Let’s talk numbers, because sooner or later, every author asks this question.
As a USA Today bestselling author and native German translator, I offer a full-service translation package at 0.06€ per word. For a 100,000-word novel, that totals 6,000€. Yes, that’s a real investment, but it’s also an extremely competitive rate for a highly specialized, creative, and time-intensive service.
To put things in perspective: some high-end literary translators charge 0.25€ per word. For a 100K-word novel, that would be 25,000€. Even if they offer a volume discount, you’re still looking at the price of a small car. No one can afford that. That’s why I offer a fair, transparent rate that reflects the level of quality, creativity, and care your book deserves, especially if you’re serious about building a lasting readership in a new market.
So what are you actually paying for? And why does it take that much time and effort? Let me show you what goes on behind the scenes.
You’re Not Just Paying for a Translation. You’re Commissioning a New Book
Translating a novel isn’t a mechanical word swap. It’s a complete creative rewrite.
Every sentence has to be restructured for flow, clarity, and tone. Humor, emotion, rhythm, character voice, maybe even rhymes—everything needs to be captured in a brand-new language. Think of it less like translating, and more like ghostwriting a new version of your book. That’s the level of creativity, skill, and expertise involved.
My Price Includes Editing and Proofing. No Hidden Costs
If you’ve ever hired a proofreader or editor for your original book, you already know those costs add up quickly.
In the German market, professional proofreaders often charge up to 2,000€ for a 100K-word manuscript. My full-service book translation includes both editing and proofing (by a human, not a machine), so your final book is ready for publication.
Blurb Translation and Title Research Are Included
Blurb writing is an art. Translating one is even trickier.
I don’t just translate your blurb word-for-word. I rework the language to make it emotionally gripping for a new audience. Same goes for the title. I research rhythm, tone, market fit, and even title protection laws in Germany (Yep, that’s a real thing. For more info, read my blog post Legal Requirements for Publishing in Germany).
For longer series, title translation alone can become its own mini project.
You’re Getting Up to 3 Months of Full-Time Work
Let’s zoom out for a second. 100,000 words over 10–12 weeks = roughly 2.5 to 3 months of work.
This includes:
- If time allows it, reading the book or series before I start
- Software setup (Translation Memory, Termbase, etc.)
- Ongoing communication with you
- Multiple polishing drafts
- Coordination with editors
If we were talking about ghostwriting an original book over the same time frame, 6,000€ would be a steal.
I Flag Mistakes and Ask Questions
Even if you send me a polished manuscript, I’ll still catch typos, awkward sentences, or missing context that would affect the translation. I don’t just guess. I ask. You’ll get notes where I flag issues or ask for clarification to avoid misinterpretation.
Formatting Isn’t Just Copy-Paste
Every language has its own rules when it comes to punctuation, layout, and typography. Whether I’m translating from English to German or the other way around, the manuscript needs careful reformatting.
This includes:
- Adjusting quotation marks to fit the target language
- Tweaking em dashes, ellipses, and apostrophes
- Ensuring consistent spacing and line breaks
These details might seem small, but they make a big difference in how polished and professional your final book looks.
No Hidden Fees or Surprises
What I quote is what you pay. My price includes the whole package: editing, proofing, formatting, blurb translation, title translation, and even PayPal’s transaction fees. You won’t get hit with unexpected add-ons or “extras” halfway through the project. Transparent pricing from the start.
Bottom Line: It’s an Investment, Not Just a Service
You’re not buying a digital file. You’re commissioning an immersive, culturally adapted version of your novel that feels native to new readers. That’s how you build trust, fanbases, and get actual sales in new markets.
Curious About My Step-by-Step Process?
Check out my post: My Book Translation Process in 10 Steps
Ready to Bring Your Book to a New Audience?
If you’re serious about entering a new market and want a translator who treats your book like her own, get in touch with me here. I’d love to hear about your project!
