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Hi! I'm Sarah McGuire, a freelance fiction editor based out of Summerville, SC.

I specialize in the early part of the editing journey, developmental and line editing. I'm familiar with most genres, but focus primarily on romance, fantasy, and historical fiction.

 

I only work on one manuscript at a time, which allows me to give each story my full attention. 

As a lover of love stories, romance is my jam! Contemporary, fantasy, historical, or paranormal . . . I love them all!

Sweet or spicy, bring it on! 

Sarah

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About Me

I have a BA in English from Kansas State University and a MA in English Literature from College of Charleston. I used my degrees to teach English 101 and 102 at a local technical college for six years, but stopped ten years ago to focus on raising my three boys and volunteering at their school. With all the kids in school full-time, I’ve shifted my career to editing fiction. 

I started training with a certificate program through the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, The Keys to Effective Editing. I've also received a certificate from Editorial Arts Academy for completing the Copyediting Fiction and Nonfiction Trade Books practicum, as well as the Developmental Editing for Fiction course. 

Locally, I've been fortunate to help at the Joggling Board Press, as well as assisting several authors from the Main Street Writes writing group.

When I'm not editing, I'm usually momming or reading, though I admit I'm slightly addicted to putting together LEGO sets!

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Services

Line editing examines writing style and language use on a line-by-line level, focusing on tightening and smoothing out any confusing passages, as well as looking out for any other style issues.

 

Includes: 

Style sheet

Editorial letter

Thirty-minute consultation (if desired) 

Rate: $.015 per word

A heavy edit starts with a developmental edit, which focuses on issues such as plot, structure, and character development.  After revisions, there is a second round for line edits.

Includes:

Style sheet

Marginal notes

Extensive editorial letter

Thirty-minute consultation (if desired)

Rate: $.02 per word

A beta read is great for an in-depth look at your manuscript's bigger picture (plot and character development).

 Includes:

Marginal comments

Brief reader report

Thirty-minute consultation (if desired)

 

Rate: $200 up to 50,000 words
         $300 for 50,000+ words

**For any follow-up services, the beta read fee will be subtracted from that service's total. 

Testimonials

Christina Sinisi, Author of Why They Call It Falling 

As the author of four published novels and a number of short stories, I have worked with many editors and none have been more thorough than Sarah McGuire. Her insight and attention to detail encourage me as I now search for an agent!

Andrew W. Bennett, Author of Dextera Domini

Sarah at By the By Editing takes your work and evolves it to the next level. She edits with the writer in mind and gives you the advice and critical eye you need for your piece to shine. Sarah is quick, efficient, skilled, and respectful of your work. I highly recommend Sarah and will be using her services for my future projects.

Layla Wood, Author

Sarah really dives deep into your manuscript. Her attention to detail is unmatched, and her feedback is constructive. Not to mention she has a hawk eye for inconsistencies no matter how tiny. I couldn’t have given my manuscript to a more professional and skilled editor. HIGHLY recommend!

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Serving the greater Charleston, SC area!

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