Novel almost ready – what next?

bluepencilagency offers a personal editorial and reading service for both published authors and aspiring writers. The idea of collaboration between editor and writer isn't new. However, whereas once it was the job of the publisher to nurture new talent in the world of literature, in today's market a new writer has to arrive on the publisher's doorstep with a polished manuscript.

An editor is the writer's second pair of eyes whose job is to encourage, persuade and problem solve. Working with an editor is making the leap from the fear of criticism to accepting support and establishing a clearer perspective of the market - understanding work as product, not just art. Often writers have little idea of the market and what essential ingredients all publishers are looking for. The relationship between writer and editor is a literary marriage, a process that can transform a story from a personal piece of writing into a publishable novel.

Why bluepencilagency? Writer and editor, Sara Sarre founded bluepencilagency in 2015 and was joined by Emma Haynes in 2016. As well as having a clear understanding of the publishing world and what books sell, Sara and Emma know the power of a fresh voice and a good story. "Writing isn't just being heard, it's about forming a relationship with the reader and understanding who that reader is," says Sara. "In working with authors, we communicate what needs to be changed or cut in a clear and constructive manner that is both helpful and thoughtful," adds Emma. Both editors work closely with a number of literary agents and when appropriate are able to recommend novelists who are worthy of jumping to the top of the slush pile.

What type of edit?

Editor's Report. A detailed report of your manuscript (8 -12 pages) A thorough assessment of your work containing an overview and comments on structure, narrative (point of view, pace, tense, narrator's voice, consistency) plot and character development. Examples from the manuscript will be given to illustrate each point. The report will also include recommendations for moving forward.

Reader's Report. An overview of your manuscript (3 - 5 pages) Recommended for more experienced novelists who have mastered technique and need to see how a reader receives the novel. This report does not include examples from your manuscript.

Submission Package. Your submission package should contain: a letter, a synopsis and the first three chapters of your novel, up to 15,000 words. Most agents complain that letters are often full of spelling mistakes and grammatical errors, or that there is more information on the writer than on the novel itself. We will ensure your submission is perfect.

Mentoring. A follow up service to writers who want help with restructuring chapter-by-chapter, following an editor's report. This is provided by skype or in person over an extended period.

Editorial Breakdown. A detailed chapter-by-chapter analysis of a manuscript including a line edit.