FAQ
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What makes Penrose coaching different?
At Penrose, we believe coaching is about more than accountability check-ins or generic writing tips. Our approach is Spirit-led, rooted in Scripture, and backed by both training and experience. We’re published authors, professional editors, and committed Christians with a divine call to teach and encourage others.
We don’t just know about publishing—we’ve lived it. We’ve written books, released them into the world, and experienced the full spectrum of outcomes: the excitement of success, the sting of disappointment, and the challenges that come in between. That means we understand the emotional ups and downs of writing because we’ve walked through them ourselves.
We know what it feels like to be frustrated, insecure, burned out, unmotivated, or uncertain about the future of your writing. But we also know how to move forward when you feel stuck. Because we’re creatives ourselves, we not only empathize with your struggles—we’re also able to offer personalized, creative solutions that fit your unique personality, writing style, and goals.
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What if I find mistakes after publishing? Shouldn’t it be perfect if I spend this much money?
No book is ever 100% perfect—not even those produced by the largest traditional publishers. Our team reads every word, and multiple editors and proofreaders review your manuscript, but because we’re human, the occasional typo or small error can still slip through.
It’s also common for new errors to appear during the typesetting and formatting process—like word breaks, spacing issues, or even an accidentally missed correction. That’s why our packages include design proofreads and why Elite packages include Unlimited Typesetter Collaboration and our 90-Day Reprint Guarantee.
Perfection isn’t realistic, but excellence is—and our goal is always to deliver the cleanest, most professional manuscript possible. And if something does sneak through, we’re committed to making it right.
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Why is editing so expensive?
It may feel expensive compared to hiring a freelancer on Fiverr or Upwork, but the reality is—we are far below the industry standard rates set by the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA). The EFA is a professional organization that sets fair pay guidelines for editors, proofreaders, and other publishing professionals.
If you’d like to compare, you can use the EFA’s rate estimator tool to see what it would cost to hire individual freelancers for each stage of editing separately: Editorial Freelancers Association Rate Chart.
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Why would I spend this much money when I could just hire someone on Fiverr or Upwork?
If your only goal is to save money, platforms like Fiverr or Upwork can be an option. But at Penrose, our goal isn’t just to “fix” your words—it’s to invest in your project and in you as a writer.
We create long-lasting relationships with our authors, walking with them through the editing process and equipping them to grow in their calling as writers.
You’re not just paying for edits—you’re partnering with a team who is deeply committed to stewarding the story God has placed on your heart.
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What if I don’t have a Christian teaching book?
That’s okay! While our primary focus and marketing are centered on Christian teaching books, we also work with fiction, memoirs, children’s books, devotionals, and more. If God has placed a story on your heart, we want to help you steward it well—whatever the genre.
Our editorial and coaching process adapts to your project, so even if your book doesn’t fall under “Christian teaching,” you’ll still receive the same care, professionalism, and excellence that every author deserves.
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Do you have payment plan options?
Yes! We know investing in your book is a big decision, so we offer flexible payment plans. You can either pay in full or spread the cost out in monthly installments.
For most packages, we offer a 3-month plan (no additional fees) or a 6-month plan (with a small administrative fee). A deposit secures your spot on our calendar, and then the remaining balance is spread out according to the plan you choose.
This way, you don’t have to delay your book because of finances—you can move forward at a pace that works for you.
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What’s the difference between Message-to-Manuscript and Manuscript Makeover?
Message-to-Manuscript is for authors who don’t yet have a written draft. We take your sermons, lessons, or audio content and turn them into a 60,000-word manuscript, then carry it through editing, proofreading, and design checks until it’s typesetter-ready.
Manuscript Makeover is for authors who already have a draft. We refine it through developmental feedback, editing, proofreading, and design reviews, so it’s polished and professional. -
Do I need to have a finished manuscript to start coaching?
Not at all. Coaching is designed to meet you wherever you are in the writing process. Some authors come to us with nothing more than an idea they’ve been carrying for years, while others have a few chapters written—or even a full draft they’re not sure what to do with.
You don’t need a finished manuscript to benefit from coaching. What you do need is a willingness to commit to the process and take steady steps forward. Whether you’re brainstorming, outlining, drafting, or revising, we’ll provide clarity, accountability, and encouragement so you don’t feel stuck or alone. Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence to keep making progress until your book is complete.
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What is the difference between a Feedback Call and a Coaching Call?
A Feedback Call is focused entirely on your manuscript. It’s a one-on-one editorial check-in where you can ask questions about edits, clarify margin notes, or brainstorm solutions for tricky sections.
A Coaching Call, on the other hand, is broader. Coaching is designed to help with accountability, motivation, and developing habits or strategies for your overall writing journey.
In short: Feedback Calls help refine your book. Coaching Calls help grow you as a writer.
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Why would I spend this much money when I can just use AI?
AI can be a helpful tool—but it can’t replace the discernment, experience, or Spirit-led guidance of a real editor. AI doesn’t know your audience, your testimony, or the unique calling behind your book. It can rearrange words, but it can’t ensure your message is clear, the structure is strong, or the Scriptures are accurate.
When you work with us, you’re not just paying for clean sentences—you’re investing in a team of professionals who read every word, catch what machines miss, and refine your manuscript so it connects with readers on a heart level. We’ve walked the publishing road ourselves, and we know how to shape a manuscript that’s not only polished but purposeful.
AI may be able to give you something quick, but excellence requires the human touch—and your book deserves that level of care.
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Isn't coaching basically just therapy?
No—coaching isn’t therapy. But it does feel a little like sitting on the couch with a good friend who listens, encourages, and helps you think clearly.
We’re here to:
- help you find balance in your life so you can make space for writing.
- advise you on next steps in publishing.
- brainstorm ideas for your book.
- give feedback on sections you feel insecure about.
- cheer you on when you venture into new territory.
In that sense, coaching can feel therapeutic, but not in the clinical sense—more like the way your best friend becomes your “therapist” when you need someone safe to talk to who truly gets you.
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Do you help with publishing or marketing?
Our packages are strictly editorial—we focus on shaping your book into a clean, professional manuscript that’s ready for typesetting. That said, we don’t leave you stranded. We have a large network of trusted colleagues who specialize in every aspect of self-publishing and hybrid publishing, and we’re happy to connect you with the right support for your next step.
If you’re still deciding which direction to take, you can also check out our Publishing Paths mini-course, which walks you through the options and helps you choose the path that fits your goals.
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Do you use AI?
We occasionally use AI as a supplemental tool for administrative, organizational, or grammar-related tasks—things like sorting through material, catching simple patterns, or streamlining our internal process. But AI never replaces the careful, Spirit-led work of our editors.
Every word of your manuscript is read and reviewed by multiple human editors who preserve your voice and ensure your message is communicated with clarity. We will never leave the fate of your book in the hands of a machine—because nothing can replace the discernment and creativity of a real, live editor.
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How long will my book be?
Both editorial packages are built for Christian teaching books up to 60,000 words—which usually produces a 200–240 page book, depending on design and formatting. If you’d like something longer, that’s no problem. We charge $75 per 1,000 words beyond 60k for Message-to-Manuscript and $40 per 1,000 words for Manuscript Makeover.
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How long does the process take?
Every project is different, but most packages take 4–6 months from start to finish, depending on length, complexity, and author responsiveness. We’ll provide a detailed timeline once we review your content or manuscript.
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Will the book still sound like me?
Yes! That’s one of our top priorities. Our editors preserve your unique voice, teaching style, and message. In fact, part of line editing is specifically removing uncharacteristic words and phrases so your book sounds authentically yours.