about_susie.jpg

EDITING, COPYWRITING, PROOFREADING

SUSIE (EDITOR) EXPLAINS:

MY APPROACH

Editing should be a two-way process between the writer and the editor. After all, it’s your book. It’s my job to help you improve your manuscript so when I make suggestions for changes, I’ll give you a clear rationale. I love to work with writers and I pride myself on being tactful and constructive in my feedback.

My job is to help make your book the best it can possibly be, without losing its unique essence or your voice. Working with different authors has helped attune my ear to different styles of writing. In fiction particularly, prescriptivism must not stand in the way of creativity. It’s a fine balance.

MY EXPERIENCE

I was an English lecturer for thirteen years before making the move into publishing. I love language and all its nuances; it was this, as well as being a voracious reader, that drew me to editing work. My background in literature and language means I understand not only what makes a good narrative, but the nuts and bolts of English – the structure of language and syntax.

PAST WORK

I have edited many fiction and non-fiction titles for various publishers and independent authors. Some of my recent projects include:

WHAT I OFFER

  • Full structural or line edits

  • Correspondence throughout the editing process

  • A read-through service. I can read your manuscript and provide detailed feedback on how to improve it

  • I use Track Changes in Word so you can see exactly what I have done to a manuscript (structural/line editing only)

  • Copywriting

  • Proofreading

COPYWRITING

I can write copy for anything from the smallest to the largest job. From a few lines for a club-night flyer, to copy for a brochure or text for an entire website. Just ask!

Don’t just take my word for it …

A cheer goes up inside me when I know Susie is going to be my editor! She's a pleasure to work with, combining insight, creativity and attention to detail, with real passion for the stories she reads.

Ruth Eastham – author

The Bond was written at a time of high emotion for me. When writing about life changing events, I defy any author to achieve balance without the help of a superb editor. I was blessed that Susie became my editor as the book was finally assembled. Her clear input on what was vital, important or dispensable helped transform the work from an enormous draft into something to be proud of.

Simon McCartney – author

Susie has all the hallmarks of a brilliant editor – considerate, enthusiastic and not afraid to suggest a change of direction. A real pleasure to work with and immeasurably improved my work.

Derek Brown – author and Sun journalist

I have had the extreme pleasure of being edited by Susie on both of my books for THE SNOWDONIA CHRONICLES. The editing journey can be bumpy and confusing, painful even, but working with Susie was energising and enlightening. Not only did Susie help to mine out the gold in my story and make perspicacious and thought-provoking comments, but she succeeded in bringing out the best in me too. She fostered skills in me that I didn’t know I had. In addition, her nurturing and careful pruning brought out the very best in my stories. In the end it is all about the art. Every writer wants their story to be the best it can be, and that is where we need the imaginative, incisive mind of a skilled and inspired editor, along with a careful hand, a gentle touch and a sharp eye.
Susie ticks all the boxes.

Sarah Mussi – author

PRICING

Costs vary depending on your requirements but my rates are very reasonable. Once we’ve discussed exactly what you want and I’ve seen the manuscript, I will be able to give you an accurate estimate of the time it will take and how much I would charge. You can decide at that point if it’s something you want to pursue; there is absolutely no pressure.

By the way …

I work with a superb book designer so, between us, we can transform your manuscript into a gorgeous, glossy thing of beauty, fit to grace bookshelves the world over!

What are you waiting for?

I would love to hear from you, so fill in the form below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Ask me anything and I’ll do my best to help. Between us, let’s make this the year you get your book out there.