Robert Astle

Robert Astle – Editor

Editor and publishing consultant based in NYC. Owned and operated a literary agency and an Indie publisher. Hardwired for storytelling.

Overview

What I bring to the editor's desk:

• Five years of owning and operating a start-up in the publishing industry in NYC; six years working as a literary agent; six years working as an independent editor and publishing consultant. I'm bullish on working with authors who need a thorough, and detailed development edit to revive, refresh, and strengthen their manuscripts. I work very closely with clients by providing step-by-step editorial notes and directions.

• As a publishing consultant, I provide a wide range of services to authors. I have a large network and access to a wide range of literary agents, editors, book marketing personnel, production resources in print, book distribution, e-book conversion, and design in the USA and UK.

• Kindness, energy, commitment, and humor are hallmarks of my work.


Recent Review: "Robert broke open the story and helped drive me toward a more expansive and engaging manuscript. He suggested, pushed, and helped courier the thriller plot and refined [the manuscripts'] rougher edges in ways too numerous to count. I love the flow of a great editing relationship. It's about trust, decisiveness, and knowing what ideas can be taken or left. Robert displayed a mastery of this relational art..."


"Robert was masterful in his edits and overall guidance for my non-fiction book. He was able to look at the body of work and provide very clear insights on changes to the format, tempo, and structure that really brought out the ethos of what I was trying to achieve, but was unable to see it with such perspective after having worked on it for so long. The direction that Robert set me on through the work with him was the catalyst for what the book is today - it would truly be different otherwise (and not in a good way!) - and I am tremendously appreciative of that."

"Just amazing. I'm a first-time author and Robert always had an idea or improvement that brought the heart of the book to life. It's like my book was his book. Will use again."

"Robert is knowledgeable and experienced in this field. He knew exactly what to do to revise my book proposal to conform to what literary agents and publishers are looking for. I highly recommend Robert to write your proposal."

"Robert had the experience and insight I needed to help me take the next step in developing my novel and preparing it for publication. His expertise and frank communication skills are noteworthy and were crucial in guiding me through this process. I would hire Robert again and would certainly recommend him to anyone who needs an editor, publishing consultant, or creative freelancer."

"Robert's editorial input was insightful, accurate, and enormously helpful. All milestones were met on time, communication was excellent, and he went above and beyond the project requirements. Robert brings broad editorial experience, deep expertise, and great enthusiasm. I'm sure I'll be using him again -- and recommend him for any editorial or writing project."


Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Historical Fiction Medical Thriller Mystery & Crime Young Adult
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Business & Management History
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Nov, 2016 — Present

My skills to assist writers are:

• Editorial direction of many successful non-fiction book proposals for traditional publishers.

• Developmental editing for novels and non-fiction: Genres: Memoirs, Autobiographies, Self-Help, Business, and Political Philosophy.

• Managing many titles from the first idea to successful publication.

• Ghostwritten mysteries and thrillers, and non- fiction.

* Helped find publishing solutions in the U.S.A and the U.K.

* Assisted clients in selling foreign rights for specific titles.

* Project Management and developmental editing for children's Illustrated books

My strengths are actively working with new writers to get to the heart of their stories and find page-turning commercial traction in their narratives.

Robert A. and Associates Literary

Sep, 2006 — Jan, 2012 (over 5 years)

Owner and operator of a boutique literary agency, with circa 30 clients, including Theodore Weesner, John L'Heuruex, D.J. Donaldson, Jeanie Okimoto, and Allen Wyler. The agency also actively sold foreign rights to, Japan, China, Italy, Israel, Germany.

SDP Publishing Services

Aug, 2018 — Jan, 2021 (over 2 years)

I provide a wide range of editorial services to a Boston- based publisher. I also provide in-depth project management for award-winning YA and children's illustrated titles

Astor + Blue Editions

Dec, 2012 — Jun, 2016 (over 3 years)

I owned and operated a small trade publisher. Published over forty titles in the USA.

Portfolio

Developmental Editing
The Arsonist

Coulson, Ken

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Synergy

Baugh, Les Lo

Developmental Editing
Carrying

Weesner, Theodore

Developmental Editing
The Lantern

Aborabh, Ayman

Developmental Editing
The Medici Boy

L'Heureux, John

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Engaging the Workforce

Rossides, Nicos

Developmental Editing
Saved by Sport

Psyd, Marilyn Gansel

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing

Robert has 33 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Mike C.

Mike C.

May, 2024

Pinned
Robert clearly has a lot of foundational knowledge, advanced story telling expertise, structure and pacing expertise as well. He did a great job of looking at my work with a good deal of scrutiny which is what is needed. He gets the gist of issues without repeating or rehashing the same issues when doing his developmental review. All in all, the time this will save me (as I have a clear plan...
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Anthony A.

Anthony A.

Mar, 2024

Pinned
I have just begun my collaboration journey with Robert and it has exceeded my expectations so far. Am really looking forward to continuing the development of my project with him. He brings a wealth of experience and no-nonsense professionalism to his craft I has been an absolute pleasure.
Paula S.

Paula S.

Feb, 2024

Pinned
I had the pleasure of working with Robert as my developmental editor, and I cannot say enough good things about him. His insightful suggestions were on the boarder line of genius. This is my third book and I wish I had started out with him earlier. His keen eye for detail truly transformed my manuscript. He saw the whole picture. Not only did he offer constructive feedback, but he also provided...
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George C.

George C.

Jun, 2024

Robert, We have been moving from our sold home to new home all week while waiting for the homes to close. We did not have WiFi until a few minutes ago. I have read everything you sent me, and it is great advice. I hope I can reach out to you next week Thanks George
Robert A.
Thanks George, Looking forward to our call and the next steps in the rewriting process.
Louis R.

Louis R.

May, 2024

Robert demonstrated keen insight into my work and has offered valuable feedback. He worked quickly and delivered his notes and edits ahead of schedule. Robert's positive encouragement and openness to collaborative communication have helped re-energize my commitment to the work and allowed me to find a new level of confidence as a first-time novelist. I am grateful to have had the benefit of hi...
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