An editor fulfills an important role for an independent author, providing an objective second pair of eyes on a manuscript that the writer cannot help getting too close to. And there are all sorts of editors available through a variety of sources. Some focus on content, some on copy-editing while others will take you all the way through the formatting process. Editors can be expensive, but consider them a business investment that will bring your book to the next level. An editor provides clarity and a new reader’s perspective on reading your book.

For my latest book, I hired Dyane Forde of Christian Creative Nexus primarily as that objective second pair of eyes. Dyane and I had a previous relationship as writers under the Breakwater Harbor Books cooperative imprint. I knew she would be professional, caring and not avoid dealing with my weaknesses.

Her turnaround time was quick – less…