Author M.J. Rose and publicist/author Amy Edelman, writing for the Huffington Post on the subject of “tough love” for self-published authors, had this to say about a writer’s need for an editor:

“Self or traditionally published, you need to produce the very best book that you can.

“That means being committed enough to rewrite your book three, four or twenty-five times. Even pros who have been at it for years and have dozens of books under their belts don't have their first drafts published.

“So far it's the same for self-published or traditionally published authors. But then the traditionally pubbed author turns his or her book over to professional editors.

“If Lee Child, Sara Gruen, Laura Lippman and Jennifer Weiner all get edited, can self-published authors afford not to do the same thing?

“Yes, an editor costs money. And yes, an editor might require you to do more rewrites. Yes, you might be tired of writing the book and not even want to work on it anymore.

“But if your goal is to sell books, get readers, and build word of mouth -- you absolutely need professional help.

“It's like cooking. Just because you can scramble eggs doesn't mean you can make a soufflé. 99.9% of all books can be improved by a good editor (and we're not talking about your sister or your great Aunt Mary, unless they are editors by trade).

“What if you don't have the funds? Barter. We're in a recession... maybe you can find someone who will agree to get paid in installments. Do whatever you can but whatever you do -- don't spend a dime until you see examples of their work and get references. You have probably put a lot of time and work into this project. Your name will be on the cover. Do yourself proud.”