Services
Whether you're just beginning your manuscript or preparing for publication, I offer professional editing services tailored to meet your needs. All services include a live video consultation and ongoing support during revisions. Not sure what service is right for you? Schedule a free discovery call:
Rates are based on the Editorial Rates calendar provided by the Editorial Freelancers Association
Manuscript Critique
A manuscript critique is a high-level evaluation of your unpublished or nearly completed draft. You’ll receive constructive feedback on structure, plot, characters, and narrative clarity—without any inline comments or direct edits. Ideal for early-stage drafts or authors seeking broad, professional guidance.
Includes:
Overall evaluation of plot, pacing, character arcs, and narrative voice
A 3–5 page editorial letter with developmental suggestions
20-minute video conference
Rate: 1.5¢ per word
Turnaround: Within 21 days of purchase
Developmental Edit
A developmental edit is a deep dive into your story. This service offers detailed feedback and line-level commentary on story structure, dialogue, character development, voice, and more. It also addresses potential issues like anachronisms or appropriation. Ideal for manuscripts ready to move into advanced revision or submission.
Includes:
Inline comments and suggestions throughout the manuscript
An 8–12 page editorial report outlining major areas for improvement
30-minute video conference
Follow-up email support during revisions
Rate: 3.2¢ per word
Turnaround: Within 28 days of scheduled start date
Copy/Line Edit
A copy/line edit is a line-by-line refinement of your manuscript, focused on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, word choice, tone, and clarity. This edit aims to elevate your prose while preserving your voice. Ideal for manuscripts that have gone through developmental editing and are nearing completion.
Includes:
Line-level edits for clarity, grammar, and readability
Suggestions for smoother phrasing and improved word choice
20-minute video conference
Rate: 2.8¢ per word
Turnaround: Within 21 days of purchase
Proofread
A proofread is the final polish before publication. I will check for grammar, punctuation, and typographical errors, while also offering light suggestions for clarity and consistency. Best suited for typeset or nearly finalized manuscripts.
Includes:
Line-by-line corrections for grammar, spelling, punctuation
Light feedback on redundancies and clarity
20-minute video conference
Rate: 1.5¢ per word
Turnaround: Within 21 days of purchase
Book Coaching
Book coaching offers structured, one-on-one guidance through the writing and publishing process. As your coach, I’ll help you set goals, stay accountable, and navigate the path to publication with clarity and support. Ideal for writers seeking long-term partnership and encouragement.
Includes:
Twice-monthly coaching calls
Email support between sessions
Custom tools, resources, and feedback tailored to your goals
Rates:
$250/month – 6-month package
$200/month – 12-month package
Not sure where to start?
Let’s talk! I offer a free 20-minute discovery call to discuss your project, your goals, and how I can help.
👉 Schedule your call now
About the Editor
Colin Mustful is the founder and editor of History Through Fiction. Mustful is an accomplished fiction and nonfiction writer who has published numerous novels, nonfiction essays and articles, and various other written resources and blog posts. Since launching History Through Fiction in 2019, Mustful has ushered three historical novels through the publication process and has received and evaluated hundreds of manuscript submissions. He has a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing with a concentration in publishing (Augsburg University, 2019) and a Master of Arts degree in history (Minnesota State University, Mankato, 2007). He is a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association, the ACES Society for Editing, and has a Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing.
Read Colin Mustful’s craft essay, Authorial Intrusion and the Civil War Narrative: How to Write History Through Fiction
Testimonials
"Colin is an excellent storyteller and a student of history. He offers constructive suggestions to bring my story to life, weaving historical facts into fiction authentically. I strongly recommend him as a writing coach for historical fiction."
Edward Sheehy, Author of Duty & Destiny
"Colin’s writing workshop hooked me! As a genealogist, I had never written creatively. His expert guidance and clear feedback have opened a whole new creative world for me. Colin is always direct, kind, and encouraging."
Lisa E. Oakley
"Colin provided a thorough developmental edit of my draft, offering detailed suggestions and resources to improve my writing. Thanks to his input, I have specific ideas to make my book more engaging for readers."
Bob Davis, Author of The Dominion of My Ancestors
"Colin is a masterful editor who specializes in historical fiction. His feedback was detailed and helpful, pointing out major flaws and providing motivation to improve my manuscript. I'm grateful to have him as my coach."
David K. Wessel, Author of Choosing Sides
"Colin guides writers through the editing process, resulting in a book that inspires and endures. His skills are crucial for achieving a book's desired goal."
Barry Babcock, Author of Bonga: A Safe Abode in the Wilderness
"Colin found errors missed by my publishing company and delivered ahead of schedule. His honest feedback and thorough edit have me confident my novel is polished and ready for release."
Amber Wiser Thompson, Author of City of Steel: A Damascus Love Story
"Colin's edits were thorough, thoughtful, and prompt. He answered my questions quickly and provided great insight into my manuscript. I highly recommend working with him!"
Lindsey Fera, Author of Muskets and Minuets and Muskets and Masquerades
"Colin's feedback provided motivation and clear next steps, balancing history and story. My revisions now feel directed and focused."
Jennifer Holder, Full Bloom Publications
"Colin’s critique opened new possibilities for my draft, allowing me to move the story to a new level I wanted but couldn't reach alone."
Jacques de Chabannes
"Colin's developmental edit pointed out issues like wandering point of view and stilted dialog. His insights are making me a better writer. Thanks, Colin!"
Todd Johnson, Author of The Jesus Effect