Fiction · Non-fiction · Academic

Precision in the draft.

Thoughtful editing for stronger stories. Developmental editing, copy editing and proofreading from an editor who's also a writer.

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Faith Jacobson

About the editor

Hi, I'm Faith.

I'm an anthropologist by training, with a master's degree in Anthropology from Binghamton University. Years of academic work gave me hands-on training in copy editing and proofreading, and studying culture gave me a unique eye for worldbuilding, cultural authenticity and the complexities of human behaviour.

I've spent the last decade editing fiction for authors in my circle, and I've since added formal training: a Book Editor Certificate from IAP College, a range of editing courses, and an intensive one-on-one mentorship with Danyelle Briggs of In The Write Dyrection. I keep learning through the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA).

I'm an author too, so I know the stress and nerves that go into finishing a book. I want to be your biggest cheerleader.

I live in Calgary, Alberta with my husband and three cats. One is an orange named Shrimp Toast, and I'm really proud of that name.

  • MA, Anthropology
  • Book Editor Certificate, IAP College
  • 10+ years editing fiction
  • Based in Calgary

Why work with me

An anthropologist's eye for your world.

Worldbuilding that holds up

Cultures, customs and societies that feel lived-in, whether your story is set in Calgary or on another planet.

Characters who act like people

Motivations, relationships and behaviour that ring true, so readers believe every choice.

Clean, consistent prose

Grammar, style and continuity polished so nothing pulls a reader out of the story.

Services & pricing

Editing for every stage.

Developmental editing

$0.013 / word
e.g. 50,000 words = $500

The big picture: plot, pacing, structure, character arcs and worldbuilding, with a detailed editorial letter and notes in your manuscript.

Copy editing

$0.01 / word
e.g. 50,000 words = $500

Line by line: grammar, clarity, consistency and style, so your prose reads smoothly while still sounding like you.

Bundle: developmental + copy

$0.015 / word
e.g. 50,000 words = $750 (save $250)

Both rounds, start to finish, at a discount. Best if you're taking a draft all the way to publishing.

Proofreading

Flat rate
Up to 10,000 words$25
10,001 to 50,000 words$50
50,001 to 100,000 words$100
Over 100,000 words$150

Prices are in USD. Canadian authors pay the same numbers in CAD.

How it works

It starts with a sample edit.

  1. Send a sample

    Email one or two chapters as a Word document or Google Doc, and tell me what kind of editing you're after.

  2. See how I edit

    I'll do a copy edit or developmental edit of your sample. Not sure what you need? I'll assess it and recommend a service.

  3. Decide if we're a fit

    Not every editor suits every writer, and that's okay. The sample makes sure you only spend money on an editor you'll be happy with.

Questions

Good to know.

How much of my book do you need for the sample?

One or two chapters is perfect. That's enough for me to show you how I edit and for you to decide if we're a good fit.

Which type of editing do I need?

If you're still shaping the story, start with developmental editing. If the story is set and you want the writing polished, go with copy editing. Proofreading is the final check before you publish. If you're not sure, the sample edit will tell us.

What file format should I send?

A Word document or a Google Doc. I edit with tracked changes and comments so you can see every suggestion.

Do you work with Canadian authors?

Absolutely. I'm based in Calgary, and Canadian authors pay in CAD.

Next steps

Ready when you are.

Send me a chapter or two and let's see if we're a good fit. I'd love to hear about your book.

Email me for a sample edit faithjacobsonedits@gmail.com