A book doctor is an experienced copyeditor who provides deep structural editorial services to authors in the book publishing industry, such as developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, and proofreading. A book doctor may offer general advice about publishing processes and guide marketing and selling a book.
Book doctors are often employed in the United States, though their services are available all around the globe. Many successful authors have used book doctors at some point during their careers.
While some authors may see hiring an editor as admitting weakness, even successful authors can benefit from professional editorial assistance. Every author is flawed; even the best writers may require fresh eyes.
Suppose you’re contemplating hiring a book doctor. In that case, the first step should be finding someone qualified and trustworthy who meets both criteria. Once you find someone suitable to collaborate with, discuss your project and what goals you wish to accomplish; be honest regarding plans while listening for feedback – remember, a book doctor’s purpose is helping your manuscript improve, so be open-minded when receiving suggestions!
If you need more clarification on whether or not a book doctor is necessary, ask yourself this: Would you instead publish a manuscript that’s just good enough, or do you aim for excellence in every way possible? If you seek the latter, a book doctor may help you get there faster.