Line & Copy Editor Needed for 54K-Word Literary Novel (Historical / Contemporary Hybrid)

Project Overview I’ve completed a 53,800-word literary manuscript titled Pioneers Again: The American Awakening. The book is structurally and thematically complete — now I need a precise line and copy edit to polish rhythm, tighten prose, and ensure technical consistency while protecting the established voice. This is not a developmental rewrite. I’m looking for a meticulous editor who understands cadence, restraint, and tonal integrity — someone who can elevate clarity without flattening the texture of the writing About the Manuscript •Genre: Literary / historical realism with modern parallels • Length: ~53,800 words • Tone & Style: Multi-generational, reflective, and documentary in feel — think Steinbeck’s empathy meets McCarthy’s precision • Structure: Three-part timeline spanning 1870s → 1930s → modern day (2020s) • Voice Priority: Maintain rhythm, gravity, and warmth — no over-correction toward “commercial” tone Editing Goals • Smooth sentence flow and tighten redundant phrasing • Copyedit for grammar, punctuation, and consistency • Light attention to historical diction accuracy • Verify continuity of names, timelines, and institutional lineages (Hartwell / Delaney / Williams families) • Ensure consistent formatting for journal entries, letters, and appendix evidence • Provide a concise editorial summary (1–2 pages) of continuity or rhythm notes Editing Goals • Smooth sentence flow and tighten redundant phrasing • Copyedit for grammar, punctuation, and consistency • Light attention to historical diction accuracy • Verify continuity of names, timelines, and institutional lineages (Hartwell / Delaney / Williams families) • Ensure consistent formatting for journal entries, letters, and appendix evidence • Provide a concise editorial summary (1–2 pages) of continuity or rhythm notes Ideal Editor • Background in literary or historical fiction (please share titles or samples) • Strong ear for prose rhythm and subtext • Comfortable with multi-era storytelling • Able to preserve author’s unique voice — polish, not rewrite • Communicative and punctual Deliverables • Word document with tracked changes • Clean version for final review • Brief editorial memo outlining key decisions Sample Test (Required) Please edit a 1-page excerpt (I’ll provide one historical and one modern paragraph) to demonstrate your approach to rhythm and restraint. Budget & Timeline • Budget: $1,000 – $1,400 total (≈ $0.02 – $0.025 per word, depending on experience) • Timeline: 2–3 weeks from start date To Apply Please include: 1. Your experience with literary or historical fiction. 2. Before/after sample of your line editing (if available). 3. A note on how you preserve an author’s voice. Apply tot his job