James Powell

James Powell – Editor

I help genre fiction & comics writers see what isn’t working, strengthen story, and hook readers from page one. 10+ years' experience.

Overview

I help novelists and comic writers turn uncertain drafts into compelling stories that hook readers from page one. My work focuses on character development and strengthening tension, world-building, and story momentum so your writing stays consistent from start to finish.

The edits are only half the value I provide. I want you to learn to spot storytelling weaknesses, not just in your current work, but in future stories, too.

And we’ll talk through your questions together via Zoom, so you understand what’s working, what isn’t, and how to move forward with confidence.

I do not use AI. For me, that human connection is everything!

I’ve edited 100s novels and comics, and I've worked with new and established writers, including traditionally published and self-published authors.

As a published author myself, I understand the creative doubts that come with sharing your work with others, and I don't take that lightly. You'll get my best work every time.

With over 10 years of experience, I gravitate toward horror, fantasy, and thrillers... any genre fiction with strong characters and good tension and conflict.

When you’re ready to stop guessing and start seeing what your story really needs, let’s figure it out together.

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

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
The Peace Weaver

Barnitz, Charles

Editorial Assessment
Made with Reedsy
Agents of Democracy: War Machines

Jones, MJJ

Asshoco

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
It's kids vs. monsters in this collection of scary comics for young readers! House of Fear is the perfect comic collection for monster hunters young and old. It's Scooby-Doo meets Tales from t... read more
Developmental Editing Query Letter Review
Made with Reedsy
Terror Zone

Vince Rogers

Bray Mine Publishing

"No parents. No rules. Just five friends, pizza, and a horror movie night that promises thrills and chills! What starts as a fun-filled night takes a frightening turn when the sinister terror ... read more
Developmental Editing
This Rough Old World

Barrows, Brandon

Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading

James has 104 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Trip P.

Trip P.

May, 2026

James was insightful, encouraging, and deeply engaged throughout the editorial process. He offered thoughtful feedback that helped strengthen the manuscript structurally and emotionally while fully supporting the originality and visual identity of the project.
Savannnah H.

Savannnah H.

May, 2026

I found James extremely professional and thorough with his editorial assessment. His detailed notes helped me to identify what needed to improve and get better as a writer.
Raluca S.

Raluca S.

May, 2026

I am a repeat customer of James's because he is thorough, supportive, and knowledgeable about the industry. I reached out to him with GN and hybrid work because he can envision the flow of the story and the illustrations in terms of pace, description, and integrity with the rest of the story. He ...
Read more
Cynthia M.

Cynthia M.

Apr, 2026

I wasn't sure what to expect as my first engagement with a writing coach. Since this is my first book, it is important to me to write it myself. It is also important that the person who coaches me through this can balance constructive feedback and teaching. There is nothing quite so soul crushing...
Read more
Cory T.

Cory T.

Apr, 2026

Working with James has been the best. He's helpful, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer questions I may have.

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