Non-fiction book (Section One – c.12,000 words)
Project overview
I am working on a non-fiction book about Ambition — what it is, how it operates psychologically and socially, how it shapes our lives and societies, and how we can relate to it more consciously.
This job is for Section One only (approx. 12,000 words). I plan to publish this section first, so this is a contained, real publication, not a speculative draft.
The manuscript is complete, structurally sound, and has been through multiple self-edits. I am now looking for a professional copy edit to sharpen clarity, flow and consistency, while preserving the author’s voice.
Type of editing required
This is not a heavy developmental edit and not a mechanical proofread only.
I am looking for a thoughtful copy edit / line edit, focused on:
Clarity of expression
Sentence flow and rhythm
Logical continuity and signposting
Repetition or over-complexity
Consistency of tone, terminology and concepts
Grammar, punctuation and readability
Please do not:
Rewrite in your own voice
Simplify ideas excessively
Over-polish into something generic
This book relies on a conversational, reflective tone with moments of intensity and restraint. The voice matters.
Audience & tone
The book is aimed at a general but thoughtful audience (not academics, not founders only).
Tone:
Intelligent but accessible
Reflective, not preachy
Serious, but human
Calm authority rather than instruction
Comparable authors (tone, not content):
Viktor Frankl, Oliver Burkeman, Alain de Botton, early Malcolm Gladwell (lighter touch).
What success looks like
A successful edit will result in:
Cleaner, more confident prose
Improved pacing and flow across sections
Stronger bridges where ideas move from one to the next
Fewer distractions from the argument
The author’s voice clearly intact
The goal is that the reader feels guided, not managed.
Deliverables
Edited manuscript in Microsoft Word
Changes tracked (Track Changes ON)
Light margin comments only where helpful (e.g. clarity issues, repetition, suggested cuts)
No style sheet required at this stage unless you believe one would materially help.
Practical details
Word count: ~12,000
Timeline: Flexible (2–4 weeks ideal)
Budget: Open to discussion, but looking for cost-effective professional support, not agency pricing
I am happy to:
Start with a paid sample edit (500–1,000 words)
Break the work into milestones if helpful
About the author
I am an experienced writer and business professional, working seriously toward publication. This is not my first long-form project, and I value a collaborative, respectful editing relationship.
There will be further sections after this one, so this may become ongoing work if the fit is right.
How to respond
Please include:
Your experience with non-fiction books
Your approach to copy editing (in brief)
Your estimated cost for this project
Whether you recommend a paid sample edit