Overview
You need an editor—not a friend. Our loved ones may have a keen eye for catching typos, but they will usually hold something back when they’re reading your work and may not give you honest feedback. My only agenda is seeing your writing reach its full potential—without losing your unique voice and style. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, you want the reader to be so engrossed in your work that they lose track of time. You don’t want them to pause or have to reread something they found confusing.
Editing is much more nuanced than merely marking grammatical errors—although a forgotten comma can derail an entire paragraph. In addition to correcting errors and typos, I will point out inconsistencies within the narrative and plot and highlight language usage that might make the reader stumble or pause—reading speed bumps that might interrupt the eye.
I also work with authors on a developmental basis where we dive into all the essential elements that drive a great narrative—from plot and character development to structure and pacing.
Having published a novel with Harper Collins (Mariner) myself, I know what it's like to be in an author's shoes. I think of editing as a partnership. My job is to function as an advocate for both the reader and the author, and ensure that the writer's intentions are clearly conveyed.
I’ve had the joy of seeing my authors presenting at the SXSW Book Festival in Austin, receiving Kirkus Starred Reviews, becoming Amazon bestsellers, and winning scores of book awards.
Here are a few words from some of the authors I've worked with:
{*} "Becky had great ideas, was personally interested in the work, and pointed out candidly, effectively, and kindly where my writing lacked clarity. I can’t say enough how much I appreciated the personal touch."
{*} "Becky did an outstanding job on the editing front—she was smart, thorough, and a pleasure to work with. She did a great job on this and made the book a whole lot stronger and tighter in so many ways.”
Although I work with all genres and all authors, from established to emerging, you may notice from my book titles that I've worked with a lot of military authors. Although I myself did not serve, spending 25 years as a Navy spouse has given me an understanding of the military perspective.
I’ve worked on just about every genre, from self-help to memoir to business advice to historical fiction, suspense, science fiction, and fantasy, and am eager to tackle any project.
Services
Non-Fiction
Fiction
Work experience
Koehler Books
Developmental and copy editor for an independent publishing house working on both fiction and nonfiction. Primary duties include helping authors polish their manuscripts and get them ready for layout and final publication, ensuring correct grammar and adherence to the CHICAGO MANUAL OF STYLE, as well as checking for continuity of voice, plot, character development, and overall attention to detail.
Self-employed
Providing full-spectrum editorial services for authors, both established and emerging, from developmental book coaching to line and copy editing and final proofreading and fact checking. Services include preparing the piece for submission to agents and publishers by bringing it into compliance with the CHICAGO MANUAL OF STYLE and checking for grammatical or spelling errors, as well as clarity, consistency, and cadence. Ensuring the author’s voice and the spirit of the piece is respected is paramount.
Harper Collins
Coauthor of SISTERS OF SHILOH (Mariner Books imprint). Hardcover publication, March 2015. Trade paperback publication, March 2016. Named a Winter 2015 Okra Pick by SIBA (Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance). Longlisted for the 2016 Pat Conroy Southern Book Prize.
Portfolio
Becky has 6 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Randy H.
Jul, 2023
Bilikiss A.
Jun, 2023
Moses S.
Jun, 2023
Rachel C.
Apr, 2023
Robert D.
Mar, 2023
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