Elise Gallagher

Elise Gallagher – Editor

Developmental editor, copy editor, proofreader for literary fiction, short stories, non-fiction. Worked at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Overview

I am a Baltimore, MD based writer, editor, and undergraduate writing composition professor. Since 2011 I have worked in the publishing industry with leading educational and trade companies such as, Bedford/St. Martin's and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. I also worked with Data Trace Publishing, a medical publishing company focused on podiatry. My roles within these companies centered around the editorial departments where I shepherded manuscripts throughout the production process. This included: proofreading, copy editing, reviewing page proof and design, working with authors one-on-one to make corrections to their manuscripts, and writing continuing education questions. I have also developmentally edited two short-story collections, one of which won Honorable Mention in the North Street Book Prize. As a publishing industry professional and a published writer, I know the ins-and-outs of the writing and publishing process from both perspectives.

As a methodical, dedicated, organized person I take great care when editing a manuscript, by paying close attention to detail, following character and plot development, and ensuring that the author's voice is consistent throughout. I take note of and correct any inconsistencies and offer guidance on how to strengthen the story. I assist writers with finding, developing, and honing their story line and craft. Transparency, communication, and honoring the author's vision are key elements of my freelancing approach. Whether you have a finished manuscript that needs proofreading or want to start your first novel, I can help you prepare and finalize your writing to meet your publishing goals.

**Please note that for fiction projects, I am offering developmental editing, proofreading, and copyediting services. For non-fiction projects, I am offering copyediting and proofreading services.**

Testimonials:

"Elise helped me edit a collection of short stories. You couldn't ask for a more supportive and skilled editor. She is great at recognizing the heart and potential of a story, and then pointing out what changes can be made to help it reach that potential. Her feedback was always useful, and helped shape my collection into something better than it was before. I loved working with her, and I recommend her highly. "- Abigail Anklam, author of According to Their Kinds

"I couldn’t have asked for someone better to help me through the editing and proofreading process. Elise was professional and detailed when going through edits of my short story collection. She took her time explaining when a story got lost and how to do rewrites so that I could get my message across without losing my voice. She made herself very available to ask questions and voice concerns about my writing. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for the best of the best." -Brianna Wyble, author of These Dark Bodies
Services
Fiction
Literary Fiction Short Story Women's Fiction Young Adult Fantasy
Non-Fiction
Self-Help & Self-Improvement Travel
Languages
English (US)
Certifications
  • Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Baltimore

Work experience

Cherry Tree Literary Magazine

Aug, 2016 — Present

Reads and votes on fiction/non-fiction submissions to the literary magazine.

Welter Literary Magazine

Aug, 2016 — Dec, 2016 (4 months)

Stevenson University

Jul, 2016 — Present

Every summer I teach creative writing at the Stevenson Summer Writer's Workshop.

Data Trace Publishing Company

Jul, 2015 — May, 2017 (almost 2 years)

Managed print medical journals from the beginning of the book production stage to the end. Worked with authors who were medical doctors, editors, and off-shore vendors to keep the print journals on schedule.
Copy edited and proofread all articles that appeared in the journals.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Sep, 2013 — Jul, 2015 (almost 2 years)

Managed CliffsNotes titles, which included checking page proof, making corrections, working with the overseas compositor, approving final pages, looking at the ebook to make sure that content and layout were correct.

Managed own book projects and oversaw the manuscripts through the entire production stage. Proofread and copy edited marketing material.

Bedford/St. Martin's

May, 2011 — Aug, 2013 (over 2 years)

Managed digital and print products such as, electronic computerized test banks, electronic and print Instructor’s Resource Manuals, and college textbook titles such as, Florida Literature.

Portfolio

A New York Times reporter reveals what business leaders around the country are already discovering: Meditation may be the key to fostering a happier, more productive workplace. For the past few years, mindfulness has begun to transform the American workplace. ... read more
Florida Literature: A Case Study

BSM Florida Editorial Board

Florida Literature: A Case Study offers a sampling of literary works, essays, images, and historical documents from the state Carl Hiaasen said is "so colorful, the material so rich, it’s no wonder Florida has a history of great writers." Inside this book, you... read more
A revelatory account of poverty in America so deep that we, as a country, don’t think it exists Jessica Compton’s family of four would have no cash income unless she donated plasma twice a week at her local donation center in Tennessee. Modonna Harris and her ... read more
Sources of The Making of the West provides written and visual documents closely aligned with each chapter of The Making of the West. This two-volume collection reinforces the major political, economic, social, and cultural developments in the textbook by allow... read more
Based on the highly successful A History of Western Society, Understanding Western Society: A Brief History captures students’ interest in the everyday life of the past and ties social history to the broad sweep of politics and culture. Abridged by 30%, the na... read more
It€™s a simple, best-selling combination that has worked for thousands of students €” short, accessible essays and helpful, thorough writing instruction. Models for Writers continues to offer thought-provoking selections organized to demonstrate not only the r... read more
Written by the leading authorities on the first-year seminar and grounded in research, Your College Experience by John Gardner and Betsy Barefoot offers today’s diverse students the practical help they need to make the transition to college and get the most ou... read more
Great condition. No highlighting or underlining anywhere. Ships within one business day from Los Angeles. Free Tracking

Elise has 24 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Juraj L.

Juraj L.

Mar, 2024

Very kind. She took her time reading my prose, and gave me valid feedback that I sought. Her comments were meaningful and helped me with clearing any confusion or misunderstandings I wrote before she helped me. Overall, great experience, would reccomend.
Richard H.

Richard H.

Nov, 2023

Elise is amazing. I was very pleased with her top-notch copyediting skills snd her insightful editorial commentary. I will hire her again and again!
Alex T.

Alex T.

Jun, 2023

Elise has been the most supportive person through this journey. Not only through her editing, but through her constant support. She has guided me through the process, and is continuing to mentor me through the publication of my book. Baby steps, but it will happen. Thank you Elise for all you’ve done for me. I love working with you and I look forward to the next phase of the process.
Robert W.

Robert W.

Jun, 2023

I thoroughly enjoyed working with Elise. After decades of writing non-fiction, including two prior books, I knew writing fiction was completely new. Elise guided me every step of the way and was instrumental in helping me to publish a book that I am very proud of.
Sally M.

Sally M.

Apr, 2023

Elise did a great job, and I highly recommend her. While she's sharp and thorough with the small stuff, like punctuation and other writing mechanics, she also responded to my requests and pointed out wordiness, repetition, areas of confusion, and places that needed more showing and less telling. Her suggestions smoothed the flow of my writing, helping to keep the story moving forward. I felt co...
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