Overview
Skills: *Non-fiction book doctor *Editorial consultant *Structural editor *Content creator *Communicator
I'm Helen and I specialise in words - writing, editing and communicating. With more than a decade of in-house experience in the publishing industry, I’ve worked with top non-fiction authors to craft their books from pitch stage through to publication. Whether you need an editorial consultant or a book doctor, I am both flexible and sensitive in my approach. Naturally curious, I enjoy adapting to each author's individual style and learning about their specific area of expertise.
My specialisms are cookery and general non-fiction. With experience ranging from creating bestselling illustrated cookery books for chefs, brands and Instagram stars for publishers such as HarperCollins and Hodder & Stoughton, to editing memoirs, business how-tos or nature books, I'm always interested in getting stuck into a new project.
I have an MA in English Literature, various postgraduate publishing qualifications and am a member of the CIEP.
When I'm not at my desk, I can be found walking my dog Toby around the green hills of Bath in Somerset or cooking up a feast for my family at home.
Testimonial:
'Helen is the perfect combination of calm, insightful and meticulous.' Myles Archibald, Publishing Director @ William Collins
Services
Non-Fiction
Languages
Certifications
- Postgraduate Publishing Diploma
- CELTA qualification
- Copyediting and proofreading certificates
- MA English Literature 2:1, University of Edinburgh
Work experience
Freelance
Flexible editorial consultant offering a range of services from book doctoring to straight copyediting. Works with non-fiction authors to hone book ideas ready for proposal submission or publication and specialises in developmental editing.
Abode Worldwide
Set up and led a team of content creators at a global PR agency. Specialised in creating winning content strategies, top-notch B2B content and managing talented individuals to achieve excellent results for hospitality and tech clients. Also worked on business development and PR/media relations for the company.
HarperCollins
Managed publishing projects from pitch stage through to publication. Specialised in TV tie-in, cookery and lifestyle non-fiction books. Delivered work on time and on budget in a fast-paced corporate environment.
Hodder & Stoughton
Edited commercial lifestyle bestsellers, popular history and science, plus literary fiction. Involved in all phases of the publishing process for a small imprint, from author development to copywriting and marketing campaign ideas.
Portfolio
