I’m going to be heading to the Self-Publishing Book Expo in New York City on October 27th. In advance of the expo we’ve interviewed a few of the experts who will be presenting.
Up today is Monica Harris, the founder of MHM Editorial Services.
1)Â
At what point in the writing process do you think an author should obtain the services of an editor?Writing groups, friends and family are useful to emotionally support the writer through the writing process. Professional editors are essential for clear-eyed and practical improvement of the manuscript. I think a writer should consider an editor when the writer feels his/her manuscript has a beginning, middle and end. The story may not be perfect but it should be as complete as possible. The writer can use the editor to make the characters stronger, the story flow well and the plot engaging. For non-fiction, the book should be as complete as possible; the editor will help make the ideas clear and the writing smooth. Ghostwriters help write the material; editors improve what’s already composed.
2)Â What editing mistakes do you find are most common?
The most common mistake is that the writer often skips important details in their book because they are so familiar with the story/material, they don’t see the gaps. At MHM Editorial, our specialty is working with the author so what’s in his or her head is on the page for their reader to enjoy and understand.
3)Â Can you offer advice to new authors who are looking to self-publish and searching for a great editor?
 The relationship between the editor and writer must be both social and professional as writing for publication is both an art and a business. Use referrals from fellow writers or look for the editor on the acknowledgement page from your favorite author’s latest book. Since working with an editor is an intimate relationship, ask yourself the following questions: Do you get along with the editor? Does he or she understand your writing style or subject? Does the editor challenge you to improve the novel? Do you feel the editor is working to create a long-term publishing career for you? For those who are self-publishing, an experienced editor offers the professionalism that is necessary for strong reviews and loyal readers. Find an editor who knows the challenges of self-publishing – editorial scheduling, for example — and has strategies for success.
4)Â How are romance novels unique from other genres when it comes to editing?
Romance readers have certain expectations of the plot and characters (as do all genres) but I love the possibilities that come with the genre. Writers must use heavy descriptions of their characters and settings so the readers can become emotionally engaged in the story; the readers must be able to feel what the characters feel. I allow the writers to use their imaginations and their individual writing styles to create passionately powerful stories—no cookie cutters – just so long as everyone lives happily ever after.
5)Â What kind of services does your firm MHM Editorial Services offer and do you work with first time authors?
MHM Editorial Services provide manuscript critiquing, line-editing and revision help for individuals and publishers. MHM Editorial works on commercial fiction and nonfiction by both new and established authors.
6) What session are you most looking forward to at the Self-Publishing Book Expo and why?
I’m looking forward to meeting the writers who attend SPBE. As you know, the Expo offers authors a good opportunity to learn and network with industry professionals.  For self-published authors, this is actually a very valuable asset of the show.  I’m interested in the THINK BEFORE YOU WRITE panel discussion because although the resources for self-publishing make the process easier, it’s still a lot of work for the novice. Of course, I’m interested in my own panel discussion, DON’T GO IT ALONE. It promises to provide writers valuable information about making their self-publishing career as polished as possible.
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