Chad Rhoad

Chad Rhoad – Editor

An award-winning editor with 15 years experience at a national press. I've edited 350 published titles and helped writers of all levels.

Overview

First, I love writing. I am here to use my background to help authors turn their work into what they want to be. My experience in writing and editing for the past 15 years spans the gamut from print publications in journalism to history books to teaching writing at the university level. And I love True Crime books.


I have a BA in English and a MFA in creative writing from the University of South Carolina. I have taught literature, rhetoric and composition, writing and creative writing at the University of South Carolina and Charleston Southern University. I worked as managing editor for The Hartsville Messenger newspaper from 2005 to 2007 and worked as a freelance journalist from 2007-2010.


For the past 11 years, I have been a senior editor at The History Press in Charleston, SC, where I have been the editor/project manager for more than 350 books.

I work in fiction and non-fiction alike.

When editing, I strive to see the work for what it wants to be rather than what I would want. I believe in thoughtful communication and conversation of ideas and work to support writers using my experience in any way possible.


I've worked in many areas of writing and communications, and I look to enthusiastically use that experience to support others.


Most importantly, I'd like to make this process as fun as possible. That may be tough, but I offer free jokes. Some are good.

Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Literary Fiction Mystery & Crime
Non-Fiction
Agriculture History Sports & Outdoors Transportation True Crime
Languages
English (CAN) English (UK) English (US)
Awards
  • Pushcart Prize Nomination 2013
Certifications
  • MFA, Creative Writing, 2012, University of South Carolina
  • Member of Freelance Editors Association

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2019 — Present

A full-service editorial firm offering a full variety of editing services to authors of all skill levels. We offer assessments, developmental editing, line level editing, coaching and help with query letters and all aspects of writing. We aim to be a partner and resource for our clients!

Charleston Southern University

Jan, 2015 — Present

I teach both online and in class and have taught courses on college writing, intro to composition, rhetoric, and various literature classes.
I have worked with students of all ages and stations in life.

The History Press

Jun, 2012 — Present

Since 2012, I have worked with authors on more than 350 book projects in history and culture. I work with authors from the conception of the idea through publication. I work with authors on the developmental and editorial levels, and I work with them on crafting a message to promote their books and increase their online platforms.
This has allowed me to work with debut writers as well as veteran writers and people of all ages and backgrounds.

The Hartsville Messenger

Jul, 2005 — Sep, 2007 (about 2 years)

I worked as managing editor of this newspaper. I managed a staff of 6 and wrote in the areas of sports, city government and long form lifestyle articles.

Portfolio

St. Louis Jazz: A History

Owsley, Dennis C.

Chad has 15 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Peter S.

Peter S.

Apr, 2023

Chad created an accurate set of three indexes. His work is of the highest standard, his communication prompt and constructive, and his fees are very fair.
Mark A.

Mark A.

Apr, 2023

Chad was one of four developmental editors that I considered for my true crime/sports book. I was impressed by his quick response but even more impressed by how detailed it was. He told me how he would help me in specific steps, what he would charge for his services and how he came up with that dollar figure. Of course telling me what he would do is easy. How about the end result? I was very pl...
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Scott Y.

Scott Y.

Oct, 2022

The most important lesson I learned from Chad is to write concisely and avoid 'author intrusion'!
Troy H.

Troy H.

Aug, 2022

Chad was PHENOMENAL to work with from start to finish. He communicated very effectively with me every step of the way. I could tell throughout the process he had my best interests in mind. He also went above and beyond what I asked him to do and offered numerous suggestions on how to make my book better. I would refer Chad to anyone and cannot say enough good things about my experience work...
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Ann S.

Ann S.

Jul, 2022

Very professional and punctual!

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