Dublin Book PressAuthor-led publishing

Shape the strongest version

Developmental editing

Deep collaborative work on structure, pace, character, argument and reader experience—while protecting the voice that makes the manuscript yours.

Request a tailored scope
An extensively annotated literary manuscript representing deep developmental editing
Dublin Book Press · Author-led service

Who it is for

Authors with a complete draft who are ready to undertake meaningful structural or narrative revision.

What is included

A clearly defined professional scope.

  • Full manuscript analysis at structural and chapter level
  • Story arc, pacing, character and point-of-view guidance for fiction
  • Argument, organisation, evidence and reader journey guidance for nonfiction
  • Margin comments explaining reader response and revision opportunities
  • Collaborative consultation at key decision points

How it works

From enquiry to approved delivery.

  1. 01

    Agree the editorial brief and intended reader

  2. 02

    Complete the deep editorial pass

  3. 03

    Review the editorial letter and manuscript notes

  4. 04

    Revise with a clear roadmap and follow-up support

Questions before you begin

Developmental editing FAQs

Will you rewrite my book?

No. We guide, question and demonstrate options while the author retains creative ownership and makes the final decisions.

Does it include proofreading?

Not usually. Proofreading takes place after structural work and copy-editing are complete.

How many revision rounds are included?

Your proposal states the included review rounds and what qualifies as additional scope.

Can you work on both fiction and nonfiction?

Yes. Fiction work focuses on elements such as character, plot, pace and point of view; nonfiction work focuses on argument, structure, evidence and reader journey.

Should I copy-edit before developmental editing?

Usually not. Structural revisions can substantially change the text, so copy-editing is normally most efficient after developmental work is complete.

Request a proposal

Tell us about your manuscript.

Share the essentials and we will respond about fit, recommended scope and the information needed for an accurate proposal.

Prefer to speak with us? Call +353 1 575 4749.

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