Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring an Editor
Because your manuscript deserves more than a scam, a ghost, or a rushed job.
You finally finished your draft. You’re nervous, excited, and proud. You know you need an editor, but where do you start?
The truth is: the wrong editor can cost you time, money, and confidence.
At Solvaris Publishing LLC, we’re here to protect your voice, your vision, and your investment. So let’s talk about what to look out for before you click “send” on your manuscript.
🚩 Red Flag #1: They Promise to “Fix Everything” Without Reading It
If an editor gives you a flat rate or “quick fix” without reviewing your manuscript first, run.
Every manuscript is different. Every author has a different voice, genre, and goal. A real editor will ask questions, read a sample, or offer a consultation before quoting or making promises.
✅ What to look for: Editors who offer a sample edit, intake form, or discovery call first.
🚩 Red Flag #2: They Don’t Explain What Type of Editing They’re Offering
“Editing” is not one-size-fits-all.
There’s:
Copy editing (grammar, clarity, flow)
Line editing (sentence rhythm, tone, voice)
Developmental editing (big-picture structure and story)
Proofreading (final polish after formatting)
If someone says “editing” without clarifying what kind, that’s a red flag.
✅ What to look for: Clear service breakdowns and definitions (like we offer at Solvaris).
🚩 Red Flag #3: No Contract or Paper Trail
If they’re editing without a contract, payment policy, or clear expectations in writing?
That’s a huge no.
A legit editor:
Sends a service agreement
Lays out payment timelines
Provides revision rounds
Stays in communication throughout the project
✅ What to look for: Professionalism, structure, and boundaries.
🚩 Red Flag #4: They Don’t Respect Your Voice
An editor should never rewrite your story to fit their style or opinions.
You’re the author.
Your voice is the message.
If an editor is harsh, dismissive, or constantly “correcting” things that are your creative choices, that’s not editing—it’s ego.
✅ What to look for: Editors who uplift your voice, not override it.
🚩 Red Flag #5: They Offer Too Much for Too Little
If someone offers full copy editing, proofreading, formatting, publishing, AND marketing… for $99?
That’s not a good deal. That’s a trap.
They’re likely outsourcing your work to bots, AI, or low-cost freelancers—and the quality will show.
✅ What to look for: Editors with fair pricing, clear boundaries, and focused services.
At Solvaris Publishing, We Keep It Real:
We offer a free 3,000-word sample edit so you can feel our style
We send professional contracts, offer flexible plans, and stay in communication
We specialize in copy and line editing, not “one-size-fits-all” fluff
We edit with heart, strategy, and deep respect for your voice
📩 Request a Free Sample Edit
🌐 See Our Full Services
📧 publishing@solvaris-publishing-llc.com
