Obsidian Friday?

Is that how a real writer would put it? Black Friday seems so… common.

Well, however you’d say it, it’s here, and, in fact, almost over as I write this, because I just finished working on two editing projects today.

Meanwhile Dave has put together a set of editing packages to get you an edit from me for less money, or to help you give the writers in your life something that really shows them you “get them.” Investing in a professional edit for the writer in your life is more personal and unique than buying another journal that won’t get used, another real quill pen, or another mug that proclaims “Writer.” It’s a gift with unlimited potential.

How a school auction led to a finished novel

Last spring my daughter’s school held a fundraising auction. I offered an editing package that included a 50,000-word edit plus a few titles from our catalog (what better way to see our skills in action?). There were multiple bids, and the winning bidder purchased the editing package as a surprise birthday gift for her husband. We’re now collaborating on his manuscript. He is loving the edit, and I’m loving his book—a fabulous thriller in the style of The Day of the Jackal. It’s a great experience for us both, and he is really enjoying polishing his story. It’s encouraged him to finish his manuscript. In fact, he’s planning to start querying agents in 2026.

Choosing the right editing package

Our new editing packages are based on word count—from 5,000 to 100,000. If you or the writer in your life has never worked with a professional editor, consider our base package—5,000 words for $150 (on sale for $135 through November 30). It’s the perfect length for one or two short stories or a chapter or two of a longer work, an economical way to test the editorial waters.

More than an edit: real support for writers

One of the nicer perks the writer will get along with the edit is that I do Zoom calls (if desired) with every author, which gives the author a chance to ask questions, get publishing advice, and talk goals and ambitions. All authors who work with me are invited to our client-only monthly marketing meetings, where Dave discusses selling books, selling your author-persona, building a brand, publishing on social media, and so many other tools authors can use to build and grow a following.

See who we are and what we stand for

Not sure who we are or if we’re worth your trust? Check out our portfolio, resources, and videos. This month we’ve been doing a newsletter series on hiring an editor. You or the author in your life might find the information useful. See all our newsletters here. We’re also members of the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), and The Society for Editing (ACES).

A gift that lasts beyond the wrapping.

Another benefit of giving the gift of editing? It lasts past the holiday. Most of the time, the excitement of receiving a gift ends with opening the box. But an edit is an experience, a useful thing, an acknowledgment that you think of the person, or yourself, as a “for-real” writer. And it keeps on giving, in the form of our monthly marketing meetings, news of publishing opportunities, and other goodies we send out to our authors throughout the year.

Choose meaning over novelty

So, skip the Omaha Steaks, lottery tickets, bath bombs, and “Careful or you’ll end up in my novel” T-shirts. They’re soooo 2024. This season, give a gift to help you, or the author in your life, realize a dream.

Shop small. Support stories.

Shop small this year with our mom-and-pop publishing shop, and shop with intention for the writer in your life. Every purchase supports real editors doing meaningful work—helping writers grow, finish their manuscripts, and take the next step in their creative journey.

Happy Obsidian Friday… and Obsidian Weekend. May all the traffic be light!