self-editing — Blog | Tips, Strategies, & Resources for Nonfiction Authors

PhD-Level Tips for Writing a History Book That Isn’t Boring

How to write a narrative history that general readers will love.

Authors, History, WritingDaniel J. TortoraJune 15, 2026author tips, family history, biographies, developmental editing, copy editing, manuscript evaluation, book coaching, writing, self-editing

The Best Books on Grammar and Punctuation for Writers in the US

Recommended books on English grammar for authors, editors, and educators.

Authors, EditingDaniel J. TortoraApril 13, 2026Amazon, book recommendations, copy editing, editing, first draft, gift ideas, line editing, proofreading, self-editing, self-publishing, Chicago Manual of Style, grammar

15 Amazon KDP Self‑Publishing Mistakes That Will Cost You Readers

Self-publishing tips for Amazon KDP authors from a nonfiction editor and book coach.

The Best Books for Editors

Recommended books on book editing—fiction and nonfiction.

Authors, EditingDaniel J. TortoraJune 22, 2025Amazon, book recommendations, copy editing, developmental editing, editing, first draft, gift ideas, line editing, manuscript evaluation, proofreading, self-editing, self-publishing, Chicago Manual of Style

Nonfiction Copy Editing Services: What Does a Copy Editor Do and How Much Does Copy Editing Cost?

The basics of copyediting for books—and its cost. Written by a nonfiction book editor.

Authors, Editing, WritingDaniel J. TortoraMarch 28, 2023author tips, copy editing, nonfiction, editing, self-editing, Chicago Manual of Style

Authors: What Is a Manuscript Evaluation? How Much Does It Cost? And Hiring an Editor

What is a manuscript evaluation? How much does it cost? Is it worth it? What’s the process? How long does it take? And tips for finding and hiring an editor.

Authors, Writing, EditingDaniel J. TortoraAugust 29, 2022author tips, manuscript evaluation, developmental editing, editing, first draft, nonfiction, self-editing, traditional publishing, self-publishing