What Exactly Does a Book Editor Do [And Why Do Authors Rely on Them?]

As someone who has worked closely with authors navigating the unpredictable world of publishing, I’ve seen firsthand how vital a book editor is in transforming a written draft into a polished, professional publication. Many authors I’ve worked with often want to put their own stories out there, and while they can absolutely do it, the journey is filled with steps that require expertise editing being one of the most crucial.

A great editor doesn’t just correct grammar or punctuation; they help shape the story, bring clarity, enhance tone, and guide the book through the production process with an eye for quality and consistency. In my business, we pull together a team of editors, designers, and writers, ensuring every element of your book feels intentional and refined.

The truth is, even the most powerful and popular manuscripts need to be edited and sometimes even rewritten before they’re ready to be published. I’ve had clients who were amazed at how many steps it actually took—starting from writing, then editing, to eventually being ready for self-publishing.

It’s not just about getting it “out there” whether it sells or not depends on how well it’s been shepherded from draft to finished product. That’s where I step in, to guide and support you as you setup as a publisher of your own work. The popularity and growth of self-publishing today give many writers the chance to be their own publisher, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done from formatting to cover design, and of course, the editing itself.

With so much information out there, it’s tempting to think you can handle it all solo, but working with a professional editor ensures you don’t miss the little things that make a book shine. You’ll find that when you get support, the process becomes much smoother.

The Best Books to Read Are Those That Have Been Edited

The best books to read are those that have been edited. Even multi-published authors and bestsellers require editing. Editing strengthens a manuscript, making it more marketable and ultimately stronger. In order for your book to reach its readers, keep them engaged, and inspire them to want to read more from you, it needs to be edited.

When working with a traditional royalty publisher, editing is typically included as part of your contract. However, if you’re self-publishing, you, as the publisher, are responsible for covering this cost. Too many writers mistakenly believe that self-editing is enough when they are self publishing.

I’ve seen books that were once chaotic but later, transformed by an editor’s touch into something truly powerful. That’s why authors who need to stand out in the crowd, especially those entering the self-publishing world, must treat editing not as an optional step, but as a necessity. Whether you’re starting with just an idea or you’ve already finished writing your book, I’m here to help you bring it to life together, we can make sure your work gets the attention it deserves.

Why Should You Hire an Editor?

You have spent a lot of time on the writing stage drafts, revising, and polishing your book. You are confident that your work is good, especially since your high school English teacher praised your writing skills! However, now that you’re working as an accountant and writing only emails, you might wonder if hiring an editor is necessary. After all, your book seems pretty great, right? The truth is, an editor does much more than simply nitpick.

They help improve the quality of your book, ensuring that it leaves the best first impression on readers. Without an editor, you could risk the embarrassment of publishing a book that doesn’t make sense, has a boring plot, is too wordy, or contains grammar and spelling mistakes.

An editor will ensure your writing is clear, concise, and free of errors, making sure your work stands out when it’s finally published. If you are writing just for yourself to enjoy the satisfaction of creating, then you might not need an editor. But if you intend to get your book in front of readers, hiring an editor is a crucial step to make sure your work is the best it can be.

How to Choose an Editor for Your Book?

When you’re diving into self-publishing, one of the most crucial steps is finding the right editor. You might need to assemble a team consisting of a copy editor, cover designer, and an interior page formatter. The good news is, there are plenty of freelance editors out there, but it’s essential to be cautious.

Start by asking for samples of their work, reviewing their website, and checking references. Building solid relationships with trusted editors and designers is key especially when you rely on their expertise to get your book published. Freelance marketplaces like reedsy.com and upwork.com can help you connect with skilled freelance workers. Make sure you pick someone with the experience to deliver great work for your clients.

What Is the Cost of Hiring an Editor?

When considering self-publishing, it’s important to understand that the investment in editing can be sizable. For a manuscript of around 70,000 words, the costs can range from $2,100 to $5,000, depending on the editor’s experience and the type of editing required.

After you’ve done some initial self-editing, tightening and improving your writing, you might still need a professional to look over your work. An editor could read your work and suggest cutting a chapter, or perhaps even recommend that parts of your manuscript be completely rewritten.

I have had clients who were surprised when I suggested a developmental edit after they’d already self-edited. They thought that their efforts were enough, but as I often explain, there’s always more to refine when it comes to making your book truly shine in the eyes of readers.

Where Can I Find a Comprehensive Book Editor?

You can find detailed book editors on several platforms and websites dedicated to freelance work and editing services. Here are some places to start:

1. Fiverr – Offers a wide range of experienced editors for developmental editing, line editing, proofreading, and more, with flexible pricing options to suit various budgets.
2. Reedsy – A curated marketplace that connects self-publishers with top-tier editors, offering detailed profiles of editors who specialize in different aspects of the book editing process.
3. Upwork – A platform where you can hire professional editors with specialized experience in different genres. You can browse profiles, read reviews, and find someone who fits your specific needs.
4. Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) – The EFA website is a great resource for finding qualified editors, providing detailed information about their expertise and services.
5. LinkedIn – You can also find book editors by searching for editorial professionals on LinkedIn, reading their credentials, and reaching out directly.

Editing Is a Big Part of Your Self-Publishing Journey

But it’s still a part. So you need to take into account all the steps involved in this process!

The path to success in self-publishing is a lot harder than many authors anticipate. Sure, you can create a nice story to attract a few people. But what if that story is not that powerful? What if your book has a poorly designed DIY cover? What if your book has poor formatting. What if it has typos, misspellings and run-on sentences? Early readers will notice these telltale signs that you didn’t take the time to perfect your work.

For that kind of book, a few bad reviews in the beginning could quickly snowball, and eventually, no one will even bother to read your book.

At Penman International, we believe every author deserves the chance to publish a book they can be proud of—one that’s professionally polished, beautifully presented, and thoughtfully edited. Editing isn’t just a task on your publishing checklist—it’s the heart of what makes your book shine and stand apart in a crowded marketplace.

Whether you’re overwhelmed by the technical side of self-publishing or unsure where to begin with editing, we’re here to support you. Our team brings together experienced editors, formatters, designers, and publishing professionals who understand the self-publishing journey inside and out. We help authors like you turn rough manuscripts into books that feel just as compelling and credible as any traditionally published title.

If you’re ready to take the next step but don’t want to do it alone, reach out. Let’s collaborate to elevate your work—because your story deserves to be told well, and we’re here to make sure it is.