeat Client
United States
Love working with LJ. This is the second book I asked for her to help with structural editing. She gives fantastic insight that orients me and helps me figure out my next steps. This second book she helped me with worked even better from my perspective, since we both understood better what to expect from one another.
$200-$400
Price
3 weeks
Duration
Helpful?E 
emmeha
United States
Hi! It was such a delight to work with Libby. She was quick to respond and quick to deliver developmental and line feedback for the beginning of my novel. I found her very supportive, insightful, and knowledgable about the craft and business of writing. I'll certainly be returning for more of her help in the future and recommend you utilize her talents!
$50-$100
Price
3 days
Duration
Helpful?
Reviews
12 reviews for this Gig
| (12) | ||
| (0) | ||
| (0) | ||
| (0) | ||
| (0) |
Rating Breakdown
- Seller communication level
- Quality of delivery
- Value of delivery
Sort By
Most relevant
C creiserphd
United States
Libby's assignment was Developmental Editing of a 60k-word novel in rough draft form. I received two files from Libby, several days before the deadline. A markup of the manuscript included very specific, very thorough, with tracked edits and many marginal comments, all very specific. A “reflection letter”...
$400-$600
Price
13 days
Duration
Helpful?N naomi1960
Repeat Client
United States
Libby James really guided us through the editing process in an orderly, understandable manner. Excellent editor to work with on my novella! I appreciated how spot-on her comments were, ringing true in a critique that varied from the smaller word to the larger context. I recommend her for any writer,...
$100-$200
Price
12 days
Duration
R Seller's Response
Helpful?S shawntabai
Repeat Client
United States
I wish the first beta reader I'd had for my novel was as thoughtful, kind, and insightful with their feedback as Libby was. 😅 Libby's advice was specific, constructive, and right on the nose, and her earnest and unpresuming style made the critique of my baby much less scary.
$50-$100
Price
5 days
Duration
Helpful?S stevenmorris260
Repeat Client
United States
Love working with LJ. This is the second book I asked for her to help with structural editing. She gives fantastic insight that orients me and helps me figure out my next steps. This second book she helped me with worked even better from my perspective, since we both understood better what to expect from one another.
$200-$400
Price
3 weeks
Duration
Helpful?E emmeha
United States
Hi! It was such a delight to work with Libby. She was quick to respond and quick to deliver developmental and line feedback for the beginning of my novel. I found her very supportive, insightful, and knowledgable about the craft and business of writing. I'll certainly be returning for more of her help in the future and recommend you utilize her talents!
$50-$100
Price
3 days
Duration
Helpful?
