Ann Leslie Tuttle

Ann Leslie Tuttle – Editor

Over 25 years' editorial experience at a Big 5 publisher and a literary agency, specializing in commercial fiction and narrative nonfiction.

Overview

As an editor for over twenty years at Harlequin Books (part of Harper Collins) and as a literary agent at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret for over five, I've worked with a number of bestselling and award-winning authors as well as debut fiction and nonfiction writers. As an inquisitive and relatively fast reader, I appreciate encouraging new voices and try to align my detailed feedback with the author's vision and expertise.


I specialize in commercial adult fiction, thrillers, romance, historical fiction, mysteries, Middle Grade and Young Adult, and I do some narrative nonfiction. Stories set in the South hold particular appeal--although I do love reading and learning about new communities across the world.


During the editorial process, I'm especially focused on character development, pacing and plotting issues, voice and dialogue. I'm especially skilled at paring down an overly high word count. In my edits and assessments, I try to provide detailed, encouraging and actionable feedback that is gentle but also comprehensive and straightforward. It's my hope that the editorial process also allows the author to grow in their craft and leaves the writer feeling energized about the current project. I am available after the edit/assessment has been received to answer any questions or do brainstorming. I also am happy to help demystify the publishing process for those new to publishing.


I've always had a love of books and appreciation of the writing process. Prior to entering publishing, I earned my B.A. degree at the College of William and Mary in history and English and an M.A. in history from the University of Virginia. I currently live in New York City.

Services
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Contemporary Romance Cozy Mysteries Historical Fiction Historical Romance Psychological Thriller Romantic Comedy Women's Fiction
Languages
English (US)
Awards
  • Editor of the Year, NYC RWA Chapter

Work experience

Dystel, Goderich & Bourret

Sep, 2017 — Present

In my current position, I continue to brainstorm and provide editorial feedback to the clients I represent who write in a variety of fiction genres. I have frequent meetings with industry professionals and that, combined with speaking at and attending writers’ conferences, keep me current on trends in the competitive marketplace.

Harlequin Books

Jan, 1997 — Aug, 2017 (over 20 years)

Managed various lines of books, including paranormals and contemporary romance. Acquired and edited a diverse range of authors writing in all the romance sub-genres, e.g. historicals, contemporary, paranormals, romantic suspense and inspirationals. Worked with several NYT and USA Today bestselling authors, including Sylvia Day, Megan Hart, Julia London, and Lisa Renee Jones.

Portfolio

Kismat Connection

Devarajan, Ananya

Lunar Love

Kung Jessen, Lauren

Hawaii, 1944. The Pacific battles of World War II continue to threaten American soil, and on the home front, the bonds of friendship and the strength of love are tested.Violet Iverson and her young daughter, Ella, are piecing their lives together one year afte... read more
Sylvia Sandon is at a crossroads in her life. A wife and mother of two daughters, she and her city-planner husband grapple with the escalating renovation of their antique farmhouse--a situation that mirrors the disarray in Sylvia's life. Facing a failing marri... read more
A young widow puts her sexy suitors to the test in New York Times bestselling author Julia London's scintillating return to the idyllic Scottish Highlands. Widowed and forced to remarry in three years' time or forfeit her son's inheritance, Daisy Bristol, Lady... read more
Never mix business with pleasure. Never bring politics into the bedroom. In a way I did both when I took Jackson Rutledge as a lover. I can't say I wasn't warned. Two years later, he was back. Walking into a deal I'd worked hard to close. Under the tutelage of... read more

Ann Leslie has 130 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Kaila H.

Kaila H.

Aug, 2024

Ann Leslie was the first editor willing to make major alterations in scene placements to help me enhance the plot. After the initial shock,, I had to admit the story was much strong and I am a better writer for having gone through the process with her. Her insights into plot development, pacing and character development over the arc of the novel were precious and I will be forever grateful to h...
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Mobeen R.

Mobeen R.

Jul, 2024

My collaboration with Ann was excellent. She was very timely, professional and gave me very good advice. She gave my work ample time, answered all questions and likely gave it more time than I expected. Even offered a follow up call when things weren't clear to me just to satisfy my questions. Five stars.
Doreen B.

Doreen B.

Apr, 2024

Ann is wonderfully prompt, professional, and insightful with her suggestions. My project was infinitely stronger and more compelling after her editorial assessment. My only regret is not having my developmental edit completed FIRST. She had to make her way through a lot of didactic extras that were ultimately edited right out! She was gracious and thorough and I feel I got more than my mone...
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Natalie H.

Natalie H.

Mar, 2024

Ann Leslie is such a professional. She completes work on time and gives detailed explanation of all of her critiques. She also describes what’s working well so writers don’t walk away discouraged. On top of that, she’s had such experience in the romance genre that she’s’ really able to offer wise insight. I can’t imagine a more helpful editor than Ann Leslie!
Sarah K.

Sarah K.

Mar, 2024

My experience working with Ann was extremely valuable, especially as a new writer. This was my first time receiving professional editing and advice for my novel, and the experience was such a breeze. She gave me extensive, and constructive criticism while still being as professional, and polite. She was exceptionally great at keeping in contact when I had questions for her throughout the collab...
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