Helen Jukes

Helen Jukes – Editor

Internationally renowned author and editor based in UK, specialising in Contemporary Fiction, Memoir and Creative Nonfiction.

Overview

As an internationally acclaimed author I know the writing process inside out, and can advise and empathise on every stage. As editor, I bring over ten years' experience in helping writers and prize-winning authors create successful, beautifully crafted narratives.

'Helen is a sensitive and generous reader who has helped me to improve my fiction and nonfiction writing. She has a keen eye for detail, and a strong grasp of the shape of larger projects. She is also a lovely human. I would recommend her wholeheartedly for your ambitious projects, and your dream books.' LAURA JOYCE, author of THE LUMINOL REELS

"Helen continues to have a hugely significant impact on the writing of my first book after reading my first draft. She gives such extensive feedback, taking so much into consideration, with professionalism, direction, and warmth. I have asked Helen to stay on board for my second draft because I feel so safe in this process. I trust Helen, and am beyond grateful for her guidance." JULIA, author of WIDOW'S FIRE (under contract)

Whatever stage you're at, I offer comprehensive feedback on works in progress, helping you gain perspective on issues of plot and structure, and to build vivid, expertly honed sentences. Together we'll engage deeply with your writing, helping you to clarify your ideas and intentions, and make your story the very best that it can be.

Experienced in fiction but looking to build my nonfiction/memoir portfolio.

Services
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Literary Fiction Short Story Women's Fiction
Languages
English (UK)

Work experience

Faber Academy

Jan, 2025 — Present
- Devising and teaching a 12-week online Creative Non-Fiction course alongside prize-winning author and co-tutor Marianne Brooker

University of Oxford

Aug, 2015 — Present
- Teaching Creative Writing at undergraduate level - Supervising end of year projects

Self-employed

Sep, 2014 — Present
- Developmental Editing and Editorial Assessment for clients at every stage of the book-writing process, from first to final drafts. - Book coaching for return clients requiring sustained support in bringing a project to fruition.

Arvon Foundation

Aug, 2025 — Present
Teaching residential creative writing courses alongside best-selling authors such as Miriam Darlington and Noreen Masud

Creative Writing Ink

Aug, 2020 — Present
- Designing and writing online courses for adults in fiction and memoir - Providing written feedback on weekly assignments for students of fiction, memoir and creative nonfiction.

Literature Wales

Oct, 2019 — Oct, 2019 (5 days)
- Residential writing workshop: co-tutoring with Booker-longlisted author Paul Kingsnorth

University of Nottingham

Jun, 2018 — Jun, 2024 (about 6 years)
- Lecturing on Memoir and Life Writing for students on the Creative Writing MA.

Portfolio

Sealed

Booth, Naomi

Titan Books

Developmental Editing
Exit Management

Naomi Booth

Dead Ink

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Animals at Night

Booth, Naomi

Dead Ink Books

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Deaf at Spiral Park

Devaney, Kieran

Salt

Developmental Editing
The Luminol Reels

Joyce, Laura Ellen

Calamari Press

Developmental Editing
The Museum of Atheism

Joyce, Laura Ellen

Calamari Archive

Developmental Editing

Helen has 2 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Anne W.

Anne W.

Jul, 2025

Helen is an excellent editor. She very kindly rearranged her schedule to get to review my project early. Her comments were insightful. Having spoken with her, I feel a renewed optimism about my work, and I see a path forward to eventual completion. I would recommend Helen without reservation!
Helen J.
What a beautiful review, thank you Anne!
Rowdha A.

Rowdha A.

Jun, 2025

This editor gave me passion in writing again, and a reason to keep writing. She is awesome!
Helen J.
What a beautiful review, thank you. It was a pleasure working with you!

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