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 craft, mindsets, and routines.


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 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 work closely with my clients to ensure it's a smooth, easy, and fun collaboration. 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, paving the way to producing the best book possible. Whether you're looking to traditionally publish your novel or go the self-publishing route, 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

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 65 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Iris V.

Iris V.

Oct, 2024

Working with James was phenomenal. The communication was easy and relaxed. Some changes had to be made to the collaboration at various times, and he always accommodated them without issue. The end report was nothing short of amazing, inclusive, detailed but positive. There were two online meetings following the report to discuss the comments, and those were both helpful. Can't recommend him eno...
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Fabio S.

Fabio S.

Oct, 2024

If you're looking for a writing coach who can take your work to the next level, James is the person you need. He is extremely motivational, bringing a wealth of competence and experience to every session. His passion for reading, writing, and coaching is contagious, and he always has fantastic ideas to contribute. What sets James apart is his incredible ability to understand what readers want a...
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Robin M.

Robin M.

Oct, 2024

James was over the top in his review and edits provided, much more than I expected out of the query/synopsis review. He was patient with me as I worked through some moments of doubt but really came through with helping me get through what I needed to get this to top notch. I'm extremely satisfied with his edits and help and would highly recommend!
Theo C.

Theo C.

Oct, 2024

James was excellent to work with. His developmental edit of my short story was thorough, honest and incredibly useful, covering both high-level and low-level issues in great detail. He was great for bouncing ideas off of and coming up with way to improve some of the story's weaknesses. He was also able to complete my request within a very short time and went that extra mile by fitting me into h...
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Don A.

Don A.

Oct, 2024

James is amazing! He is willing to work with me in a manner of ways. And he feedback is detailed and extremely helpful. He is kind and friendly, and I forward to talking with him every week! Your lucky to work with him if you get the opportunity.

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