Timelines will vary depending on word count and depth of edits needed. Typically, edits will take between:

Developmental Edit: 3-6 weeks

Copy/Line: 4-8 weeks

Proofread: 2 weeks

Formatting: 2-4 weeks

Every contract has a termination clause which includes:

1. Client-Initiated Termination

2. Editor-Initiated Termination

3. Breach of Contract

4. Non-Communication

Desert Ink Editorial prides itself on maintaining excellent communication throughout the editing process and expects authors to communicate within a timely manner. When communication fails, projects get pushed, payments can be missed, and schedules are not respected. Due to this, if Desert Ink does not receive a response from an author following 2 attempts within 14 days, the author will be considered non-responsive, their contract will be voided, and no refunds will be provided. Further details can be found within an authors contract.

Desert Ink Editorial commits to delivering all editorial services exclusively through manual effort and personal expertise. No artificial intelligence (AI) tools, software, or platforms will be used in any capacity during the completion of the Author's project. This ensures that all editing, proofreading, and revisions are performed with human judgment and care, guaranteeing a personalized and thoughtful approach tailored to the Author's unique needs.

Every Author MUST confirm that the manuscript and all materials submitted to Desert Ink Editorial are the Author’s original work and have not been generated, in whole or in part, by artificial intelligence (AI) tools, software, or platforms, unless explicitly disclosed to the Editor in writing prior to the start of the project.

If any portion of a manuscript has been created or substantially assisted by AI, the Author agrees to disclose the extent and nature of such use. Desert Ink Editorial reserves the right to decline, terminate, or renegotiate the project if undisclosed AI-generated content is discovered at any point during the editing process.

This policy ensures that editorial services are performed on authentic, human-created work and that the Editor’s professional standards and reputation are upheld.

A rush request is any project requested with less than the standard turnaround time listed for that service. Please note estimated turnaround times in the “Estimated Editing Timelines” or within the project details specifically.

Desert Ink Editorial understands that deadlines can sneak up on us. Rush edits may be available depending on my current schedule and workload. Because rush projects require me to adjust my existing schedule and daily work times, they are subjects to a 15-30% rush fee. Rush requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and not guaranteed until confirm.

— Rush: 15% fee — 25% reduction in standard turnaround
— Expedited: 30% fee — 50% reduction in standard turnaround

The percentage is based on the total invoice and must be paid in full before the project’s end date.