Heather Sangster – Editor

I’m a highly accomplished veteran publishing professional in long-time service (since 1988) to prominent publishers (including 3 of the Big 5), authors, businesses, and emerging talent across the globe. I'm proud to have played a part in the distinctions my clients have earned: 66 best-sellers, 136 awards, and counting.

I’ve been Margaret Atwood’s go-to copy editor and proofreader for almost 30 years, working with the internationally best-selling and award-winning author on 20 consecutive titles so far, including The Testaments, the Booker Prize–winning sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale. I was interviewed by The Globe and Mail for its art feature on the process.

"Heather Sangster has been the primary copy editor of my work for the past 28 years and my publications owe a great deal to her services. She is meticulously thorough and thoroughly professional." — Margaret Atwood, internationally best-selling, multi-award-winning author

I’ve honed my technical expertise in multiple industries (legal, educational, academic, and trade publishing; advertising), mediums (newspapers, magazines, books), genres (see a small sampling below or my website portfolio for the complete list), and in-house and freelance roles and am co-founder of Strong Finish Editorial Design. I've been providing ongoing editorial support to publishers and businesses while helping emerging writers produce professional manuscripts ready for agents/publishers/self-publishing since 2006.

Besides the stats listed above, my track record includes ongoing relationships with top-tier clients (some for decades), including Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Hogarth Press, Simon & Schuster, Visa, Saks Fifth Avenue, Moody's, Pearson, Nelson, and numerous independent/self-published authors. Not only do they continue to use my editorial services, but they recommend them to others. You're doing something right when heads of publishing houses and internationally best-selling authors refer their friends and colleagues to you.

This breadth of experience makes it possible for me to catch errors and style weaknesses others wouldn't or, in contrast, to bend or break the rules when necessary to bring out the best in your writing. Knowing what works is key. I combine classic principles, contemporary sensibilities, insider expertise, and just the right touch for a signature service with measurably superior results. Plus, I'm easy to work with. With respect, patience, and warmth, I'll collaborate with you to refine your writing because your book matters to you, and it matters to me, and I'll help make sure it matters to your audience.

I look forward to discussing your publishing project with you.