What is the standard editorial timeline for genre fiction novels?

Question

I'm signed with a publisher working on my first genre fiction novel. The editor is driving me crazy not getting her work done and putting the rewrites on me at the last minute up against the deadlines. Is this standard operating procedure in the industry, or should I contact the publisher with my concerns? Is there a normal timeline for how long I have to make the changes she suggests?

Answer 1

I understand your frustration. Sadly, the behavior of your publisher and their editorial team is normal. Pressure is on for every kind of writer these days. I don't think the editorial team are hoping you'll snap and give up, instead, they are preparing you for this line of work that can sometimes be stressful and unpleasant.

So, yes, what your publisher and their editorial team are doing to you is pretty standard. You will get used to it if you keep at it. You could raise small concerns to the publisher but I don't think they would like to hear that you need too much more time. Publishers are in the business of making money, not making authors happy.

Good Luck with whatever you decide to do.