You've written a romance novel
Congratulations!
But you’re also…
Not sure what “editing” even really means.
Afraid something is missing from the story.
Ready to elevate your writing craft.
HEA Author Services is here to help.
We might be biased, but we think editing is where the real fun (and some of the most important work on your book) happens.
Let’s talk about how our team approaches romance novel editing and whether we’re the right fit for you.
Is romance editing important?
Editing helps you deliver the type of book readers expect with delicious conflict, unforgettable characters, and polished prose.
An editor can identify your strengths as a writer as well as point out opportunities for improving your skills.
We offer an objective view on what’s working well in your story and what still needs to be addressed, plus we can suggest strategies to enhance your storytelling.
Editors can also help you refine your writing style, make sentence-level edits, and give your copy a final proofread before you hit publish.
Are there different types of editing?
There are! Editing is often used as a one-size-fits-all term, but there are four core types of editing that romance authors typically need for their manuscripts.
Click below for detailed explanations and how they help your writing:
Developmental editing: macro story elements like goals, conflict, and character arcs
Line editing: micro story elements like pacing, voice, and deep point of view
Copy editing: spelling, punctuation, and grammar
Proofreading: the final check for any missed typos
Do I really need an editor?
What if I have beta readers?
You do. Again, we’re biased. But professional writers – and aspiring romance novelists – should definitely work with an editor.
Beta readers and critique partners can be an important part of your writing process also, but as trained editors with years of publishing experience, we approach your story with objectivity, reader expectations, and the current market in mind.
You’ve spent weeks, months, or even years writing your book. You’re going to invest in a great cover, a blurb that will immediately hook readers, and a marketing strategy to get this story in front of the people who will love it.
Ultimately, it’s your story that’s going to make readers fall in love and keep recommending and buying your books.
A well-edited manuscript is a crucial piece of a strong publishing package in today’s romance market.
How do I choose the right editor?
Choosing the right editor is key. If you want an in-depth overview, watch this video with HEA Author Services’ own Editor Jess giving her best advice.
Need the quick version? Keep these three points in mind.
Genre: First and foremost, choose an editor who understands your genre. The HEA Author Services team specializes in romance. We love love and love working with authors who do too. That translates into market knowledge and an understanding of genre norms that helps us laser target our feedback to your needs and your readers’ expectations.
Fit: You also want to find an editor you connect with as both a human being and a professional. Do you like their style of communication? Do you get along? Do you find their comments insightful? Think of the author and editor relationship as a long-term partnership. The right chemistry can get you through the tough parts – from hard feedback to the book that you’re struggling to write. The wrong chemistry can turn your editing project into a dark rom-com. We’re kidding on the last bit…mostly. But a good fit matters.
Logistics: Other important factors in choosing an editor include the type of editing you need (from that list above) and practical considerations such as timing and budget.
When genre knowledge, personal fit, and logistical alignment come together? It’s a match!
I don’t know what type of editing help I need.
Can you help me decide?
Absolutely. Let’s chat. Fill out this form with more details about your project and we’ll reply to discuss the specifics of what you need and how we can help.
Ready to book your romance novel edit? Book now.
Still have questions on the editing process or how HEA Author Services can help you? Get in touch.