So, I Read This Book Today . . .
Editing Fees and Guidelines
As my editing jobs have become more numerous, I have updated my Editing Fees and Guidelines. My editing and proofreading includes checking for grammar, sentence structure, misspellings, and pointing out plot inconsistencies, etc. At this time, my base charge is $0.008/word, with a minimum of $50, payable via PayPal. Editing jobs I am currently working on, received before May 1, 2014, will continue to be edited at the old rate.
If your manuscript is less than 5,000 words please let me know and we can work out pricing. I prefer to set up appointments for your manuscript, but please, send your manuscripts to me as early as possible. I can often work them in sooner than they are scheduled, but advance notice is much easier.
I use Microsoft Word 2013. I use the Track Changes application while I edit and leave the decision as to whether or not to accept those changes to you. I also tend to leave extensive notes outlining the reason for specific changes, noting uneven or awkward sentence or paragraph flow, or even if I noticed something that just doesn’t feel right.
Full editing is completed in one of two ways. The first choice is that I completely edit the book and provide you with a corrected copy, highlighting changes and corrections and making when appropriate extensive notes. Your second choice is full editing. I take the book in hand, do all corrections and changes and provide you with print ready copy. The charge for print ready copy is $0.010/word.
Please note: Books from authors who speak English as a second language, hence requiring a great deal more correction for grammar, or books with extensive re-write may be significantly more. You may send me your book for pricing if you feel there may be extensive work needed on the book. Pricing available upon request.
After I have edited a manuscript, I will send it back to you. Once you have made changes, you can always send it back to me for a second pass at no charge. Please note: If second-pass changes are truly extensive, I will reserve the right to bill a second payment for the second pass. I want to be fair to you, but I also want to be fair to myself. Just as writing is difficult, though rewarding, editing a book in a manner that will make you proud of your final product is a lot of work.
For available books on which I have worked, please see my “i-edited” shelf on Goodreads. You may contact any of the authors with whom I’ve worked for a reference. I am also very willing to provide you a sample of my work to see if we are a comfortable fit. I can be easily contacted through Goodreads or by e-mail at soireadthisbooktoday@centurylink.net
I look forward to working with you!
Audio Review: Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop
Murder of Crows is the second tale from the wickedly interesting world created by Ms. Bishop. Directly following the conclusion of the first book, Written in Red, the story focuses on the Lakeside Courtyard, its human and Other residents, and how life is changing because of the Blood Prophet, Meg Corbyn. I strongly suggest reading the first book in the series prior to this one, due to the intricacies of the world and the depth of the histories of the well-developed characters.
Like its predecessor, Murder of Crows is a deeply involving book, told from multiple points-of-view, to include a few Others, multiple humans, and even the villains. Although the POVs change frequently, the story doesn't jump around. The story flows from scene to scene and person to person naturally, and this method of storytelling provides a marvelously rounded picture of all that is happening.
One thing that I didn't care for about the book was the level of gruesome acts and violence against women. While not graphic in nature, there are parts of the story that gave me pause and horrified me. In the end, it didn't diminish the quality of the work, but while listening, there were times I needed a break from the story. These parts are few and far between, but there were enough for me to make note of it.
Due to the extensive nature of the book, it wouldn't do justice to try and highlight the various storylines. While many of the plots are shown to intertwine and conclude by the end of the book, there are a couple, such as Lt. Sgt. Montgomery's ex and daughter and the humans first and last movement, that are left unfinished. It is clear that the world is heading for war, and I just hope that the bits and pieces dropped into this story are picked up in the forthcoming book, Vision in Silver (March 2015).
Probably my favorite aspect of the story is watching how Simon (the wolf) and Meg (a non-edible human) learn from and about each other. Their growing friendship is both touching and sweet. Due to its unusual nature, the pair have learned to take time to listen to the other. Their communication is developing, creating a solid base, even though neither is sure what is happening. I also enjoy how this friendship is translating into a larger trust between some of the Others and humans. This coupled Meg's own personal growth as she learns how to live outside the compound and abuse of the Controller, gives the story heart.
Listening to this, the second book narrated by Alexandra Harris, I found myself more used to her idiosyncrasies, including her slower pace and her odd voice for Simon. I found comfort in the familiar and so, while the narration isn't remarkable, it isn't horrible, either. I was able to look past the issues I had with the narration more than in the first novel.
Overall, Murder of Crows is a well-written, intense and engrossing fantasy.
Story rating: B
Narration: B-
5