Emerald Edits

Developmental editing & beta reading services

Who is behind Emerald Edits?

Emerald Edits is run by Nicole McCurdy, an avid book blogger and reviewer from Ireland. Nicole, who studied media communications and writing for TV and radio, has over a decade of experience working with various best-selling authors and knows exactly the kind of feedback to give to make your story the best it can be. When she isn't nose-deep in a new historical romance book, you can find her walking through the woods or along the beach, listening to a good book. Failing that, she'll be on the sofa with a cup of tea, watching Quantum Leap.

What is a developmental edit?

Emerald Edits offers intensive developmental editing and beta reading in a wide range of genres, delivering constructive feedback on the bigger elements of a story, such as plot, character development, pacing, flow, and dialogue. Emerald Edits will also take into account things like who your target audience are, marketability, genres, and tropes. Having extensive knowledge and understanding of typical tropes within different genres is an essential tool to have at your disposal, whether you're penning a complex world-building, enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance, or a period romance, featuring the bluestocking and rake trope.

Developmental editing (also called substantive editing) is usually the first step in the editing process, as it involves a thorough review from your editor to determine any content and structural changes that should be made before publication. It's best to do this before you get too deep into fine-tuning details, like polishing your words, sentences, or grammar.

What can I expect in a developmental edit from Emerald Edits?

From Emerald Edits, you can expect to receive substantive editing, which is more targeted than an editorial letter. This is where an editor will mark your draft with comments in the margins relating to specific sentences and scenes. Emerald Edits will not only provide an edit but explain why that particular edit was made, so you can apply it to other areas of your manuscript.

When that is complete, Emerald Edits will then send an email returning your annotated manuscript, along with a one-to-two-page editor report.

Think of your developmental editor like a cheerleader — they are in your corner rooting for you and wanting to see you grow. Aside from your own eyes, a developmental editor is likely spending more time on your writing than anyone else. An editor knows your plot, structure, and characters as well as you do and can push you to bring out the best in your story.

Cancellation Policy.

Cancellation Notice:

- If you need to cancel or reschedule your editing services with me, please provide written notice at least 7 days before the scheduled start date of the project.
Cancellations:
- Cancellations made 7 or more days before the start date will not incur any charges.
- Cancellations made less than 7 days before the start date may result in a fee of 50% of the estimated project cost, at my discretion.
Rescheduling:
- Clients wishing to reschedule their editing services must do so within the same notice period. One rescheduling is permitted without penalty; additional changes may incur fees.
Refunds:
- As no booking fees are charged, refunds are not applicable. However, any prepaid amounts for services will be honoured in future bookings.
Exceptions:
- In cases of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, I will consider waiving any potential cancellation fees at my discretion.
Acknowledgment:
- By engaging my editing services at Emerald Edits, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this cancellation policy.