Editing and manuscript services

I provide the following services for writers:

Manuscript assessment: feedback on a manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses — elements such as characters, plot, structure, setting, prose, marketability.

Line (copy) editing: a line-by-line edit to improve the prose without detracting from the writer’s style.

Proofreading: a thorough examination of a manuscript that is ready for publication to detect literal errors.

For businesses: I can write copy, and edit and proofread copy for print and online. Fees applicable on a case-by-case basis.

Procedure:

* I require material to be provided in .doc or .docx format and provide edits using Microsoft Word’s track changes and comment features. Ideally the material will be in standard manuscript format, creative requirements notwithstanding.

* I will ask for a sample of your work to see if it is something I can help you with.

* If so, I will send you a sample edit so you can decide if my work meets your expectations. I will also provide a quote and time frame for completion.

* On acceptance of my offer, I’ll invoice you. PayPal and direct deposit are preferred. Work begins once payment has been received.

Fees:

Depending on the task, size and complexity, my fee would range from about $0.01 up to $0.02 per word.

Experience:

I bring to the table:

30+ years of experience as a newspaper journalist, much of it as a sub-editor charged with improving copy;

an MA (QUT) and a PhD (UQ) in creative writing;

proofreading for Pan Macmillan’s digital imprint Momentum;

proofing and testing of online learning courses for Omni Asia Pacific;

editing and proofing of client materials for News Custom Publishing;

manuscript appraisals for Magabala Books, State Library of Queensland’s black&write! program, and Pulp Fiction Press;

mentoring for the Australian Horror Writers Association;

five years as the editor of Writing Queensland;

reviewing books for metropolitan daily newspapers;

peer reviews of academic papers for the Australian Association of Writing Programs and Fafnir journal;

my own experience as the author of four novels and more than twenty short stories, which includes having worked with professional editors and much critique work with several accomplished writers groups.

For further information about me, please see my biography page.

Endorsements

I’d be reluctant to publish anything without Jason’s keen eye running over my manuscript. He has been thorough and timely with proofreading work undertaken. With Jason’s proofreading of my work, I can be confident that the grammar is correct, my word choices have been vouchsafed and that everything is at it should be.
Donna Maree Hanson, donnamareehanson.com

I have had the benefit of Jason Nahrung’s editing assistance across three projects. He is an exceptional professional to work with. His eye for detail applies not only to grammar and flow/pacing fixes, but extends to narrative and character depiction, and to the opportunity to shift a plot or scene point to maximum effect. I highly recommend Jason as an editor who is skilled, professional and easy to work with.
Pete Aldin, petealdin.com

While working with Jason at Momentum, he always delivered professional, high-quality work on time.
Tara Goedjen, Momentum editor

Working with Jason has not only improved the quality of the manuscripts I have sent him, but has made the quality of my writing better as I’ve incorporated his feedback into first-draft writing. His quick turnaround and incisive gaze make working with him exceptionally easy, and removes so much of the stress from the process of publishing a book.
Alice Boer, abendacott.com