There's a fine line between legitimate freelance editors and self-styled “book doctors,” and it's not always easy for writers to tell the difference until it's too late. A good editor will evaluate your manuscript or proposal and give you a thorough critique that covers everything from plot points to tone and style notes. A “book doctor” will claim to provide the same service, but usually delivers only generic commentary that could apply to any piece of writing. Both will charge significant amounts of money for their services.

Professional Editing Services

There are times when it can make sense for writers to seek out the services of a professional editor. If you are unable to find people to read and give honest feedback on your work, or if you don't trust that feedback, you might consider hiring a professional editor. If you've received several rejections, all citing more or less the same problems with your manuscript, it might be worthwhile to get help from someone experienced in your genre. The main point to consider is whether you understand what you're buying and whether what you get in return justifies the cost.

There are no licensing or regulatory organizations that oversee free-lance editors, so you'll need to do some research if you want to hire one. Perhaps the most important factor is finding an editor who has experience working in your genre. Someone who has spent his career editing technical journals might be able to offer constructive advice on your fantasy novel, but the odds aren't good. Likewise, an editor with experience in fantasy novels might not be the best choice to critique your historical fiction.

Also make sure you know what you're paying for. Will the editor give you advice on plot and character construction? Will she provide a line-by-line critique, suggesting a different word here or phrase there? Will she proof-read for errors in spelling, punctuation, syntax, and grammar? Generally, the less involved the service, the cheaper it should be.

Remember, too, that no editor can guarantee anything except his own service. There are no magic formulas for plots or characters or even style that will assure publication of your work. Even the best editor can't turn a bad manuscript into a stellar one, and no one can guarantee a bestseller. If a potential editor is making unrealistic promises in exchange for your money, run far, far away.

Kickback Schemes

Referrals to paid editing services can signal a kickback scheme between the agent and the editing service. Here's how it works: An agent reads your manuscript, then contacts you, usually via letter or e-mail, praising your work. It needs editing, the letter or e-mail will say, and then you'll be directed to a specific person or company, which will provide the necessary critique — for a fee. Almost universally, the agent strongly implies that he will accept your manuscript for representation if you use the service he recommends.

Many new writers are so elated to find someone who likes their work that they are blind to the implications of this kind of offer. In many cases, the agent either owns the service being recommended, or he receives a kickback for referring writers. And, all too often, even after you pay for the service and implement their suggestions, the referring agent will reject your manuscript; very likely, other agents will reject it, too.

Even a reputable agent may suggest that you seek out a professional freelance editor to review your manuscript. The difference is that reputable agents will not recommend a specific editor or firm. They may provide a short list of companies that do this kind of work, or they may give you pointers on where you can find a professional editor. The real red flag should rise if the agent recommends a particular person or company, especially if the agent indicates he'd be willing to represent you after you use the service he recommends.

There are good professional editors who will critique your work for a fee, which is usually fairly high — maybe $10 or more per page. However, when an agent or publisher recommends a specific editor or editing service, this should raise a warning flag for you. You're better off seeking out these services on your own.

If you come across this situation, ask questions. Is the agent affiliated with any of the recommended people or services? Does the agent or editor guarantee that your manuscript will be publishable after the critique? Is using the recommended service a condition of representation? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, thank the agent for his time and look elsewhere.