Jeff Hart

Jeff Hart – Editor

Author of EAT BRAINS LOVE and UNDEAD WITH BENEFITS (Harper Teen). Freelance editor and consultant.

Overview

I'm the author of the YA zom-rom-coms EAT BRAINS LOVE (now a movie!) and UNDEAD WITH BENEFITS, both published by Harper Teen. As a ghostwriter, I've written several other young adult novels, many of which have appeared on the NYT Best Sellers list. As an editor and consultant, I've helped craft numerous book proposals that were sold on spec to major publishing houses and shaped many first drafts into publishable manuscripts.

As an author and an editor, I've experienced all sides of the publishing process. From coffee-soaked mornings when it seems like that first draft will never get finished to those late nights feeling like a pincushion while poring over an editor's brutal notes -- I've been there. Beyond a keen eye for the market and an incisive red pen for what works on the page, I've found that what's often most valuable for a writer is a confidant. It's important to have an editor that's been through the process, who you feel comfortable bouncing ideas off, and who will share in both your blunders and successes.

Wherever you are with your manuscript, I can guide you to the next level. I'm available for query critiques, assessment reads, and more in-depth edits. Looking for someone to take a pass at your first draft? Need help sculpting an idea into an outline? Want someone to punch-up your dialogue? I'm ready to assist on projects big and small.

The most fulfilling moments of my career have been when the inherently lonesome writing process gave way to a feeling of community. It takes a team to bring a book into the world and I want to be part of yours!

A NOTE ON REQUESTS: When sending me a request, please attach the first 2,500 words of your manuscript. It's easiest for me to assess where your project is at by starting from the beginning. (These pages also tend to be the most polished!)
Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Fantasy Literary Fiction Middle Grade Mystery & Crime Science Fiction Thriller & Suspense Young Adult
Languages
English (US)
Awards
  • NYC Midnight Screenwriting Championship runner-up
  • Two-time semi-finalist in The L Magazine’s Literary Upstart
  • Eat, Brains, Love shortlisted for YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Readers
Certifications
  • University at Buffalo B.A. in English

Work experience

Self-employed

Aug, 2011 — Present

Published two books of my own: EAT BRAINS LOVE and UNDEAD WITH BENEFITS.

Creative consultant on a NYT best-selling YA series; edited or ‘punched-up’ in progress manuscripts prior to publication; authored book proposals that sold to major publishing houses; collaborated with editors on creative direction for various IPs and brands.

Portfolio

With its heartwarming blend of guts, romance, and humor, this road trip–ready sequel to Eat, Brains, Love is The Walking Dead meets John Hughes.Jake and Amanda are in love, on the run—and undead. They've picked up a new psychic friend, ex-government-zombie-hun... read more
A laugh-out-loud funny, surprisingly romantic, zombie road trip novel filled with heart—and brains. Eat, Brains, Love is perfect for fans of Isaac Marion's Warm Bodies.The good news: Jake's dream girl, Amanda Blake, finally knows his name.The bad news: it's be... read more

Jeff has 10 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Allie V.

Allie V.

Feb, 2023

Jeff was great to work with! He messaged me throughout the process and is always open to whatever questions I had. He was extremely professional and I will be coming to him with more work.
Robert P.

Robert P.

Nov, 2022

Jeff was a pleasure to work with all around. He was clear, communicative, and the quality of his work showcased a genuine interest and ability to help with the project. His feedback and notes were extremely thoughtful and valuable to the project. He was personable and easy to work as well, which made the entire process both valuable and pleasant.
David H.

David H.

Nov, 2022

Jeff did a line edit for me, going beyond proofreading and copy editing, plus he raised some good plot questions. He was very thorough and he gave me a helpful perspective on some style issues.
Cody W.

Cody W.

Sep, 2022

Jeff was really amazing to work with. He went above and beyond, answering so many questions that were technically outside the scope of work. He is really knowledgeable about the industry and has so many insights about writing, agents, publishing, and everything in between. Highly recommended.
Andrew A.

Andrew A.

Jul, 2022

My second round with Jeff was fantastic. In addition to his careful edits, his thoughtful comments included excellent suggestions that added color and power to the project. His recommendations in regard to character were especially strong: He pointed out areas that would be better expressed through dialogue, he had excellent suggestions regarding the introduction of characters, and he suggested...
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