Bryn Donovan

Bryn Donovan – Editor

Former executive editor in publishing, specializing in romance and mystery. I give detailed but encouraging edits, and I help with querying!

Overview

Hey, brilliant author. Let's work together!


I have a long track record of doing developmental and copy editing for romance and mystery novels, including USA Today bestsellers and books that became movies. I've worked with New York Times bestselling authors who have published dozens of books, and I've worked with complete beginners.


I'm the former executive editor of Hallmark Publishing, although I also enjoy working on R-rated stories. I'm a #1 Publishers Weekly bestselling author (Sunrise Cabin, writing as Stacey Donovan), I developed the storyline for the first movie in the Christmas in Evergreen franchise, and I have two spicy time travel/romantic comedy novels from Berkley Publishing/Penguin Random House. I am LGBTQ-friendly.


As an editor, I reviewed thousands of query letters and synopses, and I love helping writers with those, too. Since I became a full-time freelance author in fall 2022, several of my clients have gotten their first book deals. I have a lot of experience with self-publishing and I love working with indie authors, too!


I'm a detailed editor—one client referred to my "freakish laser focus." However, I also make a lot of encouraging notes. I want you to recognize your strengths as a writer so you can make the most of them! I'm particularly good at working with authors on plotting and structure. I've taught creative writing at the University of Arizona and at conferences, and my teaching experience helps me explain edits clearly so you can apply the explanation to future projects.


I'd love to help you level up as a writer and reach your author goals!

Services
Fiction
Contemporary Romance Cozy Mysteries Romantic Comedy
Languages
English (US)
Certifications
  • MFA, Creative Writing, University of Arizona

Work experience

Hallmark Publishing at the Hallmark Channel

Feb, 2017 — Sep, 2022 (over 5 years)
I headed up a fiction publishing imprint of the Hallmark Channel, specializing in romance and cozy mystery books published in ebook, trade paperback, mass market paperback, and audiobook and sold on Amazon and in Barnes and Noble, Target, and Walmart. I acquired and edited books, art directed book covers, and oversaw book marketing, publicity, and all other aspects of the publishing business.

Self-employed

Sep, 2022 — Present
I provide professional developmental editing, copy editing, and query and synopsis collaboration and feedback for authors.

Portfolio

Sunrise Cabin

Donovan, Stacey

Christmas at the Amish Market

Gray, Shelley Shepard

Bryn has 63 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Bailey M.

Bailey M.

Apr, 2025

Bryn did a fantastic development edit on my debut novel. As a first-time author, the process can feel nerve-racking, but she made me feel so comfortable every step of the way. Her suggestions and edits were spot on. She caught things I’d missed and even offered some helpful copy edits. She was en...
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Kate H.

Kate H.

Apr, 2025

I had a fantastic experience working with Bryn! She delivered exactly what she promised, completing my project in just one week. Her line edits were thorough, and she also provided insightful developmental recommendations, which were exactly what I needed. I highly recommend her for anyone lookin...
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Kerry M.

Kerry M.

Mar, 2025

Bryn was wonderful to work with. She gave me excellent feedback on my query letter and much-needed encouragement. I would definitely hire her again!
M M.

M M.

Mar, 2025

I knew right away that Bryn would be an absolute delight to work with. Her guidance on my novel has given me the confidence to make important improvements. She showed me where I need to make changes, but she also showed me where my writing is good. Which I really appreciate. I highly recommend Bryn.
Leslie M.

Leslie M.

Feb, 2025

It's a joy working with Bryn. She gave me feedback in several areas both showing me what I was doing well and what needs improvement. This is my first book and I have a lot to learn and I feel like working with her has helped me grow into a better writer.

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