Overview
My background is in literary fiction, though as an editor, I've primarily worked on genre fiction. I've edited manuscripts by numerous New York Times bestsellers, a few National Book Award winners, and a Booker Prize winner, among many others. I've worked on various other types of memoir and trade nonfiction, particularly business and self-help, and I have experience guiding authors through the self-publishing process.
I love character-driven novels and thoughtful writers driven by craft, ideas, or both. Particular interests include literary fiction, crime/mystery novels, historical fiction, and anything involving classical music. I strive to meet the needs of each project individually, listening to the client and working together to find the approach best suited to the manuscript at hand. I'm also happy to work on most types of subject matter: I'm always interested in hearing what authors have to say, and I'm not easily offended.
My superpower is The Chicago Manual of Style (I received my copyediting certificate from the University of Chicago Graham School). I'm an American living in Edinburgh, Scotland, so I have experience with both US and UK English. I've also lived extensively abroad, including in Germany, Vietnam, and eastern Europe, which can be useful when editing books set in far-flung locations.
I'm a Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders, and I'm also a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association. I'm a senior editor for my primary client, meaning that I work in a collaborative environment where editors learn from one another and constantly hone our skills. I also engage in regular professional development: currently, I'm pursuing a certificate in developmental editing for fiction, and I'm a judge in this year's IPNE Book Awards.
Please reach out; I'd love to hear from you!
Services
Fiction
Languages
Certifications
- Editing certificate, University of Chicago Graham School
- Advanced Professional Member, Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading
Work experience
Self-employed
Portfolio
Elyse has 23 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
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Jacob M.
Feb, 2025
Pinned
Dan H.
Nov, 2023
Pinned
Harris K.
May, 2025
Mark J.
Apr, 2025
Miles B.
Apr, 2025
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