15 Best Book Editing Services in 2026 for Christian Book Authors

Writing a book takes time, but finishing the manuscript is only one part of the job. Before readers see your work, someone needs to check whether the story flows, the message is clear, the sentences sound natural, and the small mistakes are gone.

For Christian authors, there can be another layer. A book may include Bible verses, Scripture references, faith-based language, theological ideas, or denominational terms. 

That means the right editor needs to understand more than grammar. Good Christian book editing services should help improve the writing while respecting the author’s message and checking important faith-related details.

This blog post compares 15 best book editing services that authors can consider in 2026. We look at the type of editing offered, pricing, editor experience, turnaround, AI policies where publicly stated, strengths, limitations, and who each service may suit best. Pricing can change, so treat published figures as a starting point and request a current quote before ordering.

Which Book Editing Service Is Right for You?

Not every author needs the same type of editor. Some writers need faith-based expertise, while others want to choose an individual editor, combine editing with publishing, or find specialized academic support. This quick guide can help you identify which top book editing services may best fit your project. 

Quick tip: Treat this table as a starting point, not a final decision. Before hiring, compare the editor’s genre experience, sample work, editing scope, turnaround, pricing, and approach to AI-assisted editing.

Quick Comparison of the Best Book Editing Services

How to Read This Comparison: Pricing, turnaround times, AI policies, and service descriptions are based on information publicly available from each company’s website or other stated sources at the time of research. Availability and pricing can change, so authors should confirm current terms directly with the provider before purchasing. Company-reported testimonials, results, and claims have not been treated as independently verified performance evidence.

How We Researched These Book Editing Services

We reviewed each company’s official website to compare its book editing services, pricing, editor qualifications, turnaround times, AI policies, sample-edit options, and publishing support. 

Where details were unclear or unavailable, we noted the limitation rather than making assumptions. Pricing is presented around a 45,000-word manuscript where comparable information was available.

Our comparison focuses on information authors can evaluate before hiring. This can help authors compare the best book editing companies based on factors they can actually check, rather than relying only on promotional claims. 

Authors should confirm current pricing, availability, and service terms directly with the provider before making a decision.

What Is Book Editing? Types Explained

Book editing is the process of improving a manuscript before publication. It can involve large changes to the structure of a book or small corrections to spelling and punctuation.

Developmental Editing

Developmental editing looks at the big picture. For fiction, this can include plot, characters, pacing, structure, point of view, and story logic.

For nonfiction, it can include organization, argument, repetition, clarity, and whether each chapter supports the main message.

Line Editing

Line editing focuses on how the writing sounds and flows.

The editor may improve awkward sentences, remove unnecessary words, strengthen transitions, and make the prose easier to read without changing the author’s voice.

Copy Editing

Copyediting is more technical. It checks grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization, consistency, word usage, and other language details.

A copyeditor may also create or follow a style sheet so names, terms, numbers, and formatting remain consistent.

Proofreading

Proofreading is usually the final check.

It looks for small errors that remain after editing, such as typos, punctuation mistakes, spacing problems, or formatting inconsistencies.

Manuscript Evaluation

A manuscript evaluation or critique gives the author a professional opinion about the larger strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript without necessarily editing every sentence.

Which Type of Editing Does Your Book Need?

If your book has major story or structure problems, start with developmental editing.
If the structure works but the writing feels rough, consider line editing.
If the manuscript is already strong and mainly needs technical cleanup, copyediting may be enough.
Proofreading should usually happen near the end.

Book Editing Services by Genre and Manuscript Type

Different books need different editorial skills.

Fiction Book Editing

Fiction editors may focus on plot, character development, dialogue, pacing, point of view, and consistency.

Nonfiction Book Editing

Nonfiction editors may focus on structure, clarity, evidence, repetition, tone, and whether the book delivers what the title and introduction promise.

Christian Book Editing

Christian books can include devotionals, Bible studies, sermons, testimonies, Christian living books, memoirs, novels, and ministry resources.

An editor working on these books should know that changing one word in a Bible quotation or reference can matter. Authors may therefore want to ask whether the editor can review Scripture references separately from ordinary copyediting.

Memoir and Biography Editing

Memoirs need an editor who can protect the author’s personal voice while helping the story stay clear and engaging.

Self-Help and Inspirational Book Editing

These books often need strong organization. Readers should be able to understand the main lesson and know what to do with it.

Academic and Professional Book Editing

Academic books may require subject knowledge, citation awareness, technical terminology, and careful consistency across chapters.

How Does AI Editing Differ from Traditional Human Editors?

AI can find many surface-level problems quickly. It can suggest a shorter sentence, identify repeated words, or point out possible grammar issues.

A human editor does more than search for patterns. A human can ask whether a sentence makes sense in context, whether an argument is convincing, whether a character sounds believable, or whether changing a sentence would damage the author’s voice.

What AI Editing Can Do

AI can help with:

• Grammar suggestions
• Spelling checks
• Repeated words
• Basic readability suggestions
• Sentence alternatives
• First-pass checks

What Human Editors Do Differently

Human editors can understand the larger purpose of the manuscript and make decisions based on context.

For a Christian book, that can be especially important when a sentence has theological meaning or when a Bible reference needs careful attention.

AI Editing vs. Human Book Editing

Neither approach should be treated as identical.

Some services use AI as an internal support tool while a human editor remains responsible for the final work. Scribendi, for example, says its editors use AI tools to help identify possible issues, while the human editor reviews the manuscript and makes the final decisions.

Other services take a fully human approach. Editor World states that it does not use AI tools at any stage of its editing process, while The Editorial Department also says its work is not AI-based.

When Should Authors Use AI Editing?

If you use AI before hiring an editor, tell the editor.

That information helps the editor understand what kind of review your manuscript may need. It is also worth asking an editing company exactly what it means by “AI-assisted” because companies can use that term in different ways.

The Top 15 Book Editing Services of 2026

1. Faith Bridge Publishers

Overview

Faith Bridge Publishers focuses specifically on Christian authors and offers Christian book editing alongside broader publishing support. Its editing services cover proofreading, copyediting, manuscript editing, Scripture and Bible reference review, and spelling and grammar review.

The company says it works with authors from Protestant, Catholic, and non-denominational backgrounds and aims to preserve the author’s voice and doctrine while improving the manuscript.

Strengths

• Christian-focused editorial positioning
• Scripture and Bible reference review
• Proofreading and copyediting
• Manuscript editing
• Support for different Christian book types
• Free sample edit before commitment

Limits: Pricing is quote-based, and the company does not currently publish a standard 45,000-word rate on its editing page. Turnaround also depends on manuscript length and service type.

Types of Book Editing: Faith Bridge lists proofreading, copyediting, manuscript editing, Scripture and Bible reference review, and spelling and grammar review.

Pricing: Custom quote. The company says pricing depends on word count, genre, and service.

Editor Experience and Expertise: The clearest differentiator is the company’s Christian publishing focus. Its public service information emphasizes familiarity with Scripture, Christian terminology, and faith-based manuscripts.

What I Loved: What stands out is the separate Scripture and Bible reference review. That gives Christian authors a specific place to address an issue that ordinary grammar editing may not cover.

Best For: Christian authors writing devotionals, Bible studies, testimonies, sermons, Christian nonfiction, or other faith-based books.

Ideas and Additional Services: Authors who need more than editing can also explore Faith Bridge’s broader publishing, design, formatting, printing, and marketing support. This can be useful for writers looking for an all-in-one top book editing company with additional publishing services. 

Tips Before Hiring: Ask exactly which Bible translation will be used when checking quotations and whether theological or doctrinal concerns are reviewed as part of the editing package or need a separate review.

Important Points to Know: A specialized Christian editor can help with faith-specific language, but authors should still review every theological change themselves. Editing should support your message, not replace your responsibility for what the book teaches.

2. Reedsy

Source: Reedsy

Overview

Reedsy takes a different approach from traditional editing companies by connecting authors with a curated network of professional freelance editors. Authors can review individual editor profiles, experience, genres, and services before requesting quotes. 

Its marketplace covers developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading, and manuscript assessment, giving writers more control over finding an editor who fits their particular book.

Strengths

• Large pool of professional editors
• Authors can compare individual editor profiles
• Different editing types
• Genre-specific matching
• Published average pricing data

Limits: There is no single Reedsy editor. Your experience depends on the professional you select. Exact prices and timelines also vary.

Types of Book Editing: Editorial assessments, developmental editing, copyediting, proofreading, and combined editing services are available through the marketplace.

Pricing: Using Reedsy’s published average of $0.028 per word for developmental editing, 45,000 words would be about $1,260. Copyediting at $0.021 would be about $945, while proofreading at $0.015 would be about $675.

These are averages, not guaranteed quotes.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Reedsy’s model lets authors inspect individual professionals and choose an editor based on experience and genre.

What I Loved: The biggest practical benefit is control. Instead of being given one unknown editor, you can research the professional before deciding.

Best For: Authors who want to compare several freelance editors and choose their own fit.

Ideas and Additional Services: You can also find other publishing professionals through the broader Reedsy marketplace.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask the editor whether they have worked on Christian books or your specific genre. A general fiction editor is not automatically the right choice for a theological nonfiction book.

Important Points to Know: Reedsy’s published rates are averages across many projects. Your manuscript may cost more or less depending on genre, condition, length, and editor experience.

3. NY Book Editors

Source: NY Book Editors

Overview

NY Book Editors connects authors with experienced publishing professionals who have worked with major publishing houses and independent authors. The company offers several levels of editorial support, from manuscript critiques to comprehensive editing, copyediting, and proofreading. 

Its editor-matching process and trial edits help authors understand an editor’s approach before committing to a full manuscript.

Strengths

• Experienced publishing professionals
• Editor matching
• Trial edit
• Manuscript critique
• Comprehensive editing
• Copyediting
• Coaching and follow-up support

Limits: Pricing is customized rather than presented as one simple public per-word rate. The service also focuses on completed manuscripts and has a 30,000-word minimum for editing through its current application process.

Types of Book Editing: The main services include manuscript critique, comprehensive editing, copyediting, line editing, proofreading, coaching, and related publishing support.

Pricing: Custom quote. The company asks for your manuscript details and word count before providing an estimate.

Editor Experience and Expertise: NY Book Editors says its editors have worked with major publishing houses including Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, and Hachette.

What I Loved: The trial edit is useful because editing is personal. Two skilled editors can make different choices, and an author should feel comfortable with the editor’s style.

Best For: Authors who want an experienced publishing editor and a more hands-on matching process.

Ideas and Additional Services: Authors can add coaching, query letter editing, proposal support, and other services depending on their publishing route.

Tips Before Hiring: Use the trial edit to ask yourself a simple question: does this editor understand what I am trying to say, or are they simply changing sentences?

Important Points to Know: The company’s published timelines vary by service. Its current service information lists about 5–7 weeks for a manuscript critique, 6–12 weeks for a comprehensive edit, and 3–5 weeks for copyediting.

4. Kirkus Editorial

Source: Kirkus Editorial

Overview

Kirkus Editorial provides professional book editing through editors with backgrounds in traditional publishing, independent publishing, and academic presses. Authors can choose from basic copyediting, collaborative editing, and more comprehensive editorial packages. 

The company also provides proofreading and related publishing services, making it an option for writers who want structured editorial support as they prepare a manuscript for publication.

Strengths

• Strong publishing background among editors
• Structured editorial process
• Copyediting
• Developmental-style collaborative editing
• Proofreading
• One-hour consultation with higher-level services
• Formatting and cover design options

Limits: The pricing can become substantial when an author chooses multiple editing stages. Christian specialization is not the main focus of the service.

Types of Book Editing: Basic copyediting, collaborative editing, and a professional editing package are the main options.

Pricing: Kirkus currently lists basic copyediting at $0.02 per word with a $500 minimum. For 45,000 words, that is about $900.

Collaborative editing is listed at $99 plus $0.03 per word, or about $1,449 for 45,000 words.

The professional package is $99 plus $0.065 per word, or about $3,024 for 45,000 words, subject to the company’s package and minimum-stage terms.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Kirkus says its editors must have experience with major national publishers or equivalent expertise and pass editing tests.

What I Loved: The multi-stage process makes sense for authors who want to treat editing as a series of steps rather than one giant correction session.

Best For: Authors who want a structured editorial process and access to editors with traditional publishing experience.

Ideas and Additional Services: Kirkus also offers formatting and cover design, which can help authors who want several parts of book preparation handled in one place.

Tips Before Hiring: If your manuscript has large structural problems, do not spend your entire budget on proofreading. Fix the big issues first.

Important Points to Know: Kirkus lists standard turnaround times of 15 business days for basic copyediting, 20 business days for collaborative editing, and 10 business days for proofreading.

5. Scribendi

Source: Scribendi

Overview

Scribendi is a long-established online editing company offering services for authors, businesses, students, and professionals. Its book-related services include editing, proofreading, manuscript critique, and other writing support. 

The company works with both fiction and nonfiction authors and also explains how its editors may use AI-assisted tools while retaining human responsibility for reviewing and finalizing editorial changes.

Strengths

• Long operating history
• Book editing and proofreading
• Fiction and nonfiction support
• Human editorial review
• Clear explanation of AI-assisted workflow
• Online ordering

Limits: Scribendi is not focused specifically on Christian books. Authors looking for Scripture-specific review should ask whether that expertise is available for their project.

Types of Book Editing: Book editing, proofreading, book critiques, script editing, and query-related services are available.

Pricing: Scribendi’s current pricing system is based mainly on word count and turnaround time, but a single public 45,000-word book-editing price is not presented on the main site.

Editor Experience and Expertise: The company reports a large global client base and decades of experience. Its author services cover fiction and nonfiction.

What I Loved: Its AI policy is unusually clear. Scribendi does not pretend that technology is absent. Instead, it explains that human editors remain responsible for the final editorial decisions.

Best For: Authors who want an established online editing service and are comfortable with a human-led workflow that may use AI support tools.

Ideas and Additional Services: Authors can also explore proofreading, critiques, scripts, and query package services.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask whether the editor assigned to your project has worked in your exact genre and whether Christian or theological terminology is within their experience.

Important Points to Know: If avoiding AI completely is important to you, ask for a service that explicitly promises human-only editing rather than assuming that “human edited” means no AI tools are used.

6. BookBaby

Source: BookBaby

Overview

BookBaby combines book editing with a broader collection of publishing services, making it useful for authors who want support beyond manuscript preparation. Its editorial options include proofreading, copyediting, line editing, and deeper editorial assessment. 

Unlike companies that rely mainly on custom quotes, BookBaby publishes straightforward per-word pricing for several editing levels, helping authors estimate potential costs before ordering.

Strengths

• Clear published pricing
• Proofreading
• Copyediting
• Line editing
• Editorial assessment
• Publishing support
• Free sample editing offer

Limits: It is not a Christian-specific editing service. Authors with Scripture-heavy manuscripts should confirm whether specialized Bible-reference review is included.

Types of Book Editing: BookBaby offers proofreading, copyediting, and line editing, with deeper editorial assessment available for structural needs.

Pricing

Current published rates are:

• Proofreading: $0.015 per word
• Copyediting: $0.025 per word
• Line editing: $0.04 per word

For 45,000 words, that works out to about $675 for proofreading, $1,125 for copyediting, and $1,800 for line editing.

Editor Experience and Expertise: BookBaby’s service is designed around authors and publishing projects rather than only academic documents.

What I Loved: The pricing is easy for an author to understand. You can multiply the word count by the listed rate and get a useful starting estimate.

Best For: Authors who want editing and other publishing services from the same company.

Ideas and Additional Services: BookBaby can also support other parts of the publishing process, so it may be useful for authors who want a broader publishing partner.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask whether the service you choose includes only sentence-level corrections or whether the editor will also comment on structure, tone, and larger issues.

Important Points to Know: BookBaby says typical editing turnaround is about one to three weeks, with copyediting generally taking six to eight business days and line editing eight to ten business days for most manuscripts.

7. Editor World

Source: Editor World

Overview

Editor World gives authors direct control over the editing process by allowing them to browse editor profiles and select a professional based on experience and qualifications. 

The company provides developmental editing, copyediting, line editing, and proofreading for books and other content. It also offers sample editing and states that its editorial process does not use AI tools at any stage.

Strengths

• Transparent per-word pricing
• Choose your own editor
• Free sample edit
• Fiction and nonfiction support
• Human-only editing
• Editor profiles and credentials

Limits: The company is broader than Christian publishing, so Christian authors should check individual editor experience.

Types of Book Editing: Developmental editing, line editing, copyediting, proofreading, and manuscript editing are available.

Pricing: Editor World’s published book-editing rate starts at $0.021 per word for qualifying longer manuscripts at the slower turnaround tier.

At that rate, 45,000 words would start around $945.

Editor Experience and Expertise: The company says its editors are native English speakers from the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada and have verified credentials.

What I Loved: The ability to choose your editor is valuable. You can look for someone whose genre experience matches your manuscript rather than accepting a random assignment.

Best For: Authors who value transparent pricing and want to select their own editor.

Ideas and Additional Services: You can request a free sample edit and communicate with an editor before committing.

Tips Before Hiring: Look at the editor’s genre experience first. For example, a memoir editor may not be the right person for a theological reference book.

Important Points to Know: Editor World states that it uses no AI tools at any stage of its editing process. That policy is particularly useful for authors who want human-only editing.

8. The Editorial Department

Source: The Editorial Department

Overview

The Editorial Department offers hands-on editorial support designed around the needs of individual authors rather than a single fixed editing package. 

Its services include manuscript critique, developmental editing, line editing, copyediting, proofreading, and publishing guidance. 

The company emphasizes direct communication with experienced human editors and states that its editing work is performed without AI-based editorial tools.

Strengths

• Developmental editing
• Line and copyediting
• Manuscript critiques
• Publishing support
• Direct communication
• Human-only editing
• Customized service

Limits: Pricing is project-specific, so authors cannot simply use one public per-word rate for comparison.

Types of Book Editing: Developmental editing, line editing, copyediting, proofreading, and manuscript critique services are available.

Pricing: Custom quote.

The company says it provides price quotes based on the manuscript and author’s needs rather than forcing every project into one package.

Editor Experience and Expertise: The company emphasizes experienced human editors and direct access to the editor working on the project.

What I Loved: Its no-AI position is clear. The company states that its work is powered by human editors rather than automated editing tools.

Best For: Authors who want close editorial guidance and a customized process.

Ideas and Additional Services: Publishing support, self-publishing support, ghostwriting, and screenplay-related services are also available.

Tips Before Hiring: Be honest about your manuscript’s condition. If the book needs major restructuring, say so before asking for a copyedit.

Important Points to Know: The Editorial Department also emphasizes confidentiality and says its services are provided à la carte rather than requiring authors to buy fixed bundles.

9. Book Butchers

Source: Book Butchers

Overview

Book Butchers provides several levels of editing for fiction and nonfiction authors, ranging from lighter proofreading to deeper developmental work. 

Its services are organized into distinct packages, helping writers choose support based on the condition of their manuscript. The company also offers manuscript reviews and a free trial edit, giving authors a chance to see how an editor approaches their writing.

Strengths

• Fiction and nonfiction editing
• Proofreading
• Copyediting
• Line editing
• Developmental editing
• Manuscript review
• First-chapter critique
• Free trial edit

Limits: The branding may feel too informal for authors who prefer a traditional corporate presentation. Christian specialization is not the main focus.

Types of Book Editing: Its packages include proofreading, copyediting, line editing, developmental editing, manuscript review, and related writing services.

Pricing

Published package rates include approximately:

• Quick Kill: $0.02 per word
• Extra Bloody: $0.04 per word
• Perfect Murder: $0.06 per word

At 45,000 words, those rates equal approximately $900, $1,800, and $2,700, respectively.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Book Butchers says its editors have decades of experience and work with both fiction and nonfiction manuscripts.

What I Loved: The free trial edit is useful because authors can see how an editor handles their actual writing before paying for the full project.

Best For: Authors who want several editing levels, prefer to test an editor before committing, and are comparing affordable book editing services with different levels of support. 

Ideas and Additional Services: The company also offers first-chapter critiques, ghostwriting, book marketing resources, and publishing-related support.

Tips Before Hiring: Do not choose the most expensive package simply because it sounds more complete. Match the service to the actual problems in your manuscript.

Important Points to Know: The company’s packages are quite different from one another, so compare exactly what each package includes before looking only at the per-word price.

10. First Editing

Source: First Editing

Overview

First Editing provides professional editing for fiction, nonfiction, and other forms of written content, with different service levels based on a manuscript’s needs. 

Authors can request a free editing sample before moving forward, which provides a practical way to judge the editor’s approach. The company also highlights experienced editors, flexible turnaround options, and a satisfaction-focused service model.

Strengths

• Free editing sample
• Fiction and nonfiction
• Different editing levels
• Editor matching
• Satisfaction guarantee
• Published pricing guidance

Limits: Its published pricing information is broad rather than a single current book-editing price for every manuscript.

Types of Book Editing: Services can cover structural issues, clarity, flow, copyediting, proofreading, and other manuscript needs.

Pricing: First Editing states that basic rates range from about $0.01 to just over $0.03 per word. Its published examples put basic copyediting that does not require rush delivery at roughly $0.0097–$0.013 per word.

At those basic-copy rates, 45,000 words would be about $437–$585.

A custom quote is still needed because editing level, manuscript type, length, and turnaround affect the final price.

Editor Experience and Expertise: First Editing says its editors have at least 10 years of professional writing and editing experience.

What I Loved: The free sample gives authors a practical way to judge the quality of the editing before committing to a full manuscript.

Best For: Authors who want a sample edit and flexible editing options.

Ideas and Additional Services: The company handles many document types, so authors may also use it for query letters, essays, websites, and other written material.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask for the editing level in writing. “Book editing” can mean very different things depending on whether the service is developmental, line, copy, or proofreading.

Important Points to Know: First Editing has published older guidance stating that longer manuscripts generally take around seven to ten business days, while rush options may be available. Confirm the current timeline for your specific book before ordering.

11. Wordvice

Source: Wordvice

Overview

Wordvice is an international editing company best known for academic, research, and professional writing, with a large network of editors who have advanced academic backgrounds. 

Its expertise can be useful for authors preparing scholarly or highly specialized books. However, its public services and pricing are more heavily centered on academic documents, so book authors should confirm that their manuscript fits its current editorial offerings.

Strengths

• Large editor network
• Subject-area expertise
• Advanced-degree editors
• Academic and professional editing
• Strong document-security information
• Fast turnaround options

Limits: Its public pricing is primarily built around academic, admissions, and business documents rather than a simple 45,000-word trade-book price.

Types of Book Editing: Wordvice offers editing and proofreading for long-form academic and professional writing. Authors should confirm whether their specific book project fits the current service scope.

Pricing: A book-specific 45,000-word price is not clearly published on the main pricing page.

For its listed academic and business services, prices vary by editing level and turnaround, so a book author should request a project-specific quote.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Wordvice says it has more than 2,000 expert editors, many with master’s or doctoral degrees and more than 10 years of average editing experience. 

What I Loved: The subject-matter matching can be useful when the manuscript contains specialized academic language.

Best For: Academic authors, researchers, professors, and writers working on highly technical nonfiction.

Ideas and Additional Services: Wordvice also provides proofreading and editing for academic papers, theses, dissertations, admissions documents, and professional writing.

Tips Before Hiring: If your book is a devotional or Christian trade book, ask whether the assigned editor regularly works with books rather than only academic papers.

Important Points to Know: Do not assume that a strong academic editor is automatically a strong fiction or devotional editor. Genre experience still matters.

12. Editage

Source: Editage

Overview

Editage has a strong background in academic publishing and provides specialized book editing alongside broader publication support. Its services can cover language, structure, technical accuracy, formatting, proposals, and publisher selection. 

This makes it particularly relevant to academic and research-based authors who need more than sentence-level editing. Authors can also choose between different levels of book editing based on manuscript needs.

Strengths

• Dedicated book editing service
• Academic and subject-area expertise
• Advanced and premium editing levels
• Book proposal support
• Publisher selection
• Formatting and cover support
• Multiple rounds of re-editing

Limits: Its strongest specialization is academic and research-oriented publishing. A Christian trade author should confirm that the assigned editor fits the manuscript’s genre.

Types of Book Editing: Editage offers advanced and premium book editing, proofreading, book publication support, formatting, typesetting, proposal preparation, and publisher selection.

Pricing: Editage currently lists advanced book editing from $0.04 per word and premium editing from $0.06 per word.

For 45,000 words, that is about $1,800 for advanced editing or $2,700 for premium editing.

Editor Experience and Expertise: : Editage says its book publication service uses experts from the relevant subject area and supports academic and international publishing.

What I Loved: The service goes beyond correcting sentences. Authors can also get help with publisher selection, proposals, showcase chapters, formatting, and submission management.

Best For: Academic authors and specialized nonfiction writers who need both editorial and publishing support.

Ideas and Additional Services: The wider book-publication package can include publisher selection, proposal creation, showcase chapter preparation, editing, submission management, cover design, ebook indexing, and typesetting.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask whether the assigned editor has experience with your exact type of book. A research monograph and a Christian inspirational book require different editorial instincts.

Important Points to Know: Editage also offers AI-related editing services, so authors who want a human-only workflow should clarify which service and workflow will be used.

13. Enago

Source: Enago

Overview

Enago specializes heavily in academic and research publishing, including editing services for scholarly books and technical manuscripts. Its book editors cover a wide range of subject areas and include professionals with advanced academic qualifications. 

The service focuses on more than grammar, with attention to clarity, consistency, technical language, and subject-specific writing, making it better suited to specialized nonfiction than general trade books.

Strengths

• Academic book specialization
• PhD-qualified editors
• Wide subject coverage
• Book proofreading
• Subject-matter expertise
• Academic publishing knowledge

Limits: Its main strength is academic publishing. It may not be the natural fit for a Christian novel, devotional, or general inspirational book.

Types of Book Editing: Enago offers book editing and proofreading, with attention to grammar, accuracy, style, content, consistency, and technical subject matter.

Pricing: Enago asks authors to request a quote for book projects. Its separate academic editing pricing calculator provides prices for shorter academic documents, but those rates should not be treated as a book-editing quote.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Enago says its book editors cover a vast number of subject areas and include PhD-qualified professionals.

What I Loved: The subject-area focus can be valuable when a book contains technical material that a general editor may not understand.

Best For: Academic books, research-based nonfiction, and technical manuscripts.

Ideas and Additional Services: Authors can also explore Enago’s academic editing and its AI-plus-human editing workflow.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask whether your project will be edited entirely by a human or whether Enago’s AI-assisted workflow is being used.

Important Points to Know: Enago openly offers AI English editing followed by human expert review. That is different from a human-only service, so authors should choose the workflow that matches their needs.

14. Proofed

Source: Proofed

Overview

Proofed provides professional editing and proofreading through a large network of editors and offers both on-demand and subscription-based services. Its current model emphasizes fast turnaround, which can appeal to authors working with tight deadlines. 

However, because much of its public service information focuses on professional and business content, book authors should confirm the available level of manuscript editing before submitting a full-length book.

Strengths

• Large editor network
• Fast turnaround
• Pay-as-you-go option
• Professional editing
• Subscription options for high-volume work

Limits: A full-length book is not the central focus of the current pricing page, and the published rates can be expensive for a long manuscript.

Types of Book Editing: Proofed offers editing and proofreading services, but authors should confirm the exact level of developmental or book-specific editing available for a full manuscript.

Pricing

The current on-demand rate starts at $78 per 1,000 words.

At that rate, 45,000 words would cost about $3,510.

That is a simple calculation from the published on-demand rate, not a guaranteed book quote.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Proofed says its global team includes more than 750 professional editors.

What I Loved: The fast turnaround can be useful when time is tight.

Best For: Authors who need professional proofreading or editing and have a project that fits Proofed’s current service model.

Ideas and Additional Services: High-volume users can consider Proofed’s Flex and Pro subscription options.

Tips Before Hiring: Do not order a fast general editing service for a book that needs developmental editing. Ask exactly what the editor will review.

Important Points to Know: A fast turnaround is only helpful if the editor has enough time to understand the manuscript. For a long book, careful editorial work should not be treated like a quick spell-check.

15. Edit911

Source: Edit911

Overview

Edit911 provides editing and proofreading through professionals with advanced academic backgrounds, including PhD-level editors and published authors. 

The company works on books, novels, dissertations, and other substantial manuscripts, making it relevant to both academic and general nonfiction writers. 

Its quote-based approach allows the service to consider the individual manuscript rather than applying one standard price to every project.

Strengths

• PhD editors
• Native English-speaking editors
• Book and novel editing
• Academic editing
• Long operating history
• Instant quote option

Limits: The service is strongly connected to academic and professional editing, so Christian authors should confirm genre-specific experience.

Types of Book Editing: Book editing, novel editing, copyediting, proofreading, manuscript editing, and academic editing are available.

Pricing: Edit911 uses a quote-based system for projects, so a fixed 45,000-word book price is not publicly listed on the main page.

Editor Experience and Expertise: Edit911 says its editors are PhDs, authors, and native English speakers. The company also reports editing more than 1.2 billion words since 1999.

What I Loved: The combination of advanced academic qualifications and book editing can be useful for authors working on scholarly or research-heavy books.

Best For: Academic authors, professional writers, nonfiction authors, and authors with technically demanding manuscripts.

Ideas and Additional Services: Authors can also explore dissertation-to-book transformation, academic editing, proofreading, and other writing services.

Tips Before Hiring: Ask whether the editor has worked on your genre. A PhD is useful evidence of education, but genre experience still matters.

Important Points to Know: The company offers an instant quote, so the best way to compare its cost with other services is to submit the same word count, manuscript type, and editing requirements you use elsewhere.

How to Choose the Best Book Editor for Your Book

Choosing an editor becomes easier when you stop asking, ‘Who is the best book editing company?’ and start asking, ‘What does my manuscript need? 

Match the Editor to Your Book’s Genre

A romance novel, Bible study, memoir, academic book, and devotional do not need exactly the same type of editor.

Look for someone who understands the kind of book you are writing.

Determine Which Type of Editing You Need

Do not pay for proofreading if your chapters are poorly organized.

Do not pay for a deep developmental edit if your manuscript is already structurally sound and only needs a final grammar check.

Check the Editor’s Experience and Qualifications

Look for real evidence.

That can include:

• Publishing experience
• Relevant education
• Genre experience
• Published books they have worked on
• Client reviews
• Sample edits
• Professional memberships
• Clear service descriptions

Review Editing Samples and Client Feedback

A sample tells you more than a fancy sales page. Even a famous book editor should be evaluated based on the quality of their actual editorial work and whether their approach fits your voice. 

Compare Pricing and Turnaround

Always compare the same service.

For example, $1,000 for proofreading and $1,000 for developmental editing are not equivalent. One service may take a few hours or days, while the other may involve a deep review of the entire manuscript.

Ask About AI Editing Policies

Ask a direct question:

“Is any AI tool used at any stage of editing my manuscript?”

Do not assume that every company uses the same process.

Look for Christian Book Editors With Relevant Experience

For a Christian manuscript, ask whether the editor has worked with:

• Bible studies
• Devotionals
• Sermons
• Christian nonfiction
• Testimonies
• Faith-based memoirs
• Christian fiction
• Scripture-heavy manuscripts

The goal is not to find an editor who agrees with every theological position. The goal is to find someone who can understand your intended message and handle faith-specific material carefully.

Confirm What the Editing Package Includes

Before paying, ask:

• What type of editing will I receive?
• How many rounds are included?
• Will I receive Track Changes?
• Will the editor provide comments?
• Is proofreading included?
• Will the editor check Bible references?
• What happens if I am unhappy?
• What is the exact delivery date?
• Is AI used?
• Who owns the edited material?

Getting these answers in writing can prevent problems later.

How to Hire a Book Editor: Step by Step

1. Define Your Editing Needs: Read your manuscript from beginning to end and make a simple list of its biggest problems.

2. Research Potential Editors: Start with services that have experience with your genre and manuscript type.

3. Compare Top Book Editing Services: Compare more than the price, and look at whether popular book editors offer the specific expertise your manuscript needs. Look at editor experience, editing type, turnaround, AI policy, samples, communication, and revision terms. 

4. Request a Sample Edit: A sample can show whether the editor understands your voice.

5. Compare Quotes and Packages: Make sure you are comparing the same level of service.

A cheap proofreading quote should not be compared directly with a full developmental edit.

6. Discuss the Editing Process: Ask how the editor will work through the manuscript and how you can communicate questions.

7. Review the Agreement: Check the price, scope, deadline, confidentiality terms, revision policy, and ownership terms before submitting the full manuscript.

8. Begin the Editing Project: Once everything is clear, send the final version of your manuscript.

Do not keep changing chapters while the editor is working unless the editor agrees. Large changes can make the editing process harder and may increase the cost.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right editor depends on your manuscript, genre, editing needs, budget, and publishing goals. For Christian authors, Christian editing services can provide added value when an editor understands Scripture, faith-based language, and the purpose behind the book. 

When comparing the best book editing services, look beyond price and consider the editor’s experience, editing scope, sample work, turnaround time, communication, and what the package includes. 

A lower price does not always mean better value, while a higher price does not guarantee better results. The right editor should improve clarity, structure, and readability without changing your unique voice. 

Take time to compare your options, confirm the current services and pricing, and choose an editor who understands both your manuscript and your message.

Frequently Asked Questions

About The Author

Haziel Stavros

Book Publishing Specialist

I am a writer for Faith Bridge Publishers with five years of professional experience in book writing, editing, publishing, and content development. My background blends editorial expertise with practical knowledge of manuscript development, proofreading, storytelling, and publishing standards, helping me create and review content with a strong understanding of the book publishing process. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and professional certifications in copyediting, proofreading, and book publishing.