So last Monday I proclaimed that I would have my WIP complete by today. Well, unfortunately that didn't happen, but I am VERY close--only 2-3 chapters left. Which is why I chose this photo for today. I can see the finish line, but I'm not there yet. Hopefully my Wednesday post will declare completion.
And then revisions begin. I realized halfway through that I wanted to go a different direction in a pretty important subplot. I made notes throughout the first half and so now I have to correct those issues. Once those are complete that draft will be draft 2 (though technically draft 4 as I've revised a bit already).
But I need opinions on something. I plan to revise wide and zoom in, likely ending with 6 drafts before I would consider the WIP polished. I will probably send the full to my CPs and betas once the draft 2 mentioned above is complete. Okay, now on to the question. I'm considering having a freelance editor read the final version prior to submission.
Is that wise? Anyone ever used an editor? Are they a waste of $ considering I have CPs and betas? And lastly, would I get the most for my money if I sent to the editor before polishing? I send to CPs before polishing b/c I could be polishing scenes that will just be cut once I receive their comments. Should I use the same line of thinking with an editor?
Many thanks for any opinions you can offer.
M.B.
This is a good question, but I'm afraid I don't have a good answer. I've considered it before, but I haven't done it. Good luck in the last lap!
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't sell yourself and your crits and betas short. If you plan on revising it enough, then it will surely shine with all the skills involved! I Would put that decision on the back burner for a little while. Can't say yes or no, as I have never used one, but give everyone a chance to make it shine for free before you spend the money is my advice! (and you can win edits from editors around the blogs from time to time, so keep an eye out for those contests!)
ReplyDeleteThanks Erin!
ReplyDeleteColene - Yeah, I think I agree with you. I"m a pretty strong editor (required for the day job) and my CPs are absolutely fantastic. I'll see how it shakes out. :)
Hey Mel! The same thought has actually crossed my mind! Not that I don't totally trust you and Amanda and my betas, but it would be nice to have the opinion of someone who is totally impartial and industry experience. I am curious who you were thinking of approaching! We should chat about it via email :-) Also, way to go re: finishing! I got BIAM and I am determined to finish this draft by the end of March, since I already had a headstart!
ReplyDeleteI've never used a freelance editor. I have my critique group and other writers I know help me. Although, I have submitted first pages and chapters for critiques by agents and editors at conferences. I think their feedback is so valuable. I don't know if you have any conferences coming up in your area, but that is an inexpensive alternative.
ReplyDeleteI've actually had experience with both. I hired a freelance editor and she was great. For me, it was well worth the money and I snagged an agent with that novel -- I'm not sure if it was because of the hired help or not. Can't really say.
ReplyDeleteHowever, with my current novel, I won't go that route because of the strength of my betas and critique partners. In my opinion, your CPs and betas know your writing better and what you are capable of.
Plus, the editing advice you receive from a freelance editor, while good, is just another opinion - "professional" you may argue but still just another opinion that may get overridden by your agent and publishing house editor.
Laura - :)being we already discussed via email.
ReplyDeleteKelly - I would love to do a conference crit session. Maybe I can try for the summer conference here.
Karen - Can you message me who you used? I adore my CPs and betas so the decision would not be based upon anything they're lacking for sure.