James Powell

James Powell – Editor

Developmental editor/writing coach specializing in genre fiction; trad. and self-published author; enjoys collaborating with new writers.

Overview

Put simply, I love helping writers improve their stories.

I've experienced the hurdles writers face when creating a work of fiction. I use my experience as both a writer and editor to teach you how to make your story as compelling and engaging as possible while remaining true to your voice and vision.

Editing and coaching are collaborations, and I never take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I’ll listen to your goals and modify my process to meet your needs.

Perhaps one of my biggest joys is guiding new writers through the editing process. Sending a manuscript to a stranger for the first time can be scary, and I like to work closely with my clients to ensure it's a smooth, easy, and fun process. When working with me, you'll find an editor, writing coach, cheerleader, and teammate.

With my help, you’ll learn to embrace your strengths and overcome your weaknesses on your way to creating the best book possible,

Let’s discuss how I can help you reach your publishing goals.


TESTIMONIALS

"James is the sort of editor who can catch those structural problems you overlook because you’ve been down in the weeds too long and you’re too familiar with the material, but more importantly, like the best editors, he understands that the editorial process is a conversation between the writer and editor to make the work the best it can be. You can’t ask for more than that.”

--Charles Barnitz (The Deepest Sea)

"Stephen King said in his book On Writing that "to write is human, to edit is divine", and my experience with James has been nothing short of transcendent. With James editing my manuscript, I've found myself becoming a better writer, a more conscious reader, and an all-around better creative. Not only will he challenge you, he'll explain how to improve or express exactly what you're trying to say."

--Vince Rogers (Recluse)

Services
Fiction
Comics & Graphic Novels Epic Fantasy Horror Middle Grade Mystery & Crime Psychological Thriller Science Fiction Young Adult
Languages
English (CAN) English (UK) English (US)
Certifications
  • B.A. in English from the Colorado State University

Work experience

Self-employed

Mar, 2015 — Present

Full-time freelance fiction editor who regularly edits comic scripts, novels, publisher submissions, query letters, and Kickstarter pages.

Also the writer/creator of House of Fear, a series that introduces middle grade readers to the thrills of scary comics (it's Goosebumps meets Tales from the Crypt).

Jeppesen/Boeing

Mar, 2001 — Oct, 2020 (over 19 years)

Created and maintained editorial style guide; edited and wrote user documentation for aircraft software; managed 15+ writers during the development of multiple aviation textbooks, training programs, and videos.

Portfolio

Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Made with Reedsy
Recluse

Rogers, Vince

Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading Query Letter Review
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading Query Letter Review
Editorial Assessment
This Rough Old World

Barrows, Brandon

Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
America Jr. Volume 1

Capetanakis, Nick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Beweddian

Barnitz, Charles

Editorial Assessment
The Peace Weaver

Barnitz, Charles

Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading

James has 56 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Zechariah C.

Zechariah C.

Jul, 2024

It was only one session but the advice that he gave me has already helped me enjoy and want to write more, will be collaborating with him more. Thanks James!
Cecilia C.

Cecilia C.

May, 2024

James was nothing but kind and understanding with me when we worked together. The guidance he gave me made it much easier to plan out my novella and gave me much needed direction. I would love to work with him again in the future.
John M.

John M.

Apr, 2024

James provided us with valuable insights and plenty of ideas for improvement. He was very responsive and also mindful of our goals.
Daniel P.

Daniel P.

Apr, 2024

James has been an outstanding writing coach.
Michael J.

Michael J.

Feb, 2024

I've worked with James several times now and my writing always comes out better for it. He's as important as a book's cover as far as I'm concerned.

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