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Is it really author vs. editor when you get to the editing stage? Sometimes it can feel that way, especially if your editor has a lot of requests for changes… but it doesn’t have to be that way! It’s actually author desires vs. what the reader needs, and ideally an editor helps you navigate those competing priorities. In this episode, Liz and Ariel dive into the nuanced and often challenging dynamics between authors and editors. Liz shares her recent experience with feedback on a manuscript and the inherent tension that can arise even for seasoned writers and collaborators. The conversation covers the importance of editing, the emotional reactions it can provoke, and the intricate balance between staying true to an author’s vision and ensuring reader clarity. Key points of discussion include different editorial styles, the role of copy editors, and strategies for effective communication and feedback in the writing process. Whether you’re a writer, an editor, or somewhere in between, this episode offers valuable insights into the collaborative effort behind producing a successful book.

00:00  Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:47  Liz’s Recent Editing Experience

02:15  Navigating Feedback and Reactions

06:15  Ariel’s Editing Approach

09:57  Balancing Author and Reader Needs

21:03  Collaborator Challenges and Insights

27:32  Understanding the Editor’s Perspective

28:13  The Relationship Between Author and Manuscript

31:07  Navigating Feedback and Edits

33:34  The Role of Editors in the Writing Process

36:24  The Art of Giving and Receiving Feedback

38:46  The Hidden Code of Conduct Among Editors

43:03  The Importance of Copy Editors

45:40  Final Thoughts on Editing and Feedback

Want us to help you vet your idea and plan your book’s content from start to finish? Join us in October for Map Your Book!