Ello Editorial

Need a friendly, eagle-eyed editor?

I can refine your writing to bring out its full potential while preserving your voice.Whether you’re working on an ambitious fantasy series, a gritty thriller, a heartfelt memoir, or just need to tighten up your back cover copy, I’m confident I can provide significant value to your project.

Get a free editing sample!

I'm ready to go above and beyond to facilitate your publishing experience. I care about building my reputation and I care about maintaining yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ello Editorial’s stance on AI?

I will NOT edit AI-generated text. In return, I promise not to feed your text to an AI program that would train itself on your writing or to use an AI program trained on stolen writing.I am willing to edit writing that has been edited with generative AI tools, as well as texts that have been machine translated. However, please disclose if your writing has been through either process, as they often add as many problems as they fix.I primarily use non-AI tools and methods such as Microsoft Word wildcard searches. I use select AI-assisted tools like Ludwig Guru’s “Search in context” (only for short, generic phrases). If you want to specify which tools can and cannot be used to edit your project, please tell me. However, the longer time it takes me to edit without certain tools will be reflected in my price quote.

What software do you use to edit?:

I edit raw text on a DOCX file on Microsoft Word using the “Track Changes” feature.
I proofread final layouts by marking up a PDF file on Adobe Acrobat.If you require editing or proofreading services on a different program, such as Adobe InDesign, please contact me and describe the parameters of your project.

List of Services

Contact

I usually reply within 24 hours. If you have a question (or just want to say hi!), please send me an email or message me on Discord (@ello.editorial).

If you’re interested in a free editing sample, please describe your project and your editing needs. I’ll reply as soon as possible!If you’d like to discuss your project or career ambitions in a free discovery call (audio or video) on Zoom or Discord, just let me know!Please read my policy on pricing and price quotes. If you’re satisfied with my sample edit and price quote, I’ll direct you to fill out the appropriate Google Forms before sending you a contract to e-sign.

eBook Formatting

Under construction—please check back soon!

Print Book Formatting

Under construction—please check back soon!

Editing Services

Because exact definitions vary among professionals and associations, I base my definitions and expectations on Editors Canada's Professional Editorial Standards, which apply to works of fiction and nonfiction.Keep in mind that the lines between different editing services may blur, and that your project may not need my most comprehensive approach. Because I'm flexible, I'll tailor my work to your needs! Take a look at my budget-friendly editing services for novels and memoirs!Choose your desired service(s) based on your needs, but please note that skipping a level will have a cascading effect. For example, I may not be willing to proofread a document that clearly has not been copy edited.

• Structural Editing
• Stylistic Editing
• Copy Editing
• Stylistic + Copy Editing
• Proofreading

Structural Editing

Worried about gaping plot holes? Re-reading your manuscript so often that the words are starting to blur together? My Structural Editing service (also known as developmental editing) looks at the big picture of your manuscript. I’ll help you see your work through fresh eyes, ensuring it’s organized, engaging, and strong from beginning to end.I’m particularly familiar with the themes and conventions found in speculative fiction (sci-fi, fantasy, dystopian), crime fiction, thrillers, contemporary fiction, queer fiction, narrative nonfiction, and children’s & young adult fiction. As the (presumably!) first editor working on your project, I’ll help set you up for success.

Rates begin at $0.035 per word for two rounds of structural editing. Note: I am flexible with pricing, but a lower budget means less time spent on your project. Please give me a 3,000-word excerpt of manuscript to evaluate and tell me your budget.If you’re looking for a less comprehensive version of this service for your novel or memoir, consider my manuscript assessment service.

Stylistic Editing

Dialogue missing some zip? Clumsy sentences dragging down your paragraphs? Struggling to keep your tone just right? Whether you’re writing for children, enthusiasts, or a general audience, I’ll adjust the language level and ensure your desired tone stays intact.My Stylistic Editing service (also known as line editing) includes resolving major grammatical and punctuation errors (for example, I would add a space after a comma), but not enforcing style decisions (for example, I wouldn’t delete or add a serial comma), unless combined with copy editing.I’ll recast sentences as needed for improved clarity, flow, and meaning, working with you to fine-tune your writing without changing your unique voice.

Rates begin at $0.025 per word for two rounds (three total passes) of stylistic editing. Note: I am flexible with pricing, but a lower budget means less time spent on your project.If you want a less comprehensive approach that prioritizes efficiency, please consider my fixed-rate light stylistic editing service.

Copy Editing

An essential step for all written content, good copy editing elevates your writing and prepares it for publication.My Copy Editing service focuses on resolving typographical, grammatical, and punctuation errors. I’ll confirm your flow of events are logical, and I’ll check names, dates, and other basic details for accuracy and consistency. For web content, I also check for broken links and proper use of ALT text.Whether I’m fixing tricky dialogue punctuation or ensuring consistent terminology across your epic fantasy series, I’ll polish your writing to meet publishing industry standards.

Rates begin at $0.02 per word for two rounds (three total passes) of copy editing. Note: I am flexible with pricing, but a lower budget means less time spent on your project.If you want a less comprehensive approach that prioritizes efficiency, please consider my fixed-rate light copy editing service.

Stylistic Editing + Copy Editing

I can efficiently combine Stylistic Editing and Copy Editing to polish your text at the sentence level.

Rates begin at $0.03 per word for two rounds (three total passes) of stylistic + copy editing. Note: I am flexible with pricing, but a lower budget means less time spent on your project.If you want a less comprehensive approach that prioritizes efficiency, please consider my fixed-rate light stylistic + copy editing service.

Proofreading

Give your published book a professional sheen! If you’ve invested in a custom-designed book interior, my meticulous Proofreading service will fine-tune the layout, checking for accuracy and polishing every element. I’ll review your designed PDF file, annotate it using Adobe Acrobat, and compare the final layout to the original manuscript to catch any missing text and inconsistencies.I specialize in proofreading print book interiors, but I also proofread various print materials, including fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels (like comics and OEL manga), magazines, and marketing materials.I can also review eBooks for indexing issues, scan for typos, and check for formatting errors. Whether your eBook was coded from scratch or converted with software, I can test it on devices like a 6" e-reader and a 10" tablet.

Rates begins at $0.015 per word for two rounds (three total passes) of proofreading. If your project is a graphic novel or magazine, I will quote a price per page. Note: I am flexible with pricing, but a lower budget means less time spent on your project.If you want a less comprehensive approach that prioritizes efficiency, please consider my fixed-rate light proofreading service.

Glossary

These are some of the editing and proofreading terms I use to describe my editorial services.

• Editing Round
• Editorial Report
• Style Sheet/Guide/Manual
• Light vs. Medium vs. Heavy Edit

Editing Round

The publishing industry calls for multiple passes per round for each type of editing, often done in collaboration with the writer.I use “pass” to refer to a complete read-through, not small checks such as checking all semicolons in a document.Depending on the project’s scope, I’ll complete one or more passes, then send the edited document with an editorial report. My comprehensive services include a two rounds and three full read-throughs. After the first round, you review and accept or reject my proposed changes, then send the document back so I can incorporate your feedback.For indie authors, I offer a single light editing pass as a budget-friendly option, focusing on efficiency over thoroughness.

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Editorial Report

Also called an editor’s letter or feedback letter.I’ll provide a report with an overview of my edits and explanations of my suggestions. I’ll highlight your writing’s strongest points and areas of concern.Comprehensive editorial reports are included in my standard services, while my budget-friendly services include more concise reports.

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Style Sheet vs. Style Guide vs. Style Manual

A style sheet is tailored to each project to ensure internal consistency during editing.

A house style guide lists style preferences for use across multiple projects. Generally, this does not apply to indie authors.

A style manual provides a comprehensive source of editorial rules. By default, I use the Chicago Manual of Style, the industry standard for most book publishers.

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Light vs. Medium vs. Heavy Edit

These terms clarify the scope of my stylistic editing, copy editing, and proofreading services. You can request minimally invasive editing, where I preserve your original wording and make only essential changes, or thorough editing, where I suggest optimizations wherever possible. Both options require more time than my balanced, standard approach.

light = efficient editing. I’ll focus on addressing major issues while flagging potential concerns for your review. This approach suits tight budgets, time constraints, or authors worried about having their voice stifled.For my efficient light approach, I’ll focus on the prose and won't take scene-by-scene notes. I strongly recommend having your project beta-read first!

medium = standard editing. I’ll preserve your authorial voice while delivering thoughtfull edits.I can prioritize narrative analysis (scene-by-scene notes and maintaining logical consistency) or prose editing (close reading for sentence-level errors). If I’m the final editor on a project, I default to the latter.

heavy = comprehensive editing. I’ll closely examine your writing to optimize it on the sentence level.This level of intervention is reserved for texts in rough shape, such as early drafts, machine-translated text, or AI-edited text. (Note: I will not edit AI-generated text.) As I dislike imposing my personal style on others’ writing, I may decline projects in need of structural editing or extensive rewriting.

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Query Letter/Blurb - Critique, Editing, or Writing

Describing your entire manuscript in a few taut paragraphs is challenging—especially if you’re too close to your work and are struggling to boil it down to the most essential information.Whether you want to impress a literary agent with a compelling query letter or attract readers with a marketable synopsis, I’m confident I can help.If, after reading your work, I determine that I can’t offer substantial value, I won't invoice you. I want to help you succeed!

Pricing

I offer a constructive critique for a summary, synopsis, or query letter (or any other short passage, such as an author bio) for a flat price of $10. Alternatively, I offer two rounds of stylistic and copy editing for a flat price of $30.If I’ve already read your entire manuscript as part of another editorial service, I can write a summary synopsis (for a query letter) or a teaser synopsis (for your book description) for your book. I’ll provide you with differently structured options and collaborate with you over two rounds of revisions. Please contact me to discuss pricing for this service or any other copywriting needs.

Manuscript Assessment

My manuscript assessment service is a more thorough version of beta reading. If you’re not ready to commit to Structural Editing yet, or if your manuscript is at an earlier stage, a manuscript assessment is a valuable alternative.I will read your manuscript once and assess its structure, strengths, and weaknesses. I’ll leave inline comments throughout your work. You can choose to receive edits in the provided text file using Track Changes or a separate document with a chapter-by-chapter breakdown.I can provide detailed feedback on the plot, the prose, or a balanced mix of both. I’ll tailor my response to your needs—whether you're seeking encouragement, constructive criticism, a thorough analysis of your style and habits, or praise for everything I love about your writing!

For this service, I charge a flat price of $80 plus $0.005 per word (e.g. $80 + $300 for 60,000 words, $80 + $500 for 100,000 words, etc.). Note: I am flexible with pricing, but a lower budget means less time spent on your project. Please give me a 3,000-word excerpt of manuscript to evaluate and tell me your budget.This service can be expanded into my standard developmental editing, stylistic editing, copy editing, or stylistic + copy editing services.

Budget Editing Services

Do you have a modest budget? Do you want a professional editor’s eyes on your self-edited book? Here are some affordable options designed to provide great value for indie authors!These light editing services are only suitable for relatively clean manuscripts! Please self-edit to the best of your abilities first so I can focus on giving your writing a professional sheen. If you need more comprehensive editing, please consider my full editing services.

• Light Stylistic Edit
• Light Copy Edit
• Light Stylistic + Copy Edit
• Light Proofread
• budget publishing package

Efficient Light Stylistic Editing

I will do one light stylistic editing pass, resolving grammar and punctuation issues while refining your language to improve your text’s clarity and flow. Taking into account your genre and medium, I’ll optimize your writing to enhance your readers’ enjoyment.For this service, I charge a flat price of $80* plus $0.006 per word (e.g. $80 + $360 for 60,000 words, $80 + $600 for 100,000 words, etc.).

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Efficient Light Copy Editing

I will do one light copy editing pass. Tell me your areas of concern: fact-checking; logical consistency; internal consistency (large cast of characters, extensive fantasy lexicon); formatting issues; clarity and readability; grammatical, syntax, and punctuation errors.For this service, I charge a flat fee of $80* plus $0.005 per word (e.g. $80 + $300 for 60,000 words, $80 + $500 for 100,000 words, etc.).

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Efficient Light Stylistic + Copy Editing

By combining stylistic and copy editing, I’ll polish your text at the sentence level!For this service, I charge a flat fee of $80* plus $0.008 per word (e.g. $80 + $480 for 60,000 words, $80 + $800 for 100,000 words, etc.).

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Efficient Light Proofreading

I will do one light proofreading pass, polishing either your book’s final print layout or a raw text file by scanning every word for typos, punctuation errors, and major grammatical errors. If you provide a style sheet, I’ll check for inconsistent spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and formatting errors. I’ll use a light hand when making edits to minimize the risk of introducing new errors, ensuring your work is polished and ready to publish.For this service, I charge a flat fee of $60* plus $0.004 per word (e.g. $60 + $240 for 60,000 words, $60 + $400 for 100,000 words, etc.).

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Budget Publishing Package

Would you rather spend your time writing instead of worrying about formatting and proofreading? If your manuscript is nearly ready, let me handle the rest so you can hit Publish with confidence!First, I will do one light copy editing pass. After you go through my edits and suggestions, I will format your manuscript into both a print book and an eBook. Then, I will do one light proofreading pass, noting any changes on both the designed document and the original text document.For this service, I charge a flat fee of $80* plus $0.01 per word (e.g. $80 + $600 for 60,000 words, $80 + $1000 for 100,000 words, etc.).

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*The one-time fee applies only once per manuscript. If I’ve previously edited a project in the same series, the fee will be reduced to $40. If I’ve already worked on the manuscript in any capacity, the flat fee will be waived.

Authenticity & Sensitivity Reading

I have no issues working with sensitive or controversial topics.I’ll assume any role you need: a potential reader (target audience), a parent screening materials before their children read them, a critical reader who’ll test your claims of having written a diverse and inclusive story, and so on. In a clear, constructive, and judgment-free way, I’ll highlight and explain any areas of concern.This step is separate from other editorial services but can be combined with manuscript assessment, structural editing, or copy editing for a discounted price.Please reach out and explain your needs! If I’m not the right fit for your project, I’ll try to help you find someone who is.

The price will vary depending on the project and the circumstances, but will generally start at $0.005 per word (e.g. $300 for 60,000 words, $500 for 100,000 words, etc.).

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My name is Lily Omidi. L.O. Ello. Get it now? Well, look—you're the writer, okay?All kidding aside, I'd love to work with you!

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About

Hello! I'm Lily Omidi, a professional editor and proofreader.

I’m confident that I can help you:

• maintain consistency in facts, voice, and vocabulary;

• enhance your prose and dialogue; and

• elevate your writing to professional standards.

In October 2023, I earned a Professional Editing Standards Certificate from Queen's University, an intensive program based on Editors Canada’s Professional Editorial Standards. I’m on Editors Toronto’s Executive Committee, I’m a webinar host for Editors Canada, and I’m a member of the LGBTQ+ Editors Association.I’m proficient in both American and Canadian English, and I’m capable of editing passages in French. Above all, I’m passionate about helping indie authors elevate their manuscripts to publishing industry standards. I can’t promise perfection—no editor can!—but I’m a hard worker, and I genuinely respect writers. If I accept your project, it’s because I’m confident I can provide significant value.

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Pricing

I quote prices based on the estimated minimum time required, but I’m very flexible. I can work within a set budget to the best of my ability, on a payment plan, or even on a chapter-by-chapter basis.If you think I may be a good fit for your project, please get in touch with any questions to discuss the details.Regardless of your needs or budget, I’m confident in my ability to deliver great value!

Currencies and payments

All listed prices are in US Dollars. I also accept the equivalent value of Canadian Dollars at the going exchange rate without a currency conversion fee. I accept CAD via Interac e-Transfer and USD via PayPal or Wise.You may cancel our contract at any time while I’m still working on your project, without penalty. I’ll refund you for any work not yet completed and provide you with all the work done up to that point. This is not a standard clause; this is my promise to work effectively and efficiently, to protect you as a client, and to ensure your satisfaction.Half of the quoted price is due upfront, with the remaining balance due upon completion. Please note that payments are non-refundable once services are rendered.

Free Sample Edit!

Because I’m eager to connect with independent authors, I’m offering a free sample edit of your project. Please contact me with a description of your project and editorial needs. If we find common ground, I’ll edit up to 1,000 words of your manuscript. Once this sample edit is completed, I’ll give you a price estimate for the service, and you can decide whether to pursue working with me.For stylistic editing, copy editing, and proofreading, send me a 1,000-word excerpt from your manuscript. (I encourage you to send the same excerpt to other editors. This will allow you to compare editors’ skills and editing style.)For manuscript assessments and structural editing, please send me an excerpt of at least 3,000 words.Note: This offer applies to long-form projects (40,000+ words). For shorter works or other projects like graphic novels, please contact me and provide details about your project.

Professional Development

University courses

Professional Editing Standards Certificate - Queen's University

Publishing certificate - Toronto Metropolitan University

Webinars

Books: Structural Editing & Writing*

Books: Grammar & Editing*

*The links for these books are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.

Levels of Editing

I base my definitions on Editors Canada's Professional Editorial Standards, which apply to both fiction and nonfiction.The standard editing process generally follows this order: structural editing, stylistic editing (which may be combined with structural or copy editing), copy editing, then proofreading.

• Structural Editing
• Stylistic Editing
• Copy Editing
• Proofreading

Structural Editing

Worried about gaping plot holes? Re-reading your manuscript so often that the words are starting to blur together? My Structural Editing service looks at the big picture of your manuscript. I’ll help you see your work through fresh eyes, ensuring it’s organized, engaging, and strong from beginning to end.I’m particularly familiar with the themes and conventions found in speculative fiction (sci-fi, fantasy, dystopian), crime fiction, thrillers, contemporary fiction, queer fiction, narrative nonfiction, and children’s & young adult fiction. As the (presumably!) first editor working on your project, I’ll help set you up for success.

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Stylistic Editing

Dialogue missing some zip? Clunky sentences dragging down your paragraphs? Struggling to keep your tone just right? Whether you’re writing for children, enthusiasts, or a general audience, I’ll adjust the language level and ensure your desired tone stays intact.My Stylistic Editing service includes resolving major grammatical and punctuation errors (for example, I would add a space after a comma), but not enforcing style decisions (for example, I wouldn’t delete or add a serial comma), unless combined with copy editing.I’ll recast sentences as needed for improved clarity, flow, and meaning, working with you to fine-tune your language without changing your unique voice.

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Copy Editing

An essential step for all written content, good copy editing elevates your writing, preparing it for publication.My Copy Editing service focuses on resolving typographical, grammatical, and punctuation errors, as well as ensuring consistency. I’ll confirm names, dates, and other basic details are accurate, performing basic online checks as needed. For web content, I also check for broken links and verify proper use of ALT text.Whether I’m fixing tricky dialogue punctuation or ensuring consistent terminology across your epic fantasy series, I’ll polish your writing to meet publishing industry standards.

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Proofreading

Give your published book a professional sheen! If you’ve invested in a custom-designed book interior, my meticulous Proofreading service will fine-tune the layout, checking for accuracy and polishing every element. I’ll review your designed PDF file, annotate it using Adobe Acrobat, and compare the final layout to the original manuscript to catch any missing text and inconsistencies.
I specialize in proofreading print book interiors, but I also proofread various print materials, including fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels (like comics and OEL manga), magazines, and marketing materials.I can also review eBooks for indexing issues, scan for typos, and check for formatting errors. Whether your eBook was coded from scratch or converted with software, I can test it on devices like a 6" e-reader and a 10" tablet.

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