Editing
I've written it — help me make it work. From a structural assessment of a whole manuscript down to a final copyedit or proofread before it goes out.
Editing →Editing and coaching for writers and academics.
I help people finish things they care about — novels, non-fiction books, dissertations, articles. Whether you need a full structural edit, a careful line edit, or just someone experienced to talk it through with, I'd be glad to hear what you're working on.
How I can help
Four ways people come to me
Fiction, non-fiction and academic work, across all four. If you're not sure which of these you need, that's an ordinary place to start — working it out is part of the job.
Writing
It needs writing, and I'd rather not write it. Ghostwriting for books and articles, published under your name, and copywriting for business and web.
Writing →Tutoring
Teach me how to do this. Usually one-off sessions on a specific skill — essay and journal article writing, research methods, craft.
Tutoring →Coaching
Stay alongside me while I do it. Ongoing support through a manuscript, a dissertation, or a first venture into self-publishing.
Coaching →I approach editing with the aim of strengthening the work. My intention is not to cut it down or change the story fundamentally, nor to remove your voice. I want your manuscript to really shine.
What to expect
Honest feedback, kindly given
Handing your manuscript to an editor is a nerve-wracking thing to do. I know — I write too. So here's how I work: I'll tell you plainly what isn't working and why, I'll show you examples from your own pages rather than talking in abstractions, and I'll always tell you what's good, because knowing your strengths matters just as much as knowing your weak spots.
You are never under any obligation to agree with me or to make a single change I suggest. It's your book. Ask me why I've suggested something and I'll happily explain my reasoning — that's what I'm here for.
- A detailed written editorial report, not just marked-up pages
- Specific examples pulled from your own manuscript
- Suggestions you can act on, not vague impressions
- Questions answered throughout your revisions — there's no time limit on asking
Tell me about your project
Send me a note about what you're working on and where you're stuck. I'll tell you honestly whether I'm the right person for it, and what I think it needs.