Mystic Valley Press offers a variety of services tailored to meet the needs of authors at different stages in their careers. Our pricing reflects the complexity and effort involved in each project. Here are broad indicators to give you an idea of what to expect:

Developmental Editing:
Prices vary depending on the author’s experience and the manuscript's needs. For example:

• A first-time author's 50,000-word manuscript may start at $1,500.
• An experienced author with multiple books may start at $1,000, as we focus on refining the big-picture elements that still challenge even seasoned writers.

Line Editing and Copyediting:
The complexity of the manuscript plays a significant role. For instance:

• A 50,000-word book where English is not the author's native language might start at $1,500, as extra care is taken to preserve the author’s unique voice while ensuring clarity and polish.
• Manuscripts requiring moderate refinement may start at $1,000.

Proofreading:
Pricing depends on the number of errors per page.

• A clean manuscript requiring minor corrections might start at $500 for 50,000 words.
• A manuscript with more extensive errors might start at $750.

Audiobook Quality Control (Proofing):
We charge a flat rate based on the time required, rather than word count, since audiobook durations vary widely by narrator.

Rates generally start at $300 per project and include checking for skipped words, tone consistency, background noise, incorrect accents, and more.

• Custom Cover Design:
  Depending on complexity and style, custom covers range from $300–$800.
• Formatting (Print & Ebook):
  Prices for formatting range from $150–$500, depending on the manuscript’s layout requirements.
• Full-Service Publishing Package:
  A comprehensive package for authors seeking end-to-end support starts at $3,500 and includes editing, formatting, cover design, and marketing consultation.

Certainly! Here’s an example to provide context:

• Developmental Editing for a 50,000-word first-time manuscript: $1,500
• Cover Design: $500
• Formatting for Print and Ebook: $300
• Total Estimated Cost: $2,300

Absolutely. Each project is reviewed individually. Factors like an author’s experience, manuscript complexity, and specific goals are all considered when creating a proposal. Pricing is not determined by the author’s background or language proficiency but by the manuscript itself and the care needed to meet publishing standards.

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans tailored to your needs. Payment plans will be outlined and agreed upon in your project proposal.

Our full-service package covers:

• Developmental editing
• Copyediting
• Proofreading
• Custom cover design
• Print and ebook formatting
• Publishing to Amazon KDP and wide distribution platforms
• Marketing strategy consultation

Absolutely! Our services are available à la carte. You can choose only what you need, whether it’s editing, cover design, or marketing assistance.

Timelines vary depending on the scope of work. For example:

• Developmental editing for a 75,000-word manuscript typically takes 3–4 weeks.
• Cover design and formatting projects can take 4–6 weeks.

We’ll provide a clear timeline for your project during the proposal stage.

Getting started is simple! Fill out our form on the For Authors page, and we will review your submission. You can expect a response from us within 2–3 business days. Let’s work together to bring your cozy mystery to life!