Gary Jukes

Gary Jukes – Editor

Helping authors shine: meticulous copyediting & proofreading for fiction & non-fiction. 130+ books, including award winners & bestsellers.

Overview

I’m Gary, a professional copyeditor and proofreader with experience on more than 130 books. Since starting my freelance business at the end of 2020, I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible writers and publishers, and my goal on each project is simple: to help your manuscript be the best version of itself it can be while keeping your unique voice intact.

Over the years, I’ve worked across a wide range of genres, from gripping thrillers, cosy crime and heartfelt romances to memoir, fantasy, horror and science fiction. That breadth of experience means I can quickly adapt to the tone and rhythm of your writing, whatever your project.

Working with me means you’ll get a sharp editorial eye and clear, constructive communication. I spot more than just typos: I check for inconsistencies, continuity slips and clunky phrasing, as well as carrying out diligent fact-checking to make sure any real-world events described in your book are accurate. I care strongly about flow, readability and style, ensuring your prose feels polished, confident and ready for publication.

Authors I’ve worked with describe me as approachable, reliable and meticulous. I know handing over your manuscript can feel daunting, so I aim to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible. I’ll keep you updated throughout, answer your questions promptly and treat your work with the same care and attention I’d give my own.

My base rates are very affordable, too: £16 per 2500 words for copyediting and £13 per 2500 words for proofreading. I also offer a free sample edit or proofread of your manuscript so you can try before you buy.

Whether you’re polishing your debut, preparing your next bestseller or simply want the reassurance that your manuscript is error-free, I’d love to help you bring your words to life.

* * * * *

'Thanks for your great work!' – Luke Jennings, author of the Killing Eve novels.

Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Historical Fiction Mystery & Crime Psychological Thriller Science Fiction
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs
Languages
English (UK) English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Dec, 2020 — Present
Having graduated from the Open University with a degree in English, and as an avid reader for over 40 years, turning my passion for language into a career was a no-brainer. So, at the end of 2020, I took the plunge and set up The Polished Page, providing proofreading and copyediting services to businesses, publishers, academics and anyone else who needs an eagle eye turned over their work.

Portfolio

Proofreading
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Red Dust, White Snow

Huiting, Pan

Fairlight Books

Proofreading
Copy Editing
Proofreading
Killing Eve: Long Shot

Luke Jennings

Boldwood Books

Proofreading
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Liberty Jane

Brown, Liberty Jane

Independently published

Proofreading
Copy Editing
Proofreading
Proofreading
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Incisions: Cut 1

Hutson, Shaun

Caffeine Nights Publishing

Copy Editing
The Ends

Shakespeare, Tom

Farrago

Proofreading
Blurred Faces

Radcliffe, Allan

Fairlight Books

Copy Editing

Gary has 2 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Steve W.

Steve W.

Nov, 2025

I used Gary for copyediting and I am delighted with the result. He finished the book ahead of scheduled time and provided really useful explanations for the non-obvious changes. Communication with Gary was easy and his pricing is very reasonable. Highly recommended.
Gary J.
Thank you, Steve – it was great working with you on your novel and I hope we will collaborate again in the future!
Luke E.

Luke E.

Nov, 2025

Working with Gary was an absolute game changer in my project. His attention to small mistakes were incredibly helpful for my project to feel smooth and nicer to read. He was incredibly supportive of my project and I am super happy to have worked with Gary and would definitely recommend and would ...
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Gary J.
Thank you, Luke! It was a pleasure working with you on your thrilling superhero novel, and I hope we will collaborate again soon.

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