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 71 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Sean P.

Sean P.

Feb, 2025

James really helped me work through some of my hangups and tighten my story plot up. Very knowledgeable on a lot of subjects, and can speak authoritatively on how to properly shape a story to engage readers and move the story along. Looking forward to working with him again!
Michael J.

Michael J.

Jan, 2025

I've worked with James several times now. He's always went above and beyond.
Kristopher B.

Kristopher B.

Dec, 2024

It was a pleasure working with James. He was quick and professional and provided quality feedback to improve my story. He believed in my story and saw what needed fixing. I am confident and look forward to revising it to its potential. Most importantly, the one-on-one Zoom call helped clarify my confusion—I 100% recommend James.
Rick M.

Rick M.

Nov, 2024

James was excellent, fast, friendly, and professional. His summary of my writing the story I'm telling was on point and showed the good with the bad. He left notes on every chapter, as well as an overall view. Then he left line notes and questions to further enhance my rewrites. He also gave a zoom call with face-to-face conversation on how to approach the rewrites. All within my budget and in ...
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Thomas R.

Thomas R.

Nov, 2024

James was an absolute blast to work with. He was one of the main reasons I was able to finish the first draft of my novel. His insight and encouragement were integral to my writing process. I learned so much from his edits and coaching calls. I highly recommend James for any project you might be working on. He his charismatic, knowledgeable and just an all-around great person. 10 out of 10 woul...
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