WHAT I DO
Editorial Services
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Manuscript Critique
Developmental Edit
Line Edit
Copy Writing
Book Plotting
Publishing Consulting
*Email for more information
Query Polishing
Workshops*
Panels*
Pitch/Tag Line Improvement*
Genre Specialties
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Romance - all subgenres and heat levels
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Urban Fantasy
Horror
Reading Group Fiction/Women's Fiction/Literary Commercial Fiction
LGBT Fiction
Young Adult
PES Editorial
Independent Book Editor &
Publishing Consultant
Manuscript Critique​
$11 per 1000 words
Includes an editorial letter pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript with a focus on structure, plot, character, worldbuilding, pacing, conflict, stakes, themes, tone, etc.
Recommended for new authors looking for a general editorial assessment of their work or early drafts that aren't ready for an in-depth developmental edit.
Developmental Edit
$16-$22 per 1000 words
This level of edits focuses on the foundation of your book and includes an editorial letter outlining major issues in the manuscript (as in the manuscript critique) and suggestions for improvement, along with margin comments addressing specific areas where these revisions can be made, as well as flagging word choice, repetition, consistency, clarity, and story logic questions.
Recommended for writers who have reached their self-editing limit and who want a professional opinion before getting into prose-level technicalities. Multiple passes can be scheduled separately at reduced rates.
Extensive Edit
ask for rates
With extensive edits, you'll receive all of the developmental edits above, plus tracked line edits on the revised draft to strengthen elements of the prose, including grammar, syntax, sentence clarity, word choice, etc.
Recommended for indie authors looking for a fine tuning before publication.
Partial Manuscript Critique​
If you're looking for feedback on the opening of your novel before you get too far into writing--to catch any major plot holes before they happen, ensure strong opening chapters, and avoid logistical nightmares--I can provide a manuscript critique of the first 50 (standard-formatted) pages and a synopsis for only $300. Add margin comments for a developmental edit for $50!
Copy Writing
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With any of the above editorial packages, I can write cover copy (the description of your book that appears on the back cover and retail sites) that will appeal to consumers and include keywords and metadata.
Query Polishing
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Need help with your query? I can provide notations and guidance for tightening your pitch and focusing on what's important. (But I can't guarantee requests or publication!) Only $100.
Note: This is available for all writers; $50 as an add-on to the above editorial services.
Book Plotting
​$25 per 30 minutes
My favorite thing is brainstorming ideas, so if you're stuck on a plot point or character arc--or if you just work better with someone to riff off--let's talk. On video chat or phone call, we can turn your premise into an outline and identify sticky spots to avoid when you draft.
WHO I AM
Hi, I'm Peter Senftleben ("Senf-lay-ben"). I have a passion for helping writers hone their craft and turn their projects into the best books they can be. My editorial ethos is intention and collaboration, and my approach is direct and honest but supportive.
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I have a degree in chemical engineering and math from Tulane University that allows me to approach things analytically. But 20 years of experience adds a layer of instinct and market knowledge to manage reader expectations. I started as an intern at Writers House literary agency, then joined a much smaller boutique agency. I soon moved to the editorial side of the business and spent ten years acquiring, editing, and publishing a wide range of commercial fiction for Kensington Publishing. In 2016, I narrowed my focus to crime novels at Crooked Lane Books before becoming a full-time freelancer. I also have some experience licensing works for audio and serialization apps.
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In two decades, I've edited more than 300 titles in genres ranging from romance to mystery to horror, as well as mainstream fiction. Many of the authors with whom I've worked have won awards and are New York Times and USA Today bestsellers.
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TL;DR? I like books, cookies, reality competition shows, New Orleans, pizza, puzzles, and chocolate. Not necessarily in that order.
"I credit you with taking me to the finish line. You understood what I was trying to do, and with your patient and skilled direction, the manuscript was sculpted into a better piece."
--Terry S. Friedman, author of Bone Pendant Girls
WHAT THEY SAY
"You have the enviable knack of getting to the heart of the story and then helping me to see my own work through a different lens." --Seana Kelly, bestselling author of the Sam Quinn series
"Can't say enough good things about working with Peter. He's been flexible, kind and patient. His feedback is right on the money and I'm incredibly grateful for all of his time and hard work. Fantastic editor!"
--A.R. Stevens, author of The Serpent Code
"Thank you...for going above and beyond to help me bring this book to life. You shared your valuable knowledge about publishing, offered spot-on suggestions to help me perfect the cover, and even helped me with the dreaded summary. Most of all, your kind words gave me the confidence in myself to believe this book could be something truly special." --Valerie Gomez, author of Cover Story.
"AMAZING! His feedback is clear, clean, and always spot on. He's been supportive every step of the way." --Bridget E. Baker, author of the Birthright series
"You are so thorough, analytical, and insightful. I appreciate how you are straight forward but kind. The plot suggestions are invaluable to me..." --Suzette Hollingsworth, author or Sherlock Holmes and the Chocolate Menace
"Your insight into my story ideas, and especially the early drafts, is nothing short of extraordinary. Thank you for your encouragement and creativity and expertise."
--Alyssa Richards, author of Forced Perspective
"Peter is thorough and doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear. He’ll give you honest and constructive criticism that you need to make you book the best it can be."
--C. L. Holzapfel, author of the Allan Pennbrook series
HOW TO CONTACT ME
Request a free editorial estimate!
Please use your title as the subject line and include your genre, word count, and a couple paragraphs about your work. I want to make sure I'm the best fit for your book!
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*Please note that I don't edit nonfiction and I'm not a copyeditor.