Holly Eleanor Ainley – Editor

I'm a fiction editor with ten years experience in the publishing industry, most recently commissioning and publishing literary and commercial fiction at The Borough Press imprint of HarperCollins. I love every stage of the editorial process, from developing an early idea with an author, to structural editing, through to line editing. I also offer informed, incisive advice on cover letters and agent or publisher pitches.

I have a broad experience of the industry, having worked as a bookseller, a literary scout and an editor for both independent and trade publishers, giving me a unique insight into how a book is perceived at each stage of the publishing process.

My editing style is very collaborative and I provide a discursive, rewarding experience for every author, helping them get their manuscript into the best possible shape. I have worked extensively with debut novelists but also enjoy relationships with established writers. My expertise ranges across genres including historical fiction, literary fiction, commercial fiction, thrillers, novellas, short stories and graphic novel scripts. I am open to working with non-fiction authors of memoir or nature-writing projects.

I enjoy editing books with poignant, thought-provoking themes, character-driven plots (real or imagined) and a sprinkling of danger or of real heart. I look forward to reading your story.