Grey Duck can help make your book proposals, book and article manuscripts, and job documents clearer, stronger, and more engaging. Below are a few services I offer, but I can create bespoke plans based on your needs.
Manuscript Development
4¢ per word for books, $500-900 for articles
Struggling to develop a book, article, or chapter draft into a publishable manuscript?
We’ll meet to discuss your work and where your writing challenges lie. I’ll read the full manuscript and write a report where I lay out suggestions for major revisions. I’ll focus on strengthening arguments and evidence, developing a solid through-line and a coherent structure, and writing in an engaging style. We’ll follow up with another meeting to talk through revision plans.
Project Audit
$250-400
Beginning a project but not sure where to go next?
I’ll work with you to tease out fruitful avenues for further research and analysis based on a book proposal, project abstract, or conference paper proposal. We’ll meet briefly to discuss your project, then I’ll take time to read your proposal and return it to you with comments and suggestions. A follow-up meeting helps you decide what steps to take next.
Editing for Style
6¢ per word
Know you have a great idea but it’s not coming through in your writing?
A mentor once told me I write with economy, and I think she meant it as a compliment. In any case, with this service, I’ll edit a shorter piece of writing for style, focusing on making clear sentences, accessible paragraphs, and straightforward organization that still keeps your readers engaged. We’ll meet to discuss my revisions and how you can continue writing in a way that helps your ideas shine.
In addition to these services, I am available to develop and edit job application materials, including CVs, cover letters, research statements, teaching statements, and syllabi.
My goal is to work with you collaboratively, through a combination of written comments and meetings on video conferencing platforms. For writers who prefer oral feedback, we can discuss an editing plan that incorporates more one-on-one meetings and conversations. I always find that talking through my writing helps me more than any other form of feedback, so I love thinking about creative ways to help my clients.
A note on pricing: these are ballpark figures for a few main services, but every project is different. I will quote a price for you once we’ve agreed on the project parameters. You are not obligated to move forward with the project once you receive the quote.
