Text Editing & Ghostwriting Services
Manuscript editing is at the core of Christian book publishing. Your message is the most important aspect of your book. Because of this, you want your book to be edited accurately, sensitively, and thoroughly. That’s what TBE does—no more, no less. We won’t mess with your baby—but we will put a smile on its face.
TBE also provides ghostwriting. Did you know some of the best-known Christian books have been ghostwritten? We don’t like to say too much publicly, because that would defeat the purpose of the ghostwriting process. We can tell you that your ghostwritten text will maintain your voice and style.
What are the top reasons why authors want to get their books into print?
- To share a truth, revelation, or story, which edifies, strengthens, and encourages others
- To multiply their message beyond their boundaries and beyond their lifetime
- To define their leadership in a particular field
What’s your reason?
EDITING—DESCRIPTION & PRICING
Our manuscript diagnostic evaluates the condition of your text to determine its strengths and weaknesses. It includes a written report on what type of editing is needed, what ideas are in need of further development, what material may need to be trimmed, and whether your text speaks to your target audience or needs re-positioning. In the case of non-fiction, it can address any theological issues. In the case of fiction it can identify any plot, character, or dialogue issues. The diagnostic fee is $50 or 50¢ per page, whichever is greater.
Our non-fiction level 1 edit corrects punctuation, spelling, capitalization, word usage, sentence structure, and grammar. Unless previously edited professionally, most manuscripts will need some editing. Our level 1 edit assures that readers will not encounter any unnecessary grammatical speed bumps. We follow The Christian Writer’s Manual of Style published by Zondervan but can make exceptions at the author’s request. The level 1 edit is $5 per page (a page is defined as 300 words). Please don’t assume that a former teacher or family member has the skill to professionally edit your material. In book publishing, the rules are different and more stringent.
Our non-fiction level 2 edit improves the consistency, flow, and style of your writing. It may include changing the order of sentences, paragraphs, and chapters; removing repetitive material; or adding scriptural support. Non-fiction level 2 also includes level 1 editing and is priced at $10 per page (a page is 300 words). Note: with any of our editing levels, you will receive a clean, edited file—not a marked up text, and will always have final approval.
Our fiction level 1 edit corrects punctuation, spelling, capitalization, word usage, sentence structure, and grammar. Unless previously edited professionally, most manuscripts will need some editing. Our level 1 edit assures that readers will not encounter any unnecessary grammatical speed bumps. We follow The Christian Writer’s Manual of Style published by Zondervan but can make exceptions at the author’s request. The level 1 edit is $5 per page (a page is defined as 300 words). Please don’t assume that a former teacher or family member has the skill to professionally edit your material. In book publishing, the rules are different and more stringent.
Our fiction level 2 edit improves the consistency, flow, and style of your writing. It includes checking for consistency of characters, setting, and dialog. It may also flag plot issues. Fiction level 2 also includes level 1 editing and is priced at $10 per page (a page is 300 words). Note: with any of our editing levels, you will receive a clean, edited file—not a marked up text, and will always have final approval.
TBE can ghostwrite your text from supplied recordings, transcriptions, your notes, your partial manuscript, and/or phone interviews with you. Why do authors turn to the services of a ghostwriter? They may not have the time or necessary skill to complete a publishable manuscript. Whatever your reason, you can be sure that your text will be written in your voice and in your style. It will accurately expand and elaborate on your God-given message. Above all, we will never divulge that you are a ghostwriting client, without your written permission. Ghostwriting fees vary greatly depending on how much you have already written (or recorded) and how long you intend for your finished book to be. We’ll quote an exact, no-obligation, fee after reviewing your project details but you can expect to pay in the $5000 to $10,000 range for an average-length book. If you’re not sure if ghostwriting is right for you, call us to discuss your project.
Our typesetting (pagination) takes your edited text and formats it for the printed page. Typesetting is an art and much more than simply pouring your text into a template. It addresses such issues as fonts, line spacing, hyphenation, justification, widows and orphans (not the human kind), and more. It can also involve placement of images, graphs, callouts, and decorative elements—all designed to make the reader’s experience more enjoyable. Typesetting fees range fron $3 to $6 per typeset page depending on page size and complexity.
Our proofreading is designed to catch typos. It’s not a substitute for basic editing. Don’t rely on your spell checker alone. You need a human set of eyes to comb through your text before it goes to print. Proofreading is $2 perpage (a pages is defined as 300 words). Remember that excessive typos will kill your Amazon reviews!
Why Choose TBE?
- You always have final approval over your text.
- You get 99.99% typo-free text with all editing levels.
- A 50% deposit gets your editing project started.
- You get a four week turnaround on all editing except ghostwriting.
What Authors Say…
Attached is my full review of the proof and response to all your questions. I am blessed to have such a professional publisher and editor. I am impressed with your editing and writing ability and am appreciative. It makes my book so much better.
James Moore, author of THE LIGHT SWITCH