Line editing

You’ve developed a solid story.

Now’s the time to let an editor make it shine.

Whether your longform writing is destined for print or digital publication — or for broadcast or podcast — line-editing works at the sentence and paragraph level to tighten and elevate prose.

This includes mechanical grammar checks for things like parallel construction and subject-verb agreement, and extends to more stylistic considerations of word choice, rhythm, flow and tone.

My line-editing services are prompt and thorough, with careful handling to preserve your narrative voice and with conversational annotations that explain suggested changes.

I also include light developmental editing for character development, pacing and scene continuity, as well as light copyediting for grammar, spelling and punctuation to reduce the proofreading burden.

For data-driven stories, I vet the math and methodology, plus “proofread” visual design for consistency of color and formatting.

And as an investigative journalist and fact-checker, I bring meticulous attention to word choice to preserve the original meaning and scope of every statement.

Maybe you need a fresh set of eyes on a project because you’ve been steeped in it for too long. Or maybe you just need a pinch-hitter because your newsroom is understaffed and your pipeline is overflowing.

Don’t let your hard work lose value while it waits for an edit.

“I can’t recommend Hilary’s services enough. …

“Her keen insights always help me deepen and strengthen my overarching ideas, and her line edits elevate my prose. …

“In addition, she approaches projects and clients with warmth and positivity. She’s truly a joy to work with.”

- Eden Mecham, Winner of the Missouri Review’s 2025 Editor’s Prize for Nonfiction for her essay "Safe Haven for Monsters"