Ashley Wyrick

Ashley Wyrick – Editor

Dystopian, Dark Fantasy, and Horror | over 30 published books| Editor of award-winning "The Soul of Lyskerrys"

Overview

Working with me means having an editor who genuinely understands the pulse of YA fantasy, sci-fi, and horror—and knows how to elevate your story without losing what makes it yours.

I specialize in shaping immersive worlds, tightening high-stakes plots, and sharpening character voices that resonate with young adult audiences. Whether it’s refining magic systems, strengthening sci-fi logic, or dialing in tension and atmosphere in horror, I bring both a critical eye and a deep respect for your creative vision.

I offer a full range of editing services—from big-picture developmental edits to line edits and final polish—and many of my clients come back project after project. That continuity means I don’t just edit your manuscript; I grow with you as a writer, understanding your style, your goals, and your audience on a deeper level each time.

What it’s like to work with me:

Honest, thoughtful feedback that strengthens your story without overwhelming you

A collaborative approach—I explain the “why,” not just the “what”

Attention to pacing, voice, and emotional impact (especially crucial in YA)

Consistent, reliable communication and turnaround

Whether you’re building an epic fantasy, a mind-bending sci-fi world, or a horror story that lingers long after the last page, I help you push it to its strongest, most compelling form.

Let’s make your story unforgettable.

Services
Fiction
Dystopian Fantasy New Adult Young Adult Fantasy
Languages
English (UK) English (US)
Certifications
  • B.A English
  • IAPWE | International Association of Professional Writers and Editors Issued Mar 2017

Work experience

Jolly Fish Press

Jan, 2016 — Mar, 2020 (about 4 years)
Acquire Manuscripts and scout for talent using general submissions and twitter Provide developmental edits Oversee copy edits and proofreads Liaison between author and design, marketing and formatting teams

Colorado Early Colleges

Aug, 2021 — Present
I teach literature with a focus on developing students into thoughtful readers, analytical writers, and confident communicators. My role centers on guiding students through complex texts, leading discussions that deepen comprehension, and helping them connect literary themes to real-world ideas and experiences. I design lessons that emphasize critical thinking, close reading, textual evidence, and purposeful writing. Students regularly engage in analysis, discussion, revision, and reflection as they learn how to support their ideas with evidence and communicate clearly. I create a structured, supportive classroom environment with high expectations and clear guidance. Through modeling, feedback, and differentiated instruction, I help students grow in both skill and confidence while fostering a classroom culture built on respect, curiosity, and engagement.

North Star Editions

Apr, 2017 — Mar, 2020 (almost 3 years)
Acquire Manuscripts and scout for talent using general submissions and twitter Provide developmental edits Oversee copy edits and proofreads Liaison between author and design, marketing and formatting teams

Self-employed

Jan, 2014 — Present
Provide developmental edits of manuscripts for indie publishing Provide copy edits of manuscripts Provide query and synopsis critiques

Portfolio

Made with Reedsy
The Descent of the Drowned

Lal Din, Ana

Developmental Editing
The Red Labyrinth

Meredith Tate

The massive labyrinth was built to protect Zadie Kalvers' isolated desert town. Unfortunately, living in the maze's shadow makes her feel anything but safe. Even without its enchanted deathtra... read more
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading
A dreamer doesn't know they are dreaming, but they damned sure know when they are awake.Liam Verren was definitely awake, and the woman he and been dreaming of was still there, outside in the ... read more
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading
Made with Reedsy
The Sovoran: Wolf of the Highlands

Campbell, Corey

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Made with Reedsy
The Reaper's Spell

Pereira, Andre

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Made with Reedsy
Wakers: Sayonara Sleep

Hoffman, Michaela

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
In a desolate mining town, deep in the Mojave Desert, the struggle continues against unearthly predators straying across dimensional boundaries. At the forefront of the skirmish, teens Camm an... read more
Copy Editing
The Zanna Function

Daniel Wheatley

When fourteen-year-old Zanna Mayfield gets an acceptance letter from St. Pommeroys School for Gifted Children, she jumps at the chance to put her considerable intellect to good use. But nothin... read more
Developmental Editing

Ashley has 64 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Michael W.

Michael W.

Apr, 2025

Ashley is extremely thorough. As a new author, I was retiscent to submit my first manuscript for editing. She did not dissappoint. I must admit, it is not the easiest consideration, to have someone pick apart your work so precisely. Although, I realize, it is ultimately for the greater good. ...
Read more
Ashley W.
Thanks Michael! I can WAIT for book 2!
Mike D.

Mike D.

Feb, 2025

Ashley was wonderful to work with. She was very detailed and thorough, providing excellent recommendations.
Ashley W.
Thanks so much, Mike! It was a pleasure working with you!
Jones T.

Jones T.

Aug, 2022

Ashley and her team give good and clear feedback for the writing of this book. Their Developmental Edit was very helpful in focusing the story, getting tension throughout to engage the reader, and develop the characters.
David B.

David B.

Jul, 2022

My outlet for the covid lockdown was writing. It was the journey not the destination I was after, but I finished somehow. So now what? Ashley took on my novel and I really see the value in the process she lays out. As I get deeper and deeper into reworking my book, I become more and more amazed a...
Read more
Daniel S.

Daniel S.

Jul, 2022

The Copy-Edit I received was cohesive and clear. All things sloppy, wordy, and grammitacally erroneous have been pointed out, and suggestions for amelioration have been made where they needed to be. Overall, my collaboration with Ashley was an examplary one.

Sign up to read more reviews

Create a free Reedsy account to connect with Ashley and thousands of other publishing professionals on Reedsy.

Professionals similar to Ashley

Get a range of offers by requesting quotes from multiple professionals.

Rebecca Sutherland

Rebecca S.

Using structural expertise and market insight, I work with Big 5, smaller publishers and indies to help make writing shine.

Coffs Harbour NSW, Australia

100% reply rate

View profile
Melinda Crouchley

Melinda C.

Editor of 8+ years specializing in YA, dystopia, speculative, & sci-fi. MA Book Publishing. Let's turn your obstacles into opportunities.

Portland, OR, USA

85% reply rate

View profile
Isabella Betita

Isabella B.

Experienced freelance editor specializing in SFF, horror, and speculative fiction for Adults and YA. Formerly with S&S.

New York, NY, USA

100% reply rate

View profile