David Mahaffey

David Mahaffey – Editor

15+ years editing for an award-winning literary magazine. I help writers shape their work with clarity and care.

Overview

I've spent 15 years reading thousands of submissions at The Sun, an independent literary magazine known for publishing writing that's honest, intimate, and unafraid of depth. I know what makes an editor stop scrolling and lean in—and I can help you get there.

My approach is collaborative, not prescriptive. I'm not here to impose my voice on your work; I'm here to help you find and strengthen yours. Whether you're untangling a messy first draft, tightening prose that's almost there, or just need a thoughtful reader to tell you what's working (and what isn't), I bring patience, clarity, and genuine investment in your success.

What I offer:

- Developmental editing that addresses structure, pacing, and emotional resonance

- Line editing focused on voice, rhythm, and precision

- Honest, actionable feedback delivered with respect for you and your vision

I believe the best editing feels like a conversation, not a correction. If you're looking for a reader who takes your work as seriously as you do, let's talk.

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Parenting & Families
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Poetry Short Story
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2008 — Present

The Sun magazine

May, 2010 — Oct, 2025 (over 15 years)
For 15+ years at The Sun, I've evaluated and edited thousands of literary manuscripts across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and interviews, selecting and developing work from both emerging and established writers for publication.

David has 11 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Rachel S.

Rachel S.

Jun, 2026

I feel lucky to have found the needle in the haystack of the exact editor I needed in David. I look forward to working with him on my next project. His suggestions helped me understand my book better and got me to the next phase more quickly than I could have on my own.
Yussuf K.

Yussuf K.

Jun, 2026

Extremely satisfied with David's excellent editing. He has gone above and beyond the contracted editing requirements.
Norma M.

Norma M.

May, 2026

David is a master of his craft! your work is definitely in save hands.
Kent L.

Kent L.

May, 2026

David exceeded all of my expectations. His ability to delve into my thoughts that created my writing and appreciate those thoughts, while at the same time challenging and questioning them in a sincere manner, was refreshing. His editorial notes were clear and concise, and I always felt he had my ...
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Laid P.

Laid P.

Apr, 2026

Easily the best editor I've had. David's editorial letter was detailed yet to the point, and his copy edit corrected my errors while fully respecting my style. Highly recommend.

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