Take My Clients' Word For It...

It's easy enough to blather on about what I have to offer as an independent editor, as I do on regular occasions when promoting myself across my social-media platform, but there's nothing like backing it up with solid testimony from my clients. No arms were twisted in this exercise - I simply asked them to share their thoughts on the service I provided, and continue to do so as their editor. I'll add more as they come in. Read on...

LJ Ryan - Romance/Drama. Debut novel recently released.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/View-our-Window-Lj-Ryan-ebook/dp/B078QHMFG3/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1514966556&sr=1-3&keywords=Lj+Ryan

I employed Eamon as editor of my first novel. Through his professionalism and expertise, he guided me and helped build my own knowledge and confidence in developing a novel. I would have no hesitation in recommending Eamon for any new or experienced writers. I look forward to working with him again in the near future.

Micah Harris - Literary. Debut novel recently released.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Only-Small-Things-Are-Good-ebook/dp/B078QCC6D8/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1514966745&sr=1-1&keywords=Micah+Harris

I found Eamon from the glowing review of a fellow author. He told me what he would do, then he did it, ahead of schedule and at a very reasonable cost. I was also surprised at the depth of insight tying his edits together. Eamon will intuit what you are trying to do and the style that makes it you, and--rather than remaking you according to some idea of what a book should be--he will point the way to an even better way of being you.

Tina Hammond - Fantasy/Paranormal

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Posse-Legends-T-Hammond-ebook/dp/B075DFSGJ1/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

I approached Eamon/Clear-View Fiction Editing for my Urban Fantasy trilogy and I've been continually impressed with his developmental suggestions and the quality of his editing. Eamon is respectful of an author's vision, and willing to compromise. An excellent writing partner!

Ray Ronan - Thriller/Paranormal

https://www.amazon.co.uk/DIE-Country-Herself-Clarke-Thriller-ebook/dp/B014VO11RQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1510770865&sr=1-2&keywords=Ray+Ronan

Working with Eamon as an editor is a transformative experience for both book and author. Having passed through other editors, it wasn't until I worked with Eamon that I really saw the value in my book and was proud to have it up there and published. I now felt I had something as professional as anything traditionally published. I'd highly recommend working with Clear-View. If you don't believe me, go read my book, To Die For. There, review and pitch in one. If there are any errors in this review, that's all down to me. Eamon had nothing to do with it. ;-)

Mary Bradford - Multi-genre

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Destiny-Mary-T-Bradford-ebook/dp/B01I5GAKHI/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

I've known Eamon for a number of years and when I need advice and editing for my projects, he is my go-to man. He is someone who is thorough, professional, and above all else brilliant in working with you to bring out the best in your writing. Eamon is approachable on all aspects of writing and I have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone who is seeking an editor - they will not be disappointed.

Amy Tierney - Romance

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Calender-Days-2-Book-Series/dp/B0718SFNHP/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1509724101&sr=1-3&keywords=Amy+Tierney

Loved working with Eamon on my first two novels. I found him very efficient and knowledgeable in all aspects of editing and proofing. I would certainly recommend him as a developmental editor, a line-editor, and a proofreader to anyone in the process of developing their manuscript.

Frank Parker - Literary/Historical

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Transgression-secret-Member-Parliament-darker-ebook/dp/B014N1C1QC/ref=sr_1_6?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1510771228&sr=1-6&keywords=Frank+Parker

Eamon did a fantastic job, working with me to turn a mediocre novel into one of which Irish writer and playwright John MacKenna said my “characters came alive”. I would unhesitatingly recommend him to anyone who needs a sympathetic editor.

S.K. Nicholls - Commercial Fiction/Thriller
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Naked-Alliances-Richard-Private-Investigator-ebook/dp/B01LFW4XAE/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1514966373&sr=1-2&keywords=sk+nicholls

I had a manuscript that had been beta read and approved by a dozen authors. Rather than rush to publish, I stuck it on a shelf, because I wasn't satisfied it met my own standards, but wasn't sure what polishing it needed. I was referred to Clear-View Fiction Editing by another author who understood that I needed developmental editing and not simply proofreading. Eamon and I forged a working relationship and I couldn't be happier with his services. I had not worked with a professional editor and he exercised patience and understanding throughout my first encounter with the process, making it a pleasant and positive experience. Eamon taught me valuable techniques and helped me develop insights into my own work that will stay with me forever. His professionalism, attention to detail, and comprehensive knowledge and skill gave me the confidence needed to transform my manuscript into a novel worthy of publication. Whether a new writer, or seasoned, Clear-View Fiction Editing can provide the guidance and support you need to produce a premium product. Highly recommended.

Gormla Hughes - Academic/Essay/Memoir

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dismembering-Barbie-Fleeting-visits-gendered-ebook/dp/B074QW9M9N/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1509723307&sr=1-3&keywords=Gormla+Hughes

There are no words to recommend Eamon highly enough. I can only say: meticulous, educates, generous, insightful.

Kathryn Estrada - Middle-grade/Historical. Debut novel due to be released in 2019.

Eamon has just returned to me the final proof of my upper middle-grade novel, and I am completely thrilled by it. As I read through the pages, I'm reminded of the many insightful edits he made in terms of both plot and phrase. Even the smallest article or conjunction was not overlooked. Every writer wants to turn out the best possible version of their story and Eamon is the editor who will help make that happen. He truly knew my characters which, I believe, is critical in shaping the story. His skills have my wholehearted endorsement, and I sincerely believe there is no better value among editing services than those he provides.

Monica Mastrantonio - Literary

https://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=Monica+Mastrantonio

Eamon provides a great editing service, respecting the voice, timing, and structure of the novel. Very proud to have chosen him for Open/Pierre's journey after war, by Margareth Stewart.

Seán O’Connor - Horror/Chiller: The Mongrel and Weeping Season. 
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mongrel-Se%C3%A1n-OConnor/dp/1789015456/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1541149859&sr=1-3&keywords=Sean+O+Connor

I enlisted Eamon to edit my manuscript and, as a result of his services, I ended up with a book. His approach was respectful, meticulous, and, above all, professional. His insights and advice go beyond just editing and this helped instill confidence in my ability to see my project through to the end. For this, I can’t thank him enough. I would have no hesitation at all in recommending Eamon, and I can’t wait to work with him again on future projects.

More than an editor!

I had the pleasure of working with Eamon for a second time on my latest book, Weeping Season. How could I not enlist his services after the first time we worked together?

The man is a joy to work with, and once again he put my fiction through its paces from all technical aspects. From line edit, copy edit, and developmental suggestions, he offered his expertise in ,a respectful, courteous, and, most importantly, professional manner.

Once again, I can't thank him enough for his expertise and friendship as I continue on my writing journey.

More than just an editor!

Attracta Fahy - Memoir/Fiction/Poetry

Almost three years ago, I engaged Eamon in Clear-View Fiction Editing to support me with a personal project, which was a complex and convoluted process. I found Eamon's approach to be professional, proficient, and extremely competent in the overall editing, structure, and proofreading of this work. Eamon's clarity in his work, attention to detail, insight and knowledge in his craft, was invaluable.

In the last year, I have worked with Eamon while undertaking a Masters Degree Course in Writing. His precise expertise and advice was a huge contributory factor in my overall achievement of an Honours Degree.

One quality that stands out is Eamon's honesty, and his advice in outlining realistic suggestions. Apart from this, Eamon is reasonable in price, offers very good value for work, and his commitment is second to none. Eamon is also easy to work with. He has a particular respect for the essence of what is being expressed in the writing itself. I have no hesitation in recommending him for any project.

Dreama Frisk - Literary/Historical - Debut novel currently searching for an agent. 
http://dreamafrisk.com/

Reading Eamon's emails or his edits is like you are talking, person to person. You are connected. He perceives: he listens: he responds. Really, I think he read my mind. Somehow, he is both organized and generous.

There is the same kind of relationship with the direct text. Eamon reads deeply. He sizes up the meaning and intent, and proceeds from there. Crossing into developmental editing is natural. Once there, he proceeds with respect for the writer and her story.

Dave Kavanagh - Managing Editor at Blue Nib literary journal. Fantasy novel in final preparation for submission.

Eamon is a joy to work with. He spent several months helping me to turn a raw manuscript into a finished product. Eamon quickly grasped my intention and my writing style, and worked tirelessly to help me produce a polished work without ever once moving away from or altering the intent of my original. I could not recommend him highly enough. He is professional and patient, and his work is top class.

Melissa Saint Hilaire - Film maker - Mult-genre Writer - Founder of American Witch. Sci-Fi novel due out in 2020. https://www.facebook.com/melissa.sainthilaire?__tn__=%2CdlC-R-R&eid=ARBIZ9Ah-MgOotWgQ9KSfYsX72HgKOwzH31FkZK_3E7vkFIEtmxPO_KU9TjXOjLu5pZ7Ind4s8ltcRKR&hc_ref=ARS8jkJUomBdOFEBRaYmIPC7iPMK-JORyp3Q7eLfIpD3AFne3q3N1AF55h66dhY7_tk

I can't say enough good things about Clear-View Editing! Eamon raises the bar. He's funny and kind in his suggestions, and always on point. He has single-handedly made me a better writer. I highly recommend him!

So there you are, straight from the proverbial horse's mouth, so to speak. Can't really get better than that, can you? Unless, of course, you wish to experience my services for yourself. If you're up for that, all you have to do is email me at: clearviewediting@gmail.com and we can have a wee chat. You can take a look through my other blog posts, and there's also my website: http://clearviewfictionediting.com/

Indie Editor Open for Bookings

If your manuscript is ready to be edited and you haven't yet found a professional editor to bring your work to a ready-to-go state before submission or self-publishing, I have openings over the coming months. All you have to do to set the ball rolling is send a short sample chapter to me at clearviewediting@gmail.com. This is important as I don't take on new clients without doing a sample edit first. It works for both of us - I'll know where you stand as a writer, and you'll know on return if my editing approach suits your needs.

Read my clients' views on the services I offer:  http://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/2017/11/take-my-clients-word-for-it.html

Check out my website to get a better idea of my editing approach: http://clearviewfictionediting.com/

Take a run through my blog to view my thoughts on editing, writing, and taking care of yourself as a creative artist: https://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/

Here's a link to one of my blog posts - a bit of a rant about taking shortcuts when prepping your work for release.
http://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/2016/01/the-folly-of-taking-shortcuts-have-your.html

Visit my Facebook page: https: //www.facebook.com/clearviewfictionediting/

Once we agree to work together, I'll schedule you in for your wip's (work in progress) first edit, which is as deep and comprehensive as it gets. When you've applied my suggestions (as you see fit) and completed your rewrite, send it back for its second run, which goes as deep as the first, but primarily takes into account the work's development from the first edit. After your next rewrite, I carry out an eagle-eyed proofread that sets your wip up for pre-release prepping - I make a point of publicizing my clients' upcoming releases across my social-media platform. Once that's done, you're out there in the ever-expanding universe of Indie-publishing, with me at your side all the way. You know where I am if you need me.

Back to the Grindstone - a salutary tale of travel torture

As the title to this post says, I'm back to the grindstone after my break away in the beautiful environs of Italy's Liguria - based in Rapallo and taking in all surrounding coastal towns and villages, not forgetting the fantastic mountain sanctuary of Montellegro, with its astonishing views and peaceful setting. Bernie and I were spoilt rotten by the sun, the sea, the food - the people - the history and cultural depth of the area, and just about everything the Italian Riviera had to offer.

Yes, a holiday there is highly recommended, but all great and wonderful things must come to an end, and ours came to a surprising thump in the name of Ryanair. We had four flights to make: Our first from Knock to London's Stansted, with our second flight connecting to Genoa next day, but that was cancelled in the initial flurry of Ryanair cancellations. We had notice so took it on the chin, booked a replacement flight for the following day, and made the best of London by staying in my son's for two very happy nights where we enjoyed time with my granddaughter and her family.

We flew to Genoa and enjoyed a magical six nights (we lost one because of the cancellation) in Rapallo and its environs. Then we turned up at Genoa airport for our third flight, heading back to Stansted, only to be informed that our flight had been cancelled, without notice to us. Unbelievable, and with no Ryanair staff to connect with. Anyway, thanks to the airport staff, we got a fight for the next day and booked ourselves into the airport hotel for that night - lucky for us we had sufficient funds. Our main problem, though, apart from the shock of having a flight cancelled for the second time on our four-flight holiday, our connecting flight from Stansted to Knock in Ireland wouldn't be met at 10 am next morning, and our Airb&b stay was wasted because it was too late to cancel.

What to do...? We went through language and geographical hoops to finally connect with a Ryanair contact, who basically promised to book us on a flight the following day, but I would have to call back in forty minutes to complete the booking. Of course, when I tried to call back, it was like leaping into the darkest, deepest hole, blindfolded and manacled. I was given numbers that rang out, with no way back to the original connection. Their Live Chat helpline also went AWOL. Lots of deep breaths at this stage, plus an Americano with a large shot of Bushmills.

We decided to sleep on it and start again first thing next morning after breakfast, but we were too upset to tackle more than coffee. Anyway, we finally connected to their Live Chat and went through more hoops to clarify our situation with a contact who was obviously using English as a second or third language. He/she informed us that a flight back to Knock was available on the 22nd, four days later! Mamma Mai! After my other half dragged me back out of the computer-monitor's portal, I calmed down and we eventually got our contact to book us on a 10 pm flight to Dublin from Stansted - at least we'd be back on our island and a bus or train-ride away from Knock airport, where our car was parked, collecting added charges.

But no, that flight would land at 11.30, so we'd miss the last bus connection. Was there no end to this? At this stage we were getting no further on the Live Chat so we took what we had and arrived at Stansted, with five hours to pass and the prospect of having to arrange an overnight stay in Dublin. Here's where Bernie took over. We went straight to Ryanair's Customer Service desk - I wasn't looking forward to what I envisioned would be a bloodbath. But that was before we met Kamal. This chap is a wonder - a calm, polite, and ultimately humane person, who went out of his way to accommodate us once we explained our situation and showed him our paper-trail of Ryanair-inflicted torture. He deserves special commendation in this narrative. Long-story-short, he got us onto an 8 pm standby flight to Dublin, due in shortly after nine, which meant we could get a bus back to Sligo and our bed, which meant we just had to get another bus to Knock airport this morning to collect the car (Bernie looked after that).

We're going to sit down later and put all our receipts and documents together before connecting with Ryanair's claims' contact, though I'm sure it'll be a form-filling exercise more than actually communicating with a human. We live in hope that we'll be reimbursed for our expenses and compensated for our inconvenience.

So, now I'm back at my desk, loose ends sorted, ready to get back into what I love and do best -  editing. While this runway is fairly full, there will be no cancellations, and all will be accommodated in good time. I may not be a Kamal, but I make a point of looking after my clients and their interests. They know that, which is why they stick with me, and they are appreciated for that.

If you have a novel or memoir that you feel is ready for a professional edit, drop me a line at clearviewediting@gmail.com and we can have a chat about your options.

Support Indie Authors

Tweeters or bloggers passing this way will hopefully understand the importance of supporting independent authors, not just through buying their novels or collections, but by making the effort to leave an honest reader's review on their Amazon page, or on whatever platform you purchase their product. Reviews are like gold to the author, whose job is hard enough as it is. Your assistance in this regard is hugely appreciated. Support indie authors by leaving a review. Pass the word on, you never know when you might one day depend on the same yourself.

If an author isn't yet published, then you can follow them on Twitter or Facebook, shadowing their progress as they prepare their novel for release. What better way to get to know an upcoming writer than by visiting them on a regular basis to see how things are developing? Below are the Twitter and Amazon pages of several of my clients. Take some time out of your day to check them out, and to follow them. Being supportive will do you and them the world of good.

Ray Ronan - Thrillers/Paranormal
https://twitter.com/AuthorRayRonan
https://www.amazon.com/DIE-Country-Herself-Clarke-Thriller-ebook/dp/B014VO11RQ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

T. Hammond - Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
https://twitter.com/THammondwrites
https://www.amazon.com/Posse-Duoviri-T-Hammond-ebook/dp/B01D3EK5NQ/ref=la_B00BS93JK0_1_11?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501240807&sr=1-11

Amy Tierney - Romance
https://twitter.com/amy_tierney_40
https://www.amazon.com/April-Calendar-Days-Book-2-ebook/dp/B071RD5G52/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501240853&sr=1-2&keywords=Amy+Tierney

Mary T. Bradford - Multi-genre
https://twitter.com/marytbrad
https://www.amazon.com/Mary-T-Bradford/e/B00BSRPSOC/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1501240925&sr=1-2-ent

Susan K. Nicholls - Thriller/Comedy
https://twitter.com/sknicholls1
https://www.amazon.com/Naked-Alliances-Richard-Private-Investigator-ebook/dp/B01LFW4XAE/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501241040&sr=1-1&keywords=Naked+Alliances

Frank Parker - Literary/Historical
https://twitter.com/fparkerswords
https://www.amazon.com/Frank-Parker/e/B0076JVE5I/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

Phillipa Vincent Connolly - Historical
https://twitter.com/PhillipaJC
https://www.amazon.com/Phillipa-Vincent-Connolly/e/B00DUWA4GU/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1501241219&sr=1-2-ent

Monica Mastrantonio - Literary
https://twitter.com/Mastrantonio
https://www.amazon.com/Monica-Mastrantonio/e/B0172BPFOK/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1501241292&sr=1-2-ent

Gormla Hughes - Memoir/Political/Mental Health
https://twitter.com/Paradisefound64
https://www.amazon.com/While-you-were-watching-Waltons-ebook/dp/B0716ZS3LJ/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501241336&sr=1-1&keywords=Gormla+Hughes

Mary Angland - Drama/Romance
https://twitter.com/MaryAngland
https://www.amazon.com/Just-Because-collection-short-stories/dp/1492860360/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501241404&sr=1-2&keywords=Mary+Angland

Micah Harris - Literary
https://twitter.com/writermicah
https://www.amazon.com/Black-Nails-Short-Micah-Harris-ebook/dp/B06WGN7X5H/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501241510&sr=1-4&keywords=Micah+Harris

Dreama Frisk - Historical/Drama
https://twitter.com/frisk_d
https://www.amazon.com/Ivory-Hollyhock-Dreama-Wyant-Frisk/dp/0966455800/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501242893&sr=8-1&keywords=Dreama+Frisk+author

L. J. Ryan - Romance
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lj-Ryan/e/B078Y7XHPR/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1541766366&sr=1-2-ent
https://twitter.com/authorljryan

Aisling Keogh - Drama/Romance
https://twitter.com/aislingtkeogh

Seán O'Connor - Horror/Chiller
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mongrel-Se%C3%A1n-OConnor-ebook/dp/B07GB7ZQWC/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1541766268&sr=1-1&keywords=Sean+O+Connor
https://www.seanoconnor.org/books

Melissa St. Hilaire - Scifi/Fantasy/Horror
http://www.melissa2u.com/


Vivienne Walls - Literary
https://twitter.com/viviennewalls

Kathryn Estrada - Children/YA
https://twitter.com/wardogwriter

Attracta Fahy - Memoir/Drama/Poetry
https://twitter.com/Attractafahy

Marie O'Halloran - Crime\Thriller
https://twitter.com/MarieOHalloran2

Tony McGrane - Thriller
https://twitter.com/TonyMcGrane66

http://clearviewfictionediting.com/

Taking Bookings for Fiction and Memoir

If your manuscript is ready to be edited and you haven't yet found a professional editor to bring your work to a ready-to-go state before submission or self-publishing, I have openings over the coming months. All you have to do to set the ball rolling is send a sample chapter to me at clearviewediting@gmail.com. This is important as I don't take on new clients without doing a sample edit first.

See for yourself what my clients say about the services I provide: http://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/2017/11/take-my-clients-word-for-it.html

Check out my website to get a better idea of my editing approach: http://clearviewfictionediting.com/

Take a run through my blog to view my thoughts on editing, writing, and taking care of yourself as a creative artist: https://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/

Here's a link to one of my blog posts - a bit of a rant about taking shortcuts when prepping your work for release.
http://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/2016/01/the-folly-of-taking-shortcuts-have-your.html

Visit my Facebook page: https: //www.facebook.com/clearviewfictionediting/

A Gentle Reminder to Writers

A Gentle Reminder to Writers

This is just a short note – a gentle reminder. As I mentioned in an earlier post, writers need to be cognizant of their scheduling, especially when most of their focus is placed on completing the first draft of their work-in-progress (wip). It’s easy to lose sense of time and what lies ahead of the self-edit.

Whatever month it is as you develop your wip—say it’s June—you need to project ahead, possibly several months, maybe even a year, to when your work is ready to be professionally edited. You don’t want to be hanging around for too long, waiting, so it’s highly recommended, by this editor anyway, that you plan ahead and endeavour to book your slot to prevent disappointment.

I’m usually booked up into the near future, often longer, so be sure to contact me so we can block off those couple of weeks for your all-important first edit. Visit my website to get a better idea of my editing approach, or scroll through my blog for insights and tips on writing, self-editing, and keeping sane in this creative whirlwind we’re caught up in. You can also visit my Facebook page, where a supportive like is always appreciated, or follow me on Twitter.

My website: http://clearviewfictionediting.com/?doing_wp_cron=1496919043.9275140762329101562500

My blog: http://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/

My Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/clearviewfictionediting/

My Twitter page: https://twitter.com/eamonocleirigh

Seeing the Bigger Picture

I’ve written before about the importance and benefits of taking time away from your workstation, especially if your schedule is at a level where not too much light or physicality gets a look in. I’m a freelance editor, thankfully a very busy freelance editor, so I needed to take my own advice before my innards seized up. What better opportunity than a wedding in the sunny climes of Portugal’s Albufeira? A busload of us scooted off to the airport and away we went for a glorious week of fun and total relaxation. I kid you not, while I checked my emails every evening, and even answered a couple, not a moment was spent actually working. Beautiful beaches were fully exploited, as were the restaurants and cultural establishments, so I didn’t suffer the effects of work withdrawal too much, if at all.

But now I’m back and the reality of life kicked in almost as our plane’s tyres hit the runway at Knock. My schedule is packed for the foreseeable, and I’m loving it. Being booked up like that is great for me, but can sometimes prove problematic for prospective clients, especially those who have it in their heads that now their work-in-progress is ready to be edited, then it should be edited without delay. Ah, if only that where the way of the world, but it doesn’t work that way, unless you’re lucky enough to find an editor who has nothing on the scheduling ramp.

Writers need to see the bigger picture. It takes a substantial chunk of your life to complete that first draft and then bring your manuscript to a level where it’s ready for a professional edit. While you’re sweating away at that, you’re visualising your novel on a prominent Best Seller shelf, even doing very well on Amazon, etc, and so it’s easy to believe the fantasy that it’s a simple hop, skip, and jump from one stage to the next. But that’s not the case. While you’re working through the self-editing phase, you should send your sample chapter out to your self-made shortlist of prospective editors. Having a half-dozen sample edits to hand will better enable you to decide which editor is for you, but more importantly, through correspondence, you’ll have a much clearer idea of scheduling – knowing when your chosen editor can fit you in for that first developmental or line edit.

I receive sample chapters from writers on a regular basis. The way I operate, I won’t take on a new client before providing a sample edit – I get to see what I’m working with, and the writer can decide if my editing approach suits them. Some balk at the prospect of having to wait several months for their editing slot to become active. But as we all know, time doesn’t stop, and what with work and life, that allocated date is upon you before you know it, and it comes all the faster if you’ve continued smoothing out the creases in your wip or have maybe embarked on the next book. Once my first edit begins, you’ll have your ms back within two to three weeks, sending you into full rewrite mode and bringing your wip closer to that prized shelf.

So, take stock of what stage your wip is at, then project to where you’ll have it self-edited and ready to be professionally edited. Once you have that timeframe established, you’ll have a better idea when to send out that chapter to your shortlist of editors for a free sample edit. Once you work through the returned edits, you’ll be in a much better position to decide which editor is for you. But most importantly, you’ll be able to schedule your edit and still have time to work on your wip during the inevitable waiting stage. Or you could just fish around for an editor who has a clear schedule sheet. I’m worth the wait, but it’s your call.

http://clearviewfictionediting.com/?doing_wp_cron=1496224766.9202370643615722656250



New Writing, New Reading...

I'm always proud when my clients publish a new work, or even re-launch a newly edited novel. It's the end of an often intense period of editing and rewriting and the beginning of a new journey into the ever-expanding world of Indie publishing, where boundaries are always being pushed and reshaped. Below are some recently released works I'd encourage you to read, but especially to leave an honest review. As you know, such reviews are always welcome and go a long way to spreading the word and attracting other readers.

The first is Irishman Ray Ronan's re-launched Lynn Clarke thriller, To Die For, a cracker of a read with a female protagonist who'd stand well beside Lee Child's Jack Reacher. Ray has the knack for creating a rip-roaring twister of a story that will leave you breathless and hungry for more. Enjoy!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/DIE-Country-Clarke-Herself-Thriller-ebook/dp/B014VO11RQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1547824197&sr=8-1&keywords=ray+ronan

Next up is Amy Tierney's second in the Calendar Days' series, April, a beautiful story of romance and the power of friendship, reintroducing us to Cathy, Sam, and their circle of close friends that will leave you smiling and longing to get your hands on the third in the series, already being written.

https://www.amazon.com/April-Calendar-Days-Amy-Tierney/dp/154321956X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491512467&sr=8-1&keywords=Amy+Tierney

Seán O'Conner's debut novella, The Mongrel has been making noticeable waves in the Horror/Chiller world, garnering a bevy of positive reviews in the short time since its release. Stay on the look out for his second offering, coming in the very near future.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mongrel-Se%C3%A1n-OConnor/dp/1789015456/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1547824655&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Mongrel

There are several novels in the works due for release later this year. I'll post links to them as they arrive on the scene so keep an eye out. In the meantime, maybe you'd like to check out a few of my other clients who have some excellent choices for your to-be-read list.

Cork woman, Mary Bradford, has a wide, cross-genre oeuvre of romance, horror, historical, and erotica that will keep you riveted,
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_5_9?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=mary+bradford&sprefix=Mary+Brad%2Caps%2C380&crid=DYRCQ1XGZVAE

T. Hammond is a prolific writer of paranormal contemporary and fantasy. Seriously strong writing, with memorable characters and storylines. Her second in the Duoviri series is coming soon.
https://www.amazon.com/T.-Hammond/e/B00BS93JK0/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1491514298&sr=8-1

Susan Nicholls is the author of the popular Naked Alliances, the first in her Naked Eye series that introduces us to some wonderful and weird characters who make reading her work a pure pleasure.
https://www.amazon.com/S.K.-Nicholls/e/B00C8EX4GS/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1491514837&sr=8-1

You'll enjoy Frank Parker's writing, especially Transgression, a strongly drawn story of secrets and betrayal.
https://www.amazon.com/Transgression/dp/B01K934R10/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Be sure to check out my website to get a better idea of my approach to editing, or simply send a sample chapter to clearviewediting@gmail.com

                                                   http://clearviewfictionediting.com/

Taking Time Out to Recharge and Reconnect

I’ve written several times about the benefits of taking time out from work to appreciate the relaxing freedom of a nice walk and/or a deep breath or two, especially where you find yourself in the good company of mature trees, flowing water, rain, wind, and unbroken vistas that enable you to look into the distance to better appreciate perspective, and simply to give your head a break from the hard focus of writing and editing.

I add to that, family. And I include close friends in that category. Though we often breathe a sigh of relief at escaping family for a few welcome hours of creative work, it’s essential that we get away from the grindstone to spend time with family and/or friends. Good advice, in my opinion, which I managed to put to good use over the weekend. I put my red pen down, closed my laptop, and took a 737 across the Irish Sea to spend quality time with my beautiful son and his lovely wife and daughter.

To say it was a breath of fresh air would be the understatement of the month. We chat all the time, but don’t get to see each other as often as we’d like. No better reason to make the best of a three-night stay, packing in family indoor and outdoor time, enjoying chats, discussing reading and writing with my word-hungry granddaughter, powerwalking through the nearby woods – searching for suitable natural-wood perches for my son’s budgie, Papa. Needless to say, my clean-eating regime got left in Ireland, and rightly so – I’ll write about hot chocolate pizza another time.

Being a freelance editor can be a bit of a funny old business. I’m always busy, working on first edits, or second or third returns, but one minute my immediate calendar had more free space than a field of prime grass in the middle of summer, then I’m booked up to July, with many other writers hinting in the near distance that they like what’s going on with my website and blog, plus, of course, many of my groovy clients continue to refer me to their writing friends and associates, which I really do appreciate (I reward this behaviour with good discount). It’s brilliant to have the work, and to have such positive feedback across the indie-writing spectrum. I’m delighted with it, especially so because I’m doing something that I love, and it’s wonderful to see so much original writing developed and released to the world.

And now I’m back in the land of saints and scholars, stuffed with love (and choc pizza), just itching to get back to work and what I do best, collaborating with indie writers to develop their hard-worked fiction and memoir, honing and polishing it until it’s ready to take the proverbial leap into the ever-expanding universe of the publishing world. My heart is full of love, my mind is well rested, and now I’m ready to go. If you have a work-in-progress that you’d like me to take a look at, send me a chapter and I’ll provide a free sample edit. After that, it’s up to you, but you know you’ll be in good company. Be sure to check out my website and blog, too.

My blog: http://writingfromtheoutsidein.blogspot.ie/

My website: http://clearviewfictionediting.com/

My email address: clearviewediting@gmail.com

 

Doing It Like A Boss

Almost everybody has New Year resolutions, generally aspiring to lead a healthier life, especially after the feasting and partying of the holiday period. It’s a time for taking a more positive attitude to your day, from getting out more, maybe walking or cycling, going for a swim and sauna, or maybe even improving how you perceive people and events surrounding you.

Whatever you do, becoming more involved and striving to meet objectives is an important aspect of the New Year approach. This is particularly true for writers, who are always involved in one project or another, whether that’s through actual writing or by getting out for that walk and daydreaming your way into your next chapter, action scene, or plot twist.

It’s about being active. We’re all well aware of the old adage – bums on seats – and we know only too well that nothing productive happens without the commitment to place ourselves in that seat, whether it’s typing or writing – nothing gets done by allowing distraction rule the roost.

That’s why you need to set a schedule that will at least box you into a potentially productive timeline. If your writing day starts after your work day has finished, you’re going to have to be strong as an ox so you don’t fall to the temptation of lounging on the couch in front of the demon television. TV kills productivity, as does the internet. Turn both off and banish yourself to a place where distraction takes a backseat.

If you’re a fulltime writer, then you have no excuses when it comes to timing your writing blocks from early morning. My workday schedule, as an editor, has me on the job by 7am, putting in two-hour blocks before allowing myself a break for a snack or to simply stretch the legs and eyeballs. As a writer, possibly working to a deadline, you need to be as disciplined, pushing through problems, even dumping material that’s just not doing it for you and starting again. You need to get into a strong working habit that will see you producing on a regular basis.

If you’re in a busy household, lock yourself in your room, or place a sign on the door, making it clear you’re not to be disturbed. Wear earphones and play suitable tunes if you’re easily distracted by youngsters or lonely buddies scratching at your door. Do what it takes to ensure you’re in a positive working environment, knowing that when you finish one writing block you’ll feel a real sense of achievement and will be rearing to leap into the next one.

Be positive, be disciplined, be productive. Take your desire to complete an objective by the proverbial horn and do it. Simple as – accept no excuses from your lazy self. Be your own instigator and do it like a boss, because that's what you are, your own boss. Now, go write, and when you’ve completed that novel, send me a chapter and a synopsis to clearviewediting@gmail.com for a free sample edit. Good luck!

http://clearviewfictionediting.com/