Interview with the Editor

If I recall, it was 2015. I was in grad school at Bowling Green State University, working on my Masters. I was also working on the first version of A Shrouded Spark. As I was working with Archway Publishing, they offered editing services for upwards of $2000. As a grad student, there was no way that I could come up with that money. Instead, I sought out other options.

I went online, researching editors and the typical price ranges. I was hesitant to choose someone hastily, especially a stranger who wasn’t invested in my cause and purpose.

My roommate at the time, Jay, suggested that I send an inquiry through the writing commons. I felt apprehensive about putting my book in the hands of a stranger, but Jay assured me that she knew someone who knew someone that could help me. Fast forward a few days, and I get an email from someone named Naomi N. It was very professional and to the point. We planned to meet in the coming weeks.

We met at a coffee shop in Bowling Green called Grounds for Thought. They’re well known in the city for their wide variety of coffee, tasty drinks, and sweet treats. I found Naomi at a table in the front of the shop. She greeted me with a polite smile and we chatted for a bit about the project, her prices, and a proposed timeline. It was all extremely professional.

I printed the manuscript, delivered it to her, and waited. Patiently. Nervously. I waited.

When the manuscript came back to...Read More