At this stage, the aim isn’t to reshape the story or question the plot. Instead, it’s about strengthening your language sentence by sentence, so your voice is clear, confident and unobscured by avoidable distractions.
What does a copy edit involve?
A copy edit examines the manuscript at a technical and stylistic level, addressing issues such as:
- Grammar, spelling and punctuation
- Overlong or unclear sentences
- Repetition and word overuse
- Dialogue formatting and readability
- Correct, consistent usage (I can provide copy edits in UK, US, Canadian or Australian style)
- Continuity of character names, timelines and world details
- Inconsistencies in formatting, styling and layout
- Appropriate use of capitals, italics, bold and emphasis
It’s meticulous, steady work that ensures the prose reads cleanly and maintains a consistent standard throughout the manuscript.
What a copy edit does not cover
A copy edit doesn’t address plot logic, character development or structural issues — those belong to the earlier stages of the editorial process, such as a Reader’s Report, Editorial Assessment or Developmental Edit.
Likewise, it doesn’t rewrite your prose or change your tone. The goal is to refine your style, not overwrite it.
Deliverables: what you’ll receive
A copy edit will take place on Microsoft Word using the Track Changes software. If this is a feature you are not familiar with, please let me know at the outset of your enquiry.
Your edited manuscript will be returned with:
- Tracked Changes showing every correction and adjustment
- Margin comments where clarification, alternatives or questions are needed
- A Style Sheet detailing character, place details, timeline information, spelling and style choices
- A smoother, more polished reading experience
- Enhanced clarity and consistency across the entire text
After the copy edit
You remain in full control of your manuscript. You can accept, decline or adapt each suggested change during your review. Once the copy edit is complete, your next step is usually proofreading, which provides a final quality check before the manuscript goes to print or upload.
Why this stage matters in crime and thriller fiction
In crime, suspense and thriller writing, clarity and precision are everything. Readers notice inconsistencies. They spot contradictions, timeline slips and duplicated details. A strong copy edit keeps your readers locked into the story itself — not distracted by errors, formatting issues or uneven prose.
It ensures the final manuscript reads with the pace, sharpness and confidence your genre demands.
How much does it cost? How long does it take? Do you have availability?
Each one of my quotations is bespoke, as I tailor each package to each author’s needs. So if you’re interested, do get in touch either via the contact form or email info@rebeccamillareditorial.com for a no-obligation quotation. I’d love to hear more about your project and discuss how we can work together.
