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“I’m honored, Arlene, to have your sharp editorial eye go over my book, The Self-Publishing Manual. Even though it’s been in print for many years, you caught errors that everyone else had overlooked. I want a picky copy editor, and you are careful, precise, and accurate.

“You have a rare gift for catching even the smallest of mistakes (I would rather you find them than my readers!), and your suggestions for improvement are invaluable. You approach editing with passion and complete the job promptly. Now I’m eager to see the next edition of my book go to press. I appreciate you and your work immensely.”

— Dan Poynter

The Self-Publishing Manual, 16th Edition

“The revisions are going well, and I’m so happy with the terrific job you’ve done. I love your notes, comments, and edits―they really nail the issues. Some of your observations make me think, ‘How did I even make this mistake?’ Your ability to recraft sentences and paragraphs is stellar. I am thoroughly impressed.

“I’m sure I’m not the first nor the last who’ll praise your editorial talent. The work you’ve done is amazing. It feels as if I’m reading someone else’s work, yet know that it is mine―only a professional version of mine!”

— Rashad Pharaon

When Kings Fall

2013

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Authors Need Editors. Whether you’re self-publishing or seeking an agent, whether you’re writing a novel, a memoir, a nonfiction book on any subject, or just about anything that’s going to be published, engaging a freelance editor is an important part of your editorial process. It is one of the best artistic and business decisions you will make in your journey to publication.  

Working closely with you during the editing process, I offer:

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  • Clarity, conciseness, consistency, and polish in your final edited manuscript
  • A worry-free, professional, extremely thorough editorial process
  • Value for your money
  • Competitiveness for your book or manuscript in today’s market
  • Practical industry advice on self-publishing or advice for agent submissions
  • An assessment of the different levels of editing you may need: structural, substantive, stylistic, copy editing, and/or proofreading
  • A promise that your words will communicate your message to your intended audience with style, impact, and individuality
  • And for fiction, I will advise you in all the key elements including plot, characterization, dialogue, point of view, pacing, tension, conflict, scene-building, suspense building, and all other aspects of good fiction (including, of course, correct grammar)
 
arlene Arlene Prunkl
Freelance editor
Editors Need Authors. Without you, editors wouldn’t exist. I’m Arlene Prunkl. In editing, as in every aspect of my life, I am both a classicist and a romantic. I value structure, substance, style, and creativity equally. I’m passionate about my work as a freelance editor and an ardent advocate of good English language usage. I’m always seeking to combine my skills and philosophy with those of authors who have a similar dedication to excellence in writing. I offer the highest calibre of editorial services.

I’ve been a freelance editor since 2002. I’ve edited over 170 books on a huge variety of subjects, both fiction and nonfiction, for authors worldwide. I specialize in working with first-time self-publishing authors, and I’ll also guide and advise you if you’re seeking an agent and a traditional publisher.

The book-publishing business—and self-publishing in particular—can seem like a complex undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be. With my editorial expertise, guidance, and gentle advice, you’ll find it a hassle-free and rewarding experience. I’ll help you avoid costly pitfalls and delays, ensuring that you’ll enjoy your journey on the road to either self-publishing or traditionally publishing your book. Together, we’ll make your book the very best it can be.

Welcome!—to my world of words.
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