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Read MoreBehind the Edit - May 3, 2026
How to Choose a Fiction Editor 7 Questions to Ask (+ Red Flags)
Finding the right editor can make or break your manuscript. Whether you’re a first-time novelist or you’ve been at this for years, understanding how to choose a fiction editor is one of the most important steps in the publishing process. A strong editor won’t just tidy up your grammar—they’ll help you sharpen your storytelling, deepen your characters, and bring clarity to your voice.
The tricky part? There’s no shortage of editors out there, all offering slightly different services, price points, and approaches. It can feel a bit overwhelming trying to figure out who’s actually the right fit for your work.
That’s where this guide comes in. Below, we’ll walk through seven key questions you should ask before hiring a fiction editor, along with a few red flags to keep an eye out for. Think of it as a practical, no-nonsense way to make a confident, informed decision.
What Type of Editing Do You Need?
Before reaching out to editors, it’s important to pause and consider what your manuscript truly needs. Many writers stumble not because they’ve picked a bad editor, but because they’ve chosen the wrong type of editing for their project.
What Is the Editor’s Experience with Fiction?
Editing fiction isn’t quite the same as editing a corporate report or an academic essay. It’s as much about storytelling as it is about technical accuracy. That’s why it’s so important to choose someone who genuinely understands fiction.
Ideally, your editor should have experience working with novels, short stories, or other narrative forms—and even better if they’ve worked within your specific genre. Genre knowledge matters more than you might think. A thriller editor, for example, will instinctively understand pacing and tension, while a romance editor will be tuned into emotional beats and relationship dynamics.
It’s worth asking what kinds of projects they’ve worked on in the past. Have they edited published books? Do they have a portfolio or testimonials from fiction authors? If they can point you towards titles they’ve worked on, take a bit of time to check them out.
That said, don’t get too caught up in years of experience alone. Someone newer to the field can still be excellent if they’ve had solid training and a clear focus on fiction. What you’re really looking for is evidence that they “get” storytelling—and can help you tell yours better.
Renée Smith
Founder & Editor
Hi, I'm Renée! I'm a professional editor and proofreader based in Sydney, Australia. I work with indie authors and publishers to transform manuscripts into polished, professional books through comprehensive fiction editing and formatting. As someone passionate about empowering authors, I love sharing insights from the editorial trenches. Through Behind the Edit, I'll regularly post practical advice on writing craft, editing, and the indie publishing journey. New posts added regularly. Enjoy!
Can You See a Sample Edit?
If there’s one step you shouldn’t skip, it’s this one.
A sample edit gives you a real sense of what it’s like to work with a particular editor. It’s not just about whether they pick up errors—it’s about how they engage with your writing.
When you receive a sample edit, take your time going through it. Do their suggestions make sense? Are they improving clarity and flow? Just as importantly, are they respecting your voice, or does it feel like they’re rewriting the piece to sound like someone else?
Good editing should feel like a collaboration. You want someone who can see what you’re trying to do and help you do it better—not bulldoze your style in the process.
Also pay attention to their comments. Are they thoughtful and constructive? Do they explain why they’ve suggested a change? The best editors don’t just fix problems—they help you understand them so you can grow as a writer.
If an editor doesn’t offer sample edits at all, it’s worth asking why. While not everyone provides free samples, most professionals are happy to show you a small example of their work, even if it’s paid.
What Is Their Editing Process?
Every editor has their own way of working, and understanding that process upfront can save you a lot of headaches later.
Some editors provide a detailed editorial report alongside in-text comments. Others focus more heavily on tracked changes within the manuscript itself. Ideally, you’ll want a mix—especially for developmental or line editing—so you get both big-picture insights and specific, actionable suggestions.
It’s also worth asking how many passes they’ll make through your manuscript. Will they review your revisions after the initial edit? Are follow-up questions included, or charged separately?
Another thing to consider is how structured their workflow is. Do they have clear timelines? Do they set expectations around delivery dates and feedback? A well-organised process is usually a sign of a seasoned professional.
And while it might be tempting to rush things, a thorough edit takes time. If someone promises a lightning-fast turnaround for a full manuscript, it’s fair to question how in-depth that edit will actually be.
What Are Their Rates and Turnaround Times?
Let’s talk about money—because it’s a big part of the decision.
Editing can be a significant investment, and prices vary widely depending on the level of editing, the editor’s experience, and the complexity of your manuscript. Developmental editing tends to sit at the higher end, while proofreading is generally more affordable.
It’s natural to want to find a good deal, but be cautious of rates that seem unusually low. In many cases, this can indicate a lack of experience or an editor taking on too much work to make ends meet—which can impact quality.
On the flip side, a high price tag doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting the best. That’s why it’s important to weigh cost alongside sample edits, testimonials, and overall fit.
Make sure everything is clearly outlined before you commit. What exactly is included in the fee? Are there additional costs for revisions or follow-up questions? And how long will the edit take?
Having these details locked in upfront helps avoid awkward conversations later on—and ensures everyone’s on the same page.
How Do They Communicate with Clients?
You’ll be working fairly closely with your editor, so communication matters more than you might expect.
Often, you can get a feel for this right from your first interaction. Do they reply in a reasonable timeframe? Are their responses clear and helpful? Do they actually address your questions, or do they feel a bit vague?
Some editors offer video calls or phone chats, while others stick to email. Neither is right or wrong—it really comes down to what you’re comfortable with. What matters most is that communication is consistent and respectful.
Editing can be a vulnerable process. You’re handing over something you’ve spent a lot of time (and probably emotional energy) creating. A good editor understands that and delivers feedback in a way that’s honest but constructive—not dismissive or overly harsh.
You want someone who feels like a partner in the process. Someone who challenges your work in the right ways, while still respecting your vision.
Do They Provide Testimonials or References?
At some point, it helps to hear from other writers who’ve been in your shoes.
Testimonials and reviews can give you a clearer picture of what it’s actually like to work with an editor. Look for feedback that goes beyond generic praise—comments that mention specific strengths like attention to detail, communication, or the ability to improve story structure.
If testimonials aren’t readily available, it’s perfectly reasonable to ask for references. A professional editor should be comfortable sharing past client experiences or pointing you towards work they’ve done.
Another good sign? Repeat clients. If writers keep coming back to the same editor, it usually means they’ve had a positive experience and trust the quality of the work.
Doing a bit of background checking might take extra time, but it can save you from making a costly mistake.
Read What Authors Have to Say About RS Editorial Services
Red Flags to Watch Out For
No contract or unclear terms of service
A contract protects both you and the editor. Without it, you risk misunderstandings about scope, deadlines, payment, or what happens if issues arise. Clear terms ensure everyone is on the same page.
Promises to “guarantee bestseller status”
No editor can promise commercial success. Any guarantee like this is unrealistic and often a marketing tactic. Editing improves your manuscript, but it cannot control market trends or readers’ responses.
No sample edits or portfolio to review
Seeing past work is crucial to assess the editor’s skill, style, and compatibility with your voice. If an editor can’t provide examples, you have no way of knowing if they can actually improve your manuscript.
Slow or inconsistent communication
Editing is a collaborative process. Delayed responses or poor communication can create frustration, missed deadlines, and unclear feedback. Reliability is as important as skill.
Overly harsh or dismissive feedback
Editing should guide and improve your work, not discourage you. Feedback that is insulting, dismissive, or overly critical can harm your confidence and stall your progress. Constructive, clear critiques are essential.
Little to no experience with your genre
Each genre has its own conventions, pacing, and audience expectations. An editor unfamiliar with your genre might miss key issues or suggest changes that don’t fit, potentially weakening your story.
Time to Find Your Editor
Learning how to choose a fiction editor is a crucial step in turning your manuscript into a polished, publishable book. The right editor won’t just fix what’s on the page—they’ll help you become a stronger, more confident writer.
By taking the time to ask the right questions, review sample edits, and watch for potential red flags, you’ll be in a much better position to find someone who truly understands your work.
There’s no need to rush the decision. Do your research, trust your instincts, and choose an editor who feels like a genuine partner in your writing journey.
Ready to move forward?
Start reaching out, request a few sample edits, and take that next step towards bringing your story to life.
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