Ross Angelella – Editor

You’ve finished a manuscript. Now you need an editor who can help transform it into the strongest version of itself.

I specialize in crime, mystery, thriller, horror, literary fiction, and psychologically complex narratives. Whether you're preparing a manuscript for agents, publishers, or self-publication, I help writers strengthen structure, sharpen pacing, deepen character psychology, and elevate voice without sacrificing what makes the work uniquely theirs.

My editing goes beyond line-level corrections. I focus on the underlying architecture of the story: narrative momentum, tension, characterization, stakes, and emotional impact. Clients receive direct, thoughtful, and actionable feedback designed not only to improve the manuscript but also to help them grow as writers.

With more than 20 years of experience in traditional and independent publishing, I've worked with writers at every stage 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 more than a decade helping writers develop ambitious projects from concept to completion. I also teach screenwriting at Towson University, bringing specialized expertise in structure, pacing, and narrative tension.

As an award-winning novelist and screenwriter, I understand firsthand the challenges of revision, the demands of the publishing world, and the importance of preserving an author's vision. My goal is never to rewrite your book. My goal is to help you write the book only you can write—at the highest possible level.

If you're looking for an editor who will challenge the work, respect your voice, and help your manuscript stand out in a competitive market, I'd be delighted to work with you.

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'.