Elizabeth Thurmond – Editor

I am a proofreader and copyeditor with a focus on fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, thrillers and horror for adult, YA and Middle Grade readers. My experience since 2010 includes work with private clients, small publishers, and well-known brands like Hallmark and Disney. I also worked as a corporate proofreader for over a decade.

When working on a project, I first receive instructions and information about special needs or concerns from the client, such as whether the manuscript is being published or is being sent out to agents. I then provide a comprehensive markup with attention to typos, spelling, punctuation, grammar, syntax, repetition and usage, using Microsoft Word with tracked changes. If I see anything that may need the author's attention -- a character or place name change, a confusing paragraph, etc. -- I flag it in a comment at the margins. Any queries I insert are for the author to consider, and I don't require an answer!

My edits are technical only. I do not offer line editing services (these are content/style-based and collaborative) or instructional support on the rules of grammar or how to use Microsoft Word. I do not use any form of AI assistance at any stage of my editing process.

I have received some requests that I've had to turn down because the manuscript was not ready for my services. The edits I provide are most effectively used as the final review before a manuscript is self-published or submitted to agents and editors -- think of me as the last line of defense against technical errors.

Previous projects include the Kane Chronicles and other books by Rick Riordan, as well as books by other authors in the Rick Riordan Presents line (middle-grade and YA fantasy by multicultural authors); books in the Star Wars High Republic series; Ruin & Roses by Deanna Ortega; $LAY by Scott Sigler; Archipelago by HR Hawkins; The Walls of Delusion by Steven J. Norton.