Ross Angelella – Editor

If you’re looking for an editor who will not only refine your manuscript but truly understand what you’re trying to do on the page, that’s where I come in.

I specialize in working with writers to sharpen narrative structure, deepen character psychology, and elevate voice—particularly in character-driven and psychologically complex fiction. Whether you’re writing literary fiction, a thriller, or something that lives in between, my goal is to help you push the story to its most compelling and precise form without losing what makes it yours.

My approach is collaborative, direct, and deeply engaged. I don’t believe in surface-level edits—I dig into the architecture of the story, asking the questions that strengthen tension, clarify intent, and elevate impact. You can expect thoughtful, honest feedback that challenges the work while respecting your voice.

With over 20 years of experience, I’ve worked with writers across all stages of the process and collaborated with agents and publishers including Random House and Simon & Schuster. As a creative writing professor at the University of Maryland and director of the Jiménez-Porter Writers’ House, I’ve spent over a decade helping writers develop their craft and bring ambitious projects to completion. I also teach screenwriting at Towson University, with a focus on structure, pacing, and narrative tension.

As an award-winning novelist and screenwriter (Zombie, 2012), I understand firsthand how difficult—and rewarding—it is to shape a story into its strongest form. I bring that same level of care, rigor, and creative investment to every manuscript I work on.

If your goal is to elevate your work beyond a solid draft into something sharp, immersive, and publishable, I’d love to collaborate.

TESTIMONIALS

"Ross is extremely personable and has a positive way of presenting his comments and criticisms. I highly recommend his services."

-Ernestine B. Colombo, Author of 'Returning Souls: A novel'

“A professional to the last dot and dash—Ross thoroughly and effectively edited my manuscript. He provided balanced and specific direction for filling the voids where plot or dialogue fell short. His feedback was genuine and unfiltered, and he instinctively had an uncanny ability to understand my writer’s voice. I would highly recommend Ross’ professional and compassionate approach to the editing process.”

-Sharon CassanoLochman, Author of 'Man with the Sand Dollar Face: A novel'

"Ross’ critique was thorough, respectful, and thought-provoking. Everything I’d hoped it would be. I knew there was something 'off' with my manuscript, as I’d received rejections that indicated I was close, but not quite there. I needed Ross to help me identify my manuscript’s weaknesses; he made great suggestions. A revision can be overwhelming, but Ross’s approach—breaking down his editorial letter into distinct topics—helped me devise a plan. I especially appreciate Ross’s suggestion to slow the pace of the reveal and get more into the mindset of my main character, as painful as that might be. I highly recommend Ross and would work with him again."

-Kathleen Blasi, Author of 'Aftermath: A novel'.