About
I’m an independent book editor with more than a decade of hands-on work with both new and established writers. While I enjoy working with all genres of writing, I particularly like literary fiction, science fiction, horror, and historical fiction. The challenge of helping capture the right voice for YA and Juvenile books, is also something I like doing. Guiding writers to truly discover their voice and flesh out their stories is an absolute joy.
Solid communication is a big part of the editor-writer relationship for me. My goal is always to consider a writer’s vision and voice and convey ways in which that can be honed and harnessed to present the best writing possible. Good editorial feedback should be thorough, constructive, and thoughtful. I believe a writer should know exactly how to move forward with revising their manuscript after working with me.
My background is a wonderful oddball mix of traditional education paired with real-world experience. This means I bring something different to the table when it comes to the editing world. I spent fourteen years as a Firefighter, both stateside and overseas in Antarctica, while finding my footing as an editor. Education-wise, I have a B.A. in English/ Creative Writing, an M.S. in Library Science, and I’m currently working on an M.A. in WWII Studies. I am also a former Virginia Poet Laureate.
My Passion
Working with new and established writers who truly want to master their craft is my passion. Great writing is the product of observation and revision being applied thoughtfully to one’s own work. When you yourself put in the work, along with an editor, your writing skills sharpen. Building strong writers is a huge part of what I do.