After the editorial letter: The editor's perspective

Authors: I’m going to let you in on a little secret.

You know how nervous you are when you receive the email with your editorial letter attached? Your editor is nervous, too!

When I sign up a book or series, it’s because I love it. It may need work, but I believe the book should exist in the world. Of course, I’ll usually have notes and comments on things that can make the book even better. That’s where the edit letter comes in.

When a first draft comes in, I read the manuscript at least twice before sending my edit letter. My first read is cold. I only comment if something seems particularly hard to follow or confusing. My second read is when I take what I know of the manuscript and get deep into any issues that need to be addressed.

Then, as I begin to write my edit letter, the draft essentially gets a third read as I go through and make sure that I cover everything, so the author is fully prepared for their revision. Writing up an edit letter takes time and I carefully chose my words when describing any problem areas or comments that I think the author might have issue with. In the end, even if I write a very long edit letter, I want the author to know that I still love their book.

So what’s so scary about hitting the send button?

I know how dear manuscripts are to authors. Chances are by the time you’re receiving an edit letter from an editor, you’ve revised several times before signing with an agent and then gone through a round or two with them before the manuscript was bought. The thought of more revisions or being told that one of your favorite parts of your book isn't working isn't that appealing. Editors know that, but please know that we are helping you make your book great.

Here’s my one request to all authors out there. When that email comes, take your time. Read it. Think it over. Look at all the notes and let it settle before you pick up the phone. I know your instinct might be to immediately call your editor and defend everything she's asked you to change or cut, but take the time to let it sink in. If there are any issues that you are truly concerned about, talk to your agent. See what they think.

I have a tendency to send my edit letters at the end of the day or on a Friday to give the author time to think. I'm always happy to have a phone call to talk through the letter and any changes that might be difficult, but it's good to let both of us breathe before diving right back in. Often, some of the best fixes come from the calls I've had with my authors post-edit letter.

So authors, as nervous as you may feel opening that email, know that your editor is on the other side nervously awaiting your reaction. In the end, you both want what's best for your book.