Welcome to Refined Lines... your Island Editor!

Whatever your project, if it has words, I can help you.

You might be a writer, dreaming of finally finishing that novel, or recording your amazing life in a memoir. Maybe you're a professional, looking to improve your communications image. Perhaps you're a local merchant, and your marketing materials could use some sparkle. Or maybe you're a student with Grade "A" ideas, but Grade "C" writing skills. No matter what you are working on, you can benefit from adding an editor to your collection of resources.

With Services ranging from simple proofreading to substantive editing, re-writing and consultation, there are many ways I can assist you, whatever your needs may be. You can get a little help with one specific aspect of your project, or you can get a lot of help and support through the entire project, or anything in between.

So, have a look around - I think you'll find just what you need!

What is the value of editing?

In written communication, the goal is to be clear, consistent, concise and correct. The value of a professional editor is not only for catching typos and correcting spelling, but for issues of clarity and organization. Editing involves carefully reviewing the material, ensuring it is consistent and correct and that its content, language, style, and organization suit the author's purpose and meet the needs of the audience.

In short - editing makes you look good! What professional editors really do is help you think clearly, saving you from costly mistakes or embarrassment, and making your work the best it can be. Your editor is your partner in the writing process - on your side, and invested in your success.
 

Who should hire an editor?

Writers

Careful editing can make an enormous difference to the quality of your writing and the success of your manuscript. Even if you publish online or some other "free" format, no one will keep reading if the writing is not good. And these days, publishing houses will instantly reject an unedited manuscript in favour of endless other choices that have already been polished and tightened and need minimal work. Not only will editing improve the writing, working with a professional editor will strengthen a writer's skills immeasurably over time. Editing can be a demanding process, but it's just full of great learning opportunities! Editors can also help you to "get around to it". Have you been working on your novel for twenty years? Meaning to start your memoirs for the last decade? Maybe the story has been finished for ages, but the manuscript sits in a drawer collecting dust. Sometimes accountability, encouragement, and feedback are what you need to get moving forward. Call your editor!
 

Professionals

Does your work require public speaking, presentations, or reports? Anytime you have to use language effectively to communicate ideas, an editor can help. Whether we collaborate right from the planning stages or come together over the final draft, editing will improve your results and enhance your professional reputation.
 

Merchants

You might think there's little "writing" involved in running a small business, but what about business stationery, marketing materials, signage, menus, or all the various types of correspondence with vendors and clients? All of these things reflect on you, and people notice poor quality. Each individual item may be small, but they all add up to a big picture. Editing helps you make a better impression, and that's good for business!
 

Students

The most frequent way that students use editors is for proofreading papers and projects. Simply removing blatant errors can sometimes alter your reader's impression enough to affect your grade, and it's quick enough to fit a student budget. If English is not your first language, an editor could be critical to ensure your thoughts are conveyed effectively. Details like using "the" correctly and placing all your commas properly will make a huge difference in the impact your work achieves. And if you're really serious about improving your grades, ongoing collaboration with an editor will certainly increase your success.