The Book Editorial Expert

Services

Let's talk about
what we can do for you.

With fourteen years of experience as an editor, I truly understand the power of words. A manuscript is more than just text; instead, it reflects your passion, your story, and your voice. Therefore, I am committed to offering bespoke editorial services. Moreover, my approach is tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re a debut author or a seasoned writer, I am here to help you succeed. By working together, we can refine your work step by step. In the end, we’ll bring it to its fullest potential.

Here's how I can assist you in achieving your publishing goals:

Expert
Editing

Crafting compelling sentences is an art. As a skilled and qualified editor, I’m here to work closely with you. Together, we’ll elevate your language and enhance the flow, tone, and style of your writing. I’ll also focus on tightening awkward phrasing and fine-tuning dialogue. My goal is simple: to help you perfect every sentence. As a result, your message will connect with your audience and resonate deeply.

Comprehensive
Manuscript Evaluation

I will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your manuscript. This includes providing constructive feedback on plot, characterisation, pacing, and overall structure. Plus, my detailed evaluation will offer valuable insights into areas for improvement. These insights will empower you to refine your narrative and craft a story that captivates your readers.

Tailored
Publishing Guidance

Navigating the publishing process can be daunting. That’s why I’m here to offer personalized guidance at every step. I’ll help you understand the ever-changing landscape of the publishing industry. Whether you’re pursuing traditional publishing or exploring self-publishing options, I’m here to help. With valuable insights and practical advice, I’ll support you throughout your journey to successful publication.

Ongoing Support
and Collaboration

Your success is my top priority. From the initial consultation to the final edit, I’ll be there to support you every step of the way. I provide continuous guidance throughout the editing process, so you’ll never feel alone. With a collaborative approach, I keep your vision at the center. Together, we’ll bring your story to life in the most powerful and engaging way possible.

Offering

The Developmental Line Edit

I understand the importance of meticulous attention to detail, which is why I’m committed to elevating your work to its highest potential. With my Developmental Line Edit service, I thoroughly examine every aspect of your manuscript, leaving no stone unturned.

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Offering

the agent submission Service

Are you ready to take the next step toward publishing success? Look no further than my Agent Submission Service. I understand how important it is to find the right literary agent to represent your work. That’s why I’m here to guide you through the process with expertise and unwavering support.

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digital, pr and copywriting

As a trained digital journalist and copywriter, I understand the power of impactful messaging. Whether it’s for your author website, a press release, or a book blurb, I’m here to help you craft words that resonate.

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Offering

non-fiction developmental editing

Non-fiction developmental editing is a comprehensive and collaborative process that aims to refine and elevate your manuscript. This process ensures your work achieves clarity, coherence, and a strong connection with your intended audience. I will carefully analyse the structure, content, and presentation of your manuscript. Together, we’ll unlock its full potential and ensure your message resonates deeply with readers.

Offering

sensitivity/ inclusive editing

One invaluable service we offer is sensitivity reading. A crucial step in ensuring that your narrative authentically portrays diverse experiences and perspectives.

But what exactly is sensitivity reading, and why might you need it? Let’s explore the details.

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I am passionate about helping writers like you realise your publishing dreams. With my comprehensive editorial and digital services, you’ll have the tools and expertise you need to transform your manuscript into a novel you can be proud of. Contact me today to learn more about how I can support you on your writing journey.

Testimonials

WHAT MY CLIENTS ARE SAYING

Thanks to Shelley’s incisive, perceptive edit of my debut novel I was signed by an agent and secured a three book deal with Simon and Schuster, with a very lucrative advance. The book then went on to be shortlisted for the 2013 Costa Children’s award. I cannot recommend Shelley highly enough as an editor and I feel extremely fortunate to have worked with her at such a pivotal stage in my career.

Sarah Naughton

The Hanged Man Rises, Costa Book shortlisted

Shelley is a tremendously gifted editor. We first met at the Eve White Literary Agency and together worked on my YA novel Lovely me, Lovely You. It was runner-up in the 2011 Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction competition.
My second book, Adult psychological thriller Losing Juliet, was published in November 2016 by HarperCollins. I know for certain that I would never have got this deal if Shelley had not been involved in the editing. Her input was invaluable.
Working with her is a joy as she is able to read the author as well as the manuscript. She has a light but thorough touch which helps bring about significant improvement with each draft. (Yes there will be more than one!)
Through her influential PR skills and many connections, Shelley has also supported me in promoting Losing Juliet via social media. For example, she helped set up an interview with Liz Green on BBC Radio Leeds.
Her goal is to make you into the best writer you can be. She’s lovely, but don’t expect her to go easy on you!

June Taylor

Published Novelist, Losing Juliet

I was referred to Shelley by a literary agent who felt that my book needed further editing. I’d used literary agencies in the past, with mixed experiences, but Shelley seemed to offer something different – a truly personal service, rather than a fairly anonymous book report with little back-up. Not to mention an expertise in children’s and YA literature that is second to none.
Shelley was amazingly prompt. Within a week of sending off my manuscript, she returned a comprehensive set of notes, with both an overview of the book, its strengths and weaknesses, as well as suggestions for improvement. In addition, her line-by-line analysis of my prose helped me to identify habits and quirks I needed to attend to, as well as drawing attention to where I could further strengthen the narrative and characterization.
But above and beyond her skills as an editor and YA lit doctor, Shelley offered a level of emotional support that proved invaluable. At a point when I was ready to abandon my book completely, unable to see a way forward, Shelley’s resolute ‘kick up the backside’ was just what I needed. Her faith in the book motivated me to move past the obstacles I’d set up in my head and forge ahead. The revision did not actually prove as difficult as I feared, and undoubtedly made the book a lot stronger – when I resubmitted it to agents, I was lucky enough to gain considerable interest.

Emma Haughton

Published Novelist, Now you See Me

Shelley, you saw the heart in this story and made it beat stronger.

Lara Williamson

Usborne, A Boy Called Hope

Shelley was an indispensable help when I was editing my book for my agent. She gave me an insightful overview of where the book needed to be taken and then provided great encouragement and excellent feedback as I revised the manuscript chapter by chapter. Her enthusiasm and support were second to none.

Kate Scott

Boy in Tights

Her input included single line edits, helping me to a better understanding of my characters, highlighting inconsistencies in character and plot, and pointing out phrases which just sounded clunky or plain wrong! She seemed to really understand what I was aiming at with my story, and helped to pull out the drama and emotions. She did not hand me the answers to problems, but expected me to find them within me, and within the story itself. This was very empowering.
All of these things have helped me to write a much better book and made me more aware as a writer.
But aside from Shelley’s keen eye and literary know how, it was lovely working with her because she really seemed to understand the emotional side of being a writer. I appreciated her perspective and looked forward to her constructive, insightful and encouraging feedback. I always had the feeling that she cared, and that I mattered, and that made me feel good about my writing.
I would wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone who has a desire to improve.”

Wendy Storer

Bring Me Sunshine