Editors Are Worth The Money

If you're a writer, editor, publisher - or anyone who reads the New York Times, you've probably already heard about what happened to Mia Ballard. She's an indie author who self-published the novels, "Sugar" and "Shy Girl." "Shy Girl" was picked up by Hachette to traditionally publish in the US and UK. However, they discovered (a little too late) that the novel was written using AI. They pulled it from the UK market and won't be releasing it in the US in April as previously planned. When the news spread, Ballard came out and accused the editor she used before self-publishing of using AI to make edits; it wasn't she who used AI when writing the novel.

“In an email to The Times late on Thursday night, Ballard denied using A.I. to write 'Shy Girl,' contending that an acquaintance she hired to edit the self-published version of the novel had used A.I.” - Alexandra Alter, New York Times

Here are a few things to learn from what happened and how to choose a better editor.

You definitely want a credible editor

This tragic story is a great example for why authors (especially in indie publishing) should hire someone who won't use AI. Use a credible editor for every stage of editing. Use cover designers, manuscript formatters, and marketing specialists who don't use AI in their work. If they're working for you, their completed works reflect on you. No author should have to lose an opportunity like the one Ballard lost because AI touched their work.

Due your due diligence

Unsure how to go about finding a credible editor? When looking for an editor for your novel, do your due diligence. Trust me - it'll save you a lot of trouble later on. Do your research, ask your friends and network for recommendations, and DM the editors you're considering. Ask them about their education, experience, references, and for a free sample edit. A credible editor will expect all that, be understanding, and deliver.

As a self-published author, you own everything

Not only do you own the rights to do whatever you want with your work, you also own all the responsibility. That includes responsibility for the people you hire. Ballard should have looked into this before it got picked up by a big publisher, to ensure that AI wasn't in her manuscript. She may not have used AI personally to write the novel, but as a self-published author, she is essentially a small business owner and is, therefore, responsible for the editor she hired and the work they did. An editor should understand that and be a solid, trustworthy business partner.

Looking for a credible editor that doesn't use AI? Meet with me! I offer a FREE 15 minute consultation for you to see if we're a good fit. Real human. Trustworthy collaborator. No AI involved.