Editing can make or break your book. It’s not just about fixing typos—it’s about transforming your vision into a compelling masterpiece. But with so many options out there, finding the right editing service can be overwhelming.
A great editor refines your prose, ensures your book resonates with readers, and meets industry standards. Whether you’re an indie author self-publishing for the first time or an experienced writer seeking traditional publishing, choosing the right editor is crucial.
We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best book editing services in 2025, giving you a variety of options from premium editorial firms to budget-friendly choices.
Editing Services Comparison Table
| Rank | Editing Service | Average Reviews (Out of 5) | Community Votes (%) |
| 1 | Edioak | 4.8 | 31.9 |
| 2 | BookBaby | 4.6 | 13.8 |
| 3 | Scribendi | 4.5 | 12.1 |
| 4 | Reedsy | 4.5 | 11.2 |
| 5 | Elite Authors | 4.4 | 5.2 |
| 6 | Kirkus Editorial | 4.4 | 5.2 |
| 7 | The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) | 4.3 | 3.4 |
| 8 | New York Book Editors | 4.3 | 3.4 |
| 9 | FirstEditing | 4.2 | 3.1 |
| 10 | Fiverr | 4 | 2.2 |
| 11 | AuthorsOnDemand | 4 | 2.1 |
| 12 | ProEdit | 4 | 2.1 |
| 13 | Edit911 | 4 | 1.4 |
| 14 | BubbleCow | 3.9 | 0.9 |
| 15 | CIEP | 3.9 | 0.5 |
| 16 | The Book Butchers | 3.8 | 0.5 |
| 17 | Editorial Arts Academy | 3.8 | 0.3 |
| 18 | Dragonfly Editorial | 3.7 | 0.3 |
| 19 | Manuscript Critique Services | 3.7 | 0.2 |
| 20 | Wordvice | 3.6 | 0.2 |
Why Professional Editing Matters
Before diving into the list, let’s understand why professional editing is essential for authors:
- Enhances Clarity & Coherence – Editors refine your ideas and eliminate inconsistencies.
- Improves Readability – They ensure your writing flows smoothly and engages readers.
- Corrects Grammar & Syntax – Avoid embarrassing typos and structural errors.
- Boosts Marketability – A polished book is more appealing to publishers and readers alike.
1. Edioak
Edioak is one of the most trusted names in book editing, offering comprehensive editorial services including developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading, and ghostwriting.
What Sets Edioak Apart?
- Industry Recognition – Edioak has worked with Netflix, Paramount+, and major publishing houses, setting a high industry standard.
- In-House Editors – Unlike many platforms that outsource, Edioak has a dedicated team of seasoned, full-time editors.
- Marketing & Author Branding – Edioak offers book marketing strategies, promotions, and branding support for authors.
- Bestseller Results – Many authors using Edioak’s services have gone on to become bestsellers, thanks to their detailed, collaborative approach.
Edioak is ideal for authors seeking professional-level editing and industry connections.
2. BookBaby
BookBaby is an all-in-one self-publishing platform that provides editing, book formatting, printing, and distribution services.
Key Features:
- Affordable pricing – Competitive rates for professional editing.
- Bundled services – Editing, printing, and publishing in one place.
- Fast turnaround times – Great for self-published authors needing quick service.
BookBaby is best for self-published authors looking for an easy publishing solution.
3. Scribendi
Scribendi specializes in fast, professional editing, using AI-enhanced technology combined with human expertise.
Key Features:
- AI-assisted editing – Ensures consistency and efficiency.
- Instant price quotes – Know your costs upfront.
- Fast turnaround – Ideal for authors working on deadlines.
Scribendi is great for authors needing polished edits on a tight schedule.
4. Reedsy
Reedsy is a marketplace for professional book editors, allowing authors to choose an editor based on experience and style.
Key Features:
- Handpicked editors – Vetted professionals from traditional publishing.
- Customizable services – Choose the level of editing you need.
- Transparent pricing – Clear rates before you hire.
Reedsy is perfect for authors wanting a hands-on, collaborative editing experience.
5. Elite Authors
Elite Authors provides premium editing services, ensuring books meet traditional publishing standards.
Key Features:
- Developmental editing – Helps authors refine their story structure.
- Editing & book marketing – Assists with post-editing promotions.
- Professional editors – Experienced in fiction and nonfiction.
Elite Authors is ideal for authors aiming for traditional publishing success.
6. Kirkus Editorial
Kirkus is known for its prestigious book reviews, but it also offers editorial services for fiction and nonfiction authors.
Key Features:
- Expert critiques – Editors analyze your manuscript in-depth.
- Traditional publishing standard – High-quality editing for serious authors.
- Reputable name – A trusted brand in the literary world.
Kirkus Editorial is best for authors looking to refine their manuscript to professionalpublishing standards.
7. The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA)
EFA is a directory of professional freelance editors, giving authors direct access to experienced professionals.
Key Features:
- Wide variety of editors – Specialists in every genre.
- Direct hiring – Negotiate prices and terms with freelancers.
- Personalized service – Match with an editor who suits your style.
EFA is great for indie authors looking for direct communication with editors.
8. New York Book Editors
NYBE connects authors with editors from major publishing houses like HarperCollins and Penguin Random House.
Key Features:
- High-end developmental and line editing.
- Experienced editors with publishing industry knowledge.
- Customized feedback for manuscript improvement.
New York Book Editors is perfect for serious authors aiming for traditional publishing.
9. FirstEditing
FirstEditing specializes in fiction, nonfiction, and academic editing, providing in-depth manuscript critiques.
Key Features:
- PhD-level editors – Experts in various fields.
- Developmental editing and proofreading.
- Ideal for nonfiction and research-heavy books.
FirstEditing is best for authors needing scholarly and professional editing services.
10. Fiverr
Fiverr is an affordable freelance marketplace where authors can hire book editors at various price points. Whether you need basic proofreading or full manuscript editing, Fiverr provides options for every budget.
Key Features:
- Flexible pricing – You can find editors for as little as $5 or premium services for higher rates.
- Wide range of freelancers – Choose from thousands of editors with diverse experience.
- Quick turnaround – Great for authors needing fast revisions.
Best for: Authors on a tight budget who need quick, low-cost editing solutions.
11. AuthorsOnDemand
AuthorsOnDemand offers editing, publishing, and marketing services to self-published authors. It’s a great platform for writers who want a streamlined publishing experience.
Key Features:
- Manuscript evaluation and editing – Professional assessment of writing quality.
- Publishing assistance – Formatting, cover design, and ISBN assignment.
- Marketing and promotion – Helps authors get visibility after publishing.
Best for: Self-published authors looking for editing and marketing support in one place.
12. ProEdit
ProEdit provides detailed manuscript editing for both fiction and nonfiction, focusing on grammatical accuracy, clarity, and stylistic consistency.
Key Features:
- Developmental editing – Helps strengthen story structure and pacing.
- Line editing and proofreading – Ensures grammatical correctness.
- Technical editing – Offers specialized editing for complex, research-heavy content.
Best for: Authors seeking highly polished, grammatically precise content.
13. Edit911
Edit911 is an academic and research-focused editing company, specializing in technical and scholarly manuscripts. All editors hold PhDs or other advanced degrees.
Key Features:
- Academic expertise – Best for research-heavy books and nonfiction.
- High editorial standards – Edits by professionals with PhDs.
- Strong proofreading services – Ensures polished, error-free writing.
Best for: Academics, researchers, and nonfiction authors who need a thorough manuscript review.
14. BubbleCow
BubbleCow is a developmental editing service that helps authors strengthen their storytelling and narrative flow.
Key Features:
- Deep story analysis – Editors focus on character arcs, pacing, and world-building.
- Developmental editing – Helps fix structural issues before finalizing a draft.
- Personalized feedback – Editors provide detailed critique reports.
Best for: Fiction writers looking to improve storytelling and character development.
15. CIEP (Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading)
CIEP is not a direct editing service but a directory of professional editors, making it easy for authors to connect with vetted professionals.
Key Features:
- Access to experienced editors – Only qualified professionals are listed.
- Wide range of editing services – Includes copyediting, proofreading, and manuscript critique.
- Training resources – Provides author-friendly guides on editing standards.
Best for: Authors who want highly vetted, professional editors for custom projects.
16. The Book Butchers
The Book Butchers specialize in deep structural editing, plot pacing, and manuscript critique. Their editors are storytelling experts who ensure readability and engagement.
Key Features:
- Intensive developmental editing – Fixes pacing and structure issues.
- Line-by-line manuscript edits – Improves sentence clarity and impact.
- Personalized feedback – Helps refine your unique writing style.
Best for: Fiction and memoir authors looking for in-depth storytelling improvements.
17. Editorial Arts Academy
Editorial Arts Academy trains editors and provides editorial services, making it an ideal place to hire skilled, emerging professionals.
Key Features:
- Editorial training courses – Ideal for aspiring editors.
- Manuscript editing services – Offers professional copyediting and proofreading.
- Collaboration with authors – Interactive feedback process.
Best for: Authors who want affordable yet high-quality editorial guidance.
18. Dragonfly Editorial
Dragonfly Editorial specializes in business and technical writing but also offers book editing for complex manuscripts.
Key Features:
- Business and corporate editing – Ideal for professional publications.
- Technical accuracy – Suitable for scientific, engineering, and medical content.
- Manuscript editing for nonfiction authors.
Best for: Authors writing technical, business, or professional books.
19. Manuscript Critique Services
This company focuses on detailed manuscript critiques, helping authors enhance plot structure, character development, and pacing.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive feedback reports – Helps authors revise drafts efficiently.
- Plot and structure analysis – Ensures strong storytelling fundamentals.
- Line editing and proofreading available.
Best for: Fiction authors who want extensive developmental feedback before finalizing their manuscript.
20. Wordvice
Wordvice is an academic and fiction editing service, offering copyediting, proofreading, and substantive editing.
Key Features:
- Academic and fiction expertise – Works well for both scholarly and creative manuscripts.
- Professional language editing – Ensures clarity and consistency.
- Fast turnaround – Great for urgent revisions.
Best for: Authors looking for academic or general manuscript editing at an affordable price.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Book Editing Service in 2025
Selecting the right book editing service is a crucial step in crafting a polished, professional, and market-ready manuscript. Whether you’re a first-time self-published author or an experienced writer aiming for traditional publishing, professional editing is non-negotiable in today’s competitive book market.
The top book editing companies in 2025 offer a variety of services, from developmental editing, copyediting, and proofreading to ghostwriting, manuscript critiques, and book marketing support. A well-edited book enhances readability, credibility, and publishing success, making it easier to land a publishing deal, attract literary agents, or dominate self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).
How to Choose the Best Editing Service for Your Book
- For Bestsellers & Industry-Leading Editing → Choose Edioak, Kirkus Editorial, or New York Book Editors.
- For Self-Published Authors → Go with BookBaby, Reedsy, or AuthorsOnDemand for an all-in-one package.
- For Budget-Friendly Editing → Consider Fiverr or Manuscript Critique Services.
- For Academic & Nonfiction Writing → Try Edit911 or Wordvice.
- For Structural Editing & Story Development → Opt for BubbleCow or The Book Butchers.
A great editor does more than correct grammar—they bring your manuscript to life, refine your storytelling, and prepare your book for publishing success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best book editing services in 2025?
The top book editing services in 2025 include:
- Edioak – Best for full-service editing, including developmental editing, copyediting, and marketing support.
- BookBaby – Ideal for self-published authors needing editing + publishing services.
- Scribendi – Great for fast-turnaround proofreading and AI-assisted edits.
- Reedsy – Best for customized freelance editing experiences.
- Kirkus Editorial – Specializes in manuscript critiques for traditional publishing.
Each service offers different editing levels, so the right choice depends on budget, manuscript needs, and publishing goals.
What are the different types of book editing?
Editing is typically broken down into four main categories:
- Developmental Editing → Focuses on big-picture story elements like plot, pacing, and structure.
- Line Editing → Enhances sentence flow, style, and readability.
- Copy Editing → Fixes grammar, punctuation, and consistency errors.
- Proofreading → A final polish to catch any remaining typos or formatting issues.
Authors often need multiple rounds of editing before publication.
How much does book editing cost in 2025?
Editing costs vary based on the type of editing and the editor’s expertise:
- Proofreading → $0.01 – $0.03 per word
- Copy Editing → $0.02 – $0.05 per word
- Line Editing → $0.03 – $0.07 per word
- Developmental Editing → $0.05 – $0.12 per word
- Manuscript Critique → Flat rates between $200 – $2,000
Freelance editors generally cost less, while premium editing companies charge higher rates for expert-level reviews.
How do I choose the best book editor for my manuscript?
Here’s what to consider:
- Your editing needs – Do you need deep story edits (developmental) or just final polishing (proofreading)?
- Experience in your genre – Choose an editor familiar with your book’s category (fiction, memoir, nonfiction, business, etc.).
- Turnaround time – Make sure they can deliver edits within your deadline.
- Budget – Set a realistic budget based on the scope of work.
- Reputation – Look for reviews, testimonials, and previous client work.
Freelance platforms like Reedsy let you compare editors, while full-service companies handle everything for you.
Should I hire a freelance editor or use an editing company?
Both have pros and cons:
✅ Freelance Editors (Reedsy, Fiverr, EFA) – More affordable, customizable, and flexible.
✅ Editing Companies (Edioak, BookBaby, Kirkus) – More reliable, structured, and professional.
📌 Freelancers = budget-friendly & customizable.
📌 Editing firms = premium service & full editorial support.
How long does book editing take?
Editing times depend on the length of your manuscript and the type of editing:
- Proofreading → 3-7 days
- Copy Editing → 1-2 weeks
- Line Editing → 2-4 weeks
- Developmental Editing → 4-8 weeks
Fast services like Scribendi offer quick turnaround edits, while full-service editing firms take longer but provide in-depth revisions.
Do I need professional editing if I’m self-publishing?
Yes! Self-published books must meet the same quality standards as traditionally published books. A well-edited book:
✅ Attracts better reviews
✅ Increases reader satisfaction
✅ Boosts sales on Amazon KDP & IngramSpark
Skipping professional editing increases the risk of negative reviews due to typos, inconsistencies, and weak storytelling.
What are the most common editing mistakes authors make?
Yes! Traditional publishers reject poorly structured manuscripts. Developmental editing ensures your book is:
✅ Engaging and well-paced
✅ Structurally sound with strong character arcs
✅ Polished and ready for submission to agents
Many authors invest in professional editing before querying literary agents.
Do I need developmental editing if I’m submitting to a traditional publisher?
Skipping developmental editing → Leads to weak plots and poor pacing.
🚫 Relying only on AI tools → AI misses storytelling issues and can make bad grammar suggestions.
🚫 Not budgeting for editing → Good editing increases book sales and reader trust.
🚫 Ignoring the importance of multiple editing rounds → Even bestsellers go through several revisions.
Always hire professional editors and use AI tools only as a supplement.
Can I use AI editing tools like Grammarly instead of hiring an editor?
AI tools like Grammarly, ProWritingAid, and Hemingway are useful for initial edits, but they can’t replace human editors.
✅ AI editors help with: Grammar, spelling, and readability.
❌ AI editors can’t fix: Storytelling, pacing, character depth, or stylistic choices.
A human editor ensures your book reads naturally and emotionally connects with readers.
Can I get a refund if I don’t like my editor’s work?
Most editing companies have refund policies, but freelancers may not.
Before hiring an editor, always:
✅ Check their reviews & sample edits.
✅ Understand their revision policies.
✅ Clarify refund terms in the contract.
Do editing companies also help with book marketing?
Some premium editing companies offer marketing support, including:
- Author branding
- Press releases & PR services
- Amazon advertising & book promotions
If you plan to self-publish, consider services that also offer marketing assistance.
Where can I find affordable book editing services?
If you’re on a budget, consider:
- Fiverr – Cheap freelance editors.
- Reedsy – Mid-range pricing with vetted professionals.
- BubbleCow – Affordable developmental editing for fiction authors.
For serious authors, investing in high-quality editing is worth the cost.
