. Will you steal my ideas or pass anything on to any third party?

 No. Trust is something you sense and build up. But I am a professional person with a reputation to protect. I am also a member of the Writers' Guild of Great Britain, ALCS and the NUJ - and have to follow a professional Code of Conduct.

. What if I don't agree with your editorial comments?

My editing will be both objective - i.e. proofreading - correcting typos, spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors etc and in some cases open to subjectivity - perceived flaws in plot or suggestions. Once flagged up, you will usually benefit from any notes. However, you are the author, not me - and the final say is yours. It's your book. It's my job to be very thorough and yours to say yay or nay.

. How long do you take?

My turnaround times are very reasonable. We will agree a set deadline that meets your requirements. I can do a quick turnaround at short notice for a premium.

. Can I call you up for a chat on my concerns or with questions?

Of course. I'm very accessible and available. I'll even ring you straight back, to a landline, so the call costs you nothing.

.  Do you have contacts that will help get my book sold?

 No, I'm sorry. My niche is editing your writing. However, I will be supportive of your publishing efforts.

 . You're a journalist. Can you advise me how to promote my book if I self publish?

 Absolutely. That is back within the realm of my area of expertise.