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re419: Your Book Deserves Better: Here’s How to Make It Exceptional
How to Make Your Book Unstoppable: Editing, Storytelling & Selling More Copies
Check out the in-person conference here: https://storyhouseworks.com/conference-2025
[ https://youtu.be/KmNcDeqf62o ]
So, you’ve written a book—or at least you’re deep in the trenches of writing one. Maybe you’ve spent months (or years) crafting your manuscript, pouring your heart and soul onto the page. Now, you’re wondering…
? Is my book ready to publish?
? Do I really need an editor?
? Can’t I just proofread it myself or have a friend take a look?
If you’ve ever had these thoughts, you’re not alone. Many writers wrestle with whether hiring an editor is worth it, especially in the self-publishing world. In my recent interview with Rebecca, a professional editor and book doctor, we dug deep into the role of editing—why it’s more than just fixing typos and why skipping this step could cost you readers (and sales).
Rebecca will be speaking at the StoryHouse Works conference in Amsterdam on March 20th, where she and a panel of editors will help writers understand how to refine their manuscripts and ensure their books align with their goals, audience, and message. Whether you’re publishing fiction or nonfiction, these insights could be the missing piece in your book’s success.
The Biggest Editing Myths Writers Believe (And Why They’re Wrong)
? Myth #1: “I Can Just Edit It Myself”
Sure, you can edit your own book, but should you? Editing isn’t just about spotting typos—it’s about ensuring clarity, consistency, and reader engagement. An experienced editor sees what you can’t: pacing issues, character inconsistencies, weak transitions, and even parts of the book that might confuse readers.
Rebecca shared that even bestselling authors work with professional editors because they know a fresh pair of eyes makes all the difference.
? Myth #2: “I’ll Just Have My Friend Read It”
It’s great to have beta readers, but there’s a huge difference between getting casual feedback and working with a professional editor. Friends and family may not be able to provide objective, constructive criticism—or they may not have the expertise to spot deeper structural issues in your writing.
Editors, on the other hand, aren’t just there to fix your book—they collaborate with you to make it stronger. They challenge your ideas, help you align your book with your goals, and guide you through the tough decisions that will elevate your manuscript.
? Myth #3: “Editing Is Just for Grammar and Spelling”
Editing goes way beyond fixing commas and typos. Rebecca specializes in developmental editing and book doctoring, which means she helps authors with:
?? Big-picture storytelling – Does the structure make sense? Are the ideas clear?
?? Audience alignment – Is this book actually written for the reader you’re targeting?
?? Clarity & Flow – Does each chapter naturally lead to the next?
?? Refining the message – Does your book align with your WHY?
Think of an editor like a personal trainer for your book—helping it get in shape before it goes out into the world.
Your Book I
Published on 9 months, 1 week ago