Claire Winters

Claire Winters – Editor

I've served as a developmental editor on over 30 non-fiction titles, specializing in psychology, personal development and media subjects.

Overview

I take a "360" approach to helping emerging authors clarify their message and develop their voice. Together, we co-create a dynamic structure that creates an emotional transformation for readers and motivates them to implement the book's lessons. Titles I've edited and/or consulted on have hit Amazon and NYT bestseller lists as well as Forbes and Inc. Magazine's Recommended Reading lists.

I also consult with aspiring authors early in the process to identify if their goals are best-served by writing a book or creating other platform-building content such as a podcast or video series. I enjoy the long-lasting relationships I've had with clients and have worked with several to create articles, pitch documents, talks, and workshops to support their book launches.

"I had a vision for my content but no idea how I was going to execute a plan to develop it. Claire was instrumental in helping me build my platform and bring my vision to life. She taught me the art of being methodical and patient to produce quality content that was relatable to my target audience. What I loved about the process is that I never felt intimidated or overwhelmed. She has a way of breaking things down and making me think in an organized way. She is open, willing, and very capable of collaboration, and her teaching methods are inspiring and motivating. Today I am a much better creative and technical writer and it happened organically. If you work with Claire, you will learn a lot about writing but even more about yourself. She has a unique way of helping you build confidence." - Ilene Smith, author of Moving Beyond Trauma

"Claire's care about the finished product was always evident. It's not just another 'job' for her." - Bruce Mason, Writer/Director of Chez Upshaw

"Claire helped identify my achievements and then framed them in a way that was both honest and accomplished.
She gave me a more empowered sense of my career path. The process changed the way I thought and talked about myself. She is an exceptional listener and an amazing collaborator." - AC, Ghostwriting Client

Services
Non-Fiction
Career Guides Entertainment Health & Wellbeing Psychology Self-Help & Self-Improvement
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Scribe Media

Feb, 2017 — Mar, 2019 (about 2 years)

For thought leaders in coaching, medicine, and media, I created 20-40 page comprehensive book outlines through multiple author interviews. I helped authors determine the case studies, research, and personal stories needed to achieve their book's goals. Titles I developed were featured in Forbes and Inc. Magazine’s recommended reading lists and reached #1 on Amazon bestseller lists.

Wit & Spark

May, 2016 — Present

I provide developmental and copy editing services as well as editorial strategy and support for thought leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs.

At large

May, 2013 — May, 2020 (about 7 years)

I've written essays and profiles for Investor's Business Daily, Elle, The Liberty Project, Human Parts and various UCLA Health publications.

Claire has 11 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Mark S.

Mark S.

Feb, 2023

Just what I had hoped for! Claire was thoroughly professional and encouraging with her assessment. "Kind but specific" is what I asked for and she delivered. I got lots of helpful suggestions that kick me into the next revision with a clear plan and enthusiasm to see it through.
Jeff K.

Jeff K.

Feb, 2023

Claire's editorial assessment of my manuscript was invaluable. I found her feedback thorough, critical yet supportive and extremely actionable. She also conducted a Zoom call with me to make sure all my questions were answered and that I had a clear understanding of next steps to move my manuscript forward into a self-published book!
Brandi J.

Brandi J.

Dec, 2021

We hired Claire to complete an Editorial Assessment for our e-book and we absolutely loved working with her. If we ever decide to publish another manuscript and need another Developmental Editor, Claire would be the first person we'd want to work with.
Jaime P.

Jaime P.

Sep, 2021

Claire’s feedback on my manuscript was well-worth the cost. It was honest and pointed without being discouraging. It made me aware of the various weaknesses that I need to address to make the book better. Most of all, it gave me a template for how to organize the story that maximizes the teaching effectiveness of a self-help scheme. The suggestions will require extensive rewriting, but I am con...
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Jennifer D.

Jennifer D.

Apr, 2021

I hired Claire to help me with a developmental edit on my first nonfiction book. I submitted my initial manuscript to her and she offered excellent structural advice. We ended up working together to create a more cohesive outline. This outline provided the bones for the second revision of the manuscript. Claire offered me balanced feedback and ideas to improve my writing voice, chapter stru...
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