Developmental Edit for First Book in Sci-Fi/Superhero Action Adventure Series (190K words)

Developmental edit needed for a debut 190K-word superhero action-adventure novel. Novel has been previously edited by author and has one more edit round left before self-publishing to fine tune prose and story elements. Key areas of concern are pacing, overall interest in the story, overall enjoyability, and trusting the reader. A great author/editor fit may lead to future editing opportunities across short stories and other novels in work.

Turnaround time: Before January 31, 2026. (Can be adjusted based on hire date)

Targeting editors who are emerging professionals, early career, or looking to build their portfolio and experience, but open to all experience levels.

Prefer editor have interest in speculative science fiction, superheroes, and/or action-adventure books.

Prefer editor have experience with debut authors.

Must be willing to hold at least one virtual debrief/review session after developmental edit is complete for questions and discussion.

Must be willing to provide a sample edit of an excerpt from the novel (author will provide sample based on editor's preferred excerpt desires - beginning, middle, end, fight scene, intense dialogue, etc). Author is willing to pay a sample edit fee for any selected applicants who are requested to provide a sample review.

Core Elements Desired in Review Report

Editor may provide any analysis elements aligned with their training/knowledge. Below are core areas to touch on.

Plot & Structure: Analyzing the story's arc, conflict, subplots, and overall organization for coherence and impact.

Character Development: Assessing character motivations, consistency, growth (arcs), believability, and distinct voices.

Theme & Message: Ensuring the central ideas, themes, or arguments are clear, consistent, and effectively conveyed to the target audience.

Pacing: Checking the flow of the story, identifying sections that drag or rush, and adjusting tension.

Point of View & Voice: Verifying the narrative perspective is consistent and the voice suits the story and audience.

Clarity & Cohesion: Ensuring ideas, arguments, or plot points connect logically and are easy to understand.

Consistency: Checking for continuity errors in plot, character, or world-building.

Audience & Genre: Ensuring the content, tone, and style align with the intended readers and genre conventions.