James Powell

James Powell – Editor

Developmental editor/writing coach specializing in genre fiction and comics; trad. and self-published author; new writers welcome.

Overview

Work with me if you plan to invest in yourself and your writing career. I'll help you understand your strengths and weaknesses as a writer so you can improve with every story you write.

I want the writers I work with to have a good experience and learn from it. I’m not some random editor you’ll find on Fiverr, spitting out an edit in 15 minutes. If you hire me, you’re getting a strong, informed edit that will help you develop your skills.

I've experienced the hurdles you've faced when creating a work of fiction. I'll use my experience as both a writer and editor to help you transform your story into something truly compelling while remaining true to your voice and vision.

Sending a manuscript to a stranger can be scary, and I work closely with my clients to ensure it's a smooth, easy, and fun collaboration.

With my help, you’ll learn to embrace your strengths and overcome your weaknesses, paving the way to producing the best book possible. Whether you're looking to traditionally publish or self-publish your book, I can help you reach your goals.

Send me a request. Let’s discuss how I can help.

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

Made with Reedsy
Agents of Democracy: War Machines

Jones, MJJ

Asshoco

Developmental Editing
Terror Zone

Rogers, Vince

Bray Mine Publishing

Developmental Editing
Recluse

Rogers, Vince

Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
This Rough Old World

Barrows, Brandon

Editorial Assessment
Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Harold's Piano: A Tale of Grief and Ghosts

Rogers, Vince

Bray Mine Publishing

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading Query Letter Review
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment Proofreading Query Letter Review
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 93 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Michael J.

Michael J.

Feb, 2026

I've worked with James for several years and books now, and he always delivers the goods. He provides plenty of detailed notes and doesn't pull punches when it's needed. I'm looking forward to working with him on my next book.
Alex C.

Alex C.

Jan, 2026

James was great! Extremely timely, provided thoughtful feedback and was easily reachable with any questions.
Brad W.

Brad W.

Dec, 2025

James met me where I was at and helped me progress in my writing substantially as a result of his coaching.
Arianne G.

Arianne G.

Dec, 2025

James gave phenomenal advice!
Noah F.

Noah F.

Oct, 2025

James responded to my request to edit a late addition to my manuscript with his usual professionalism. His edit was thorough and full of the insight and direction needed to bring the work up to publication standard. I will definitely be using James for future projects and highly recommend his ser...
Read more

Sign up to read more reviews

Create a free Reedsy account to connect with James and thousands of other publishing professionals on Reedsy.

Professionals similar to James

Get a range of offers by requesting quotes from multiple professionals.

Greg Cox

Greg C.

Greg has worked as an editor for Tor Books and William Morrow. He specializes in science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

Lancaster, PA, USA

100% reply rate

View profile
Erin Clyburn

Erin C.

Former literary agent with 15+ years of experience, specializing in developmental & copy edits for MG, YA, horror, mystery, & magic realism

Birmingham, AL, USA

100% reply rate

View profile
Adan Jimenez

Adan J.

I am a comics, prose, and localisation editor with 10+ years of experience. I work in many genres, including sci-fi, fantasy, and mystery.

Singapore

100% reply rate

View profile