Overview
I’ve been a professional freelance editor for over 15 years, working with NYT Bestselling authors such as Brandon Sanderson, Dan Wells, Sara B. Larson, Liesl Shurtliff, Tricia Levenseller, and others (I’m mentioned in the acknowledgments). Because of my experience, I understand both the traditional and indie marketplace. My job is to help you create the strongest story by finding the best solutions that feel organic to your story.
I have advanced specialization in Fantasy, Science Fiction, and all genres of Young Adult. That includes coming-of-age stories, epic fantasy, urban fantasy, magical realism, dystopian, post-apocalyptic, space opera, steampunk, time travel, and more.
I also have experience working with Mystery, Crime, Thriller, and Suspense. I've also consulted on plays and screenplays, including a few live productions with the goal of going to Broadway, taught at writing conferences, and been a guest lecturer in college writing classes. I am passionate about all things historical, especially Ancient Rome (Republic and Empire).
I do this job because I love it and I bring that same enthusiasm to your edit as I help you learn how to elevate your craft. I choose to work on projects that show potential and that I feel passionate about.
PLEASE NOTE: I DO NOT offer copy editing or proofreading services at this time. I also prefer not to work with Christian fiction or Horror (though I do work with Dark Fantasy and Science Fiction).
REVIEWS
"Chersti has a deep understanding of story structure as well as a keen eye for detail. She knows how to take a writer's raw material and guide them through their process to create the best possible version of their story."
Liesl Shurtliff, New York Times best-selling author
"I love working with Chersti! She has a fantastic editorial eye and delivers feedback in such a tactful and personable manner."
Tricia Levenseller, author of DAUGHTER OF THE PIRATE KING
"Chersti’s edits always help me see the deeper changes that will shape my story into the one I’ve been trying to tell all along. Her experience with sci-fi and fantasy is a huge bonus, as she helps point out how I can use (and subvert!) tropes more effectively."
Shallee McArthur, author of THE UNHAPPENING OF GENESIS LEE
Services
Fiction
Languages
Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts in English
- Minor in editing
Work experience
Cedar Fort
-Reviewed queries and sorted through the slush pile
-Prepared prospective projects for acquisitions meetings
-Handled copyedits and proofing
I decided to leave the company to focus on my freelance career.
Self-employed
I work with a team of Story Analysts who consult on film, television, books, and plays to help create the strongest stories.
Leading Edge
Editor at LEADING EDGE, a science fiction and fantasy magazine publisher. Once a manuscript was acquired, I oversaw the whole editing process, running editorial teams and doing all final edits myself, until the manuscript went to print.
- Reviewed queries and sorted through the slush pile
- Prepared prospective projects to pitch the head editor
- Worked developmentally with the manuscript
- Worked in all Science Fiction and Fantasy genres and sub-genres
- Ran trainings to educate on the nuances in the sub-genre fields
Portfolio
Chersti has 189 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Joshua E.
Nov, 2023
Matthew W.
Nov, 2023
M.K L.
Oct, 2023
Shaohai G.
Oct, 2023
C.J. W.
Oct, 2023
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