Seven Promising Tips to Find an Ideal Editor for Your Fantasy Book

If you are reading this, it means that you have already completed the manuscript for your fantasy book. Completing your manuscript can be a feeling like no other. It gives you a sense of accomplishment that no one can take away from you.

Whether you are an accomplished writer or have just started your career, it is important to understand the importance of hiring the right editor for your fantasy book and the role they play in uplifting your book.

If you are looking for an ideal editor for your fantasy book, here are some of the best tips to consider. 

Consider their Specialisation 

One of the most important things to keep in mind when you hire fantasy book editors is that you need someone who specialises in the subject. You cannot rely on any editor with experience to bring out the best in your fantasy world.

For example, an artist with excellence and years of experience in improving memoirs does not mean that they can also help you improve your manuscript in the best possible ways. You need someone who specialises in improving fantasy manuscripts.

Editors who specialise in the fantasy genre have an in-depth understanding of its unique characteristics. From common themes to the art of world-building, you can rely on their expertise to provide the much-needed feedback to improve your work.

Review Their Portfolio

When you are considering your options for the best editors for your manuscript, you must never hold back from asking the editors aspiring to work with you for their portfolio. It is the most important document to help you hire the right editor for your fantasy manuscript.

A portfolio is a platform that lets an editor tell you all about their experience and qualifications along with their work samples. It means that you will be able to review their skills and professionalism within a few minutes.

Even if the editor with whom you are considering has worked in multiple genres, make sure that they have sufficient experience in the fantasy fiction genre. Seeing their samples in this regard can help you make your final decision with confidence.

Inquire About Their Experience

Experience matters a lot when it comes to choosing the right editor for your fantasy book. Someone with experience is likely to know all about the ways to improve your work and figure out any potential problems in your manuscript.

An editor with years of experience must have the right insights from their work in several genres. While their work experience in other genres can give you a sense of confidence, it is also important to consider this aspect specifically in your fantasy fiction.

Look at their work samples and figure out if they have worked on the same fictional world, character arcs, or world-building techniques before. Create a checklist of what you are seeking from an editor in terms of experience. You can easily hire someone who fits the criteria for an ideal editor. 

Ask for Testimonials

Every editor whom you consider working with will have great things to say about their skills and expertise. No professional ever wants to undersell their skills. If anything, they may be overselling their skills. You cannot simply trust what they say. Instead, it is better to take some time to research by yourself.

Do not hold back from asking the editor you are considering for their services to provide testimonials. If they seem hesitant in this regard, you may want to start considering other options for the job right away. 

Testimonials from previous clients offer firsthand accounts of working with the fantasy editor you are considering. If you see an array of positive feedback regarding their professionalism, strengths, and work ethic, it means that you are also likely to have a great working experience with them.

Request a Sample Edit

If you are a novice author, you may not know that you can request a sample edit. Some editors may charge for providing a sample, but it can be worth it when you are trying to find the best editor for your fiction book.

Requesting a sample edit allows you to see how the editor approaches your manuscript and how they improve the details in your book that you may not even have noticed. It can help you see how hiring them can help you bring out the best in your book.

Most importantly, asking for a sample is an opportunity to learn more about the editor’s style. It can tell you whether they are compatible enough to work with you and if their approach works best for your book.

Look for a Connection 

Authors and editors work hand-in-hand to improve a manuscript and bring out the best in it. Both individuals have their own skills to boost the potential of a book in any genre when they work in the same direction. However, things can become very challenging if an author and editor work in different directions.

While hiring an editor for your fiction book, it is important for you to have a conversation with the editor to see if they are compatible with your working style. You can look at their communication skills to make the best decision.

Effective communication skills are essential for a successful collaboration between the author and the editor. It is best to choose a responsive editor who is clear in communication and open to discussing revisions and feedback. 

Ask About the Contracts

A contract is a very important part of hiring an editor for your fantasy book. A contract not only outlines the work model but also clarifies their rates and streamlines the editing process in many ways. A formal contract can demonstrate professionalism and reinforce credibility.

It is important to ensure that your contract is as transparent as possible to protect the rights of both parties involved. In addition, remember to ensure that the contract also discusses provisions for copyright ownership, confidentiality, and legal protection.