Julie Holderman – Editor

I specialize in soft sci-fi, fantasy of all kinds, and YA sci-fi and fantasy, but am well-read in horror and mysteries as well. My approach is to help writers clarify their vision, analyzing theme, tone, and execution while refining storylines and patching plot holes. I take a deep, holistic approach to manuscripts, ensuring each element works toward a compelling whole. I'm highly communicative, keeping in touch with clients throughout the process and welcoming questions during and after my critique. The types of service I offer vary depending on client budget and priorities, but my specialty is developmental and creative editing. I do NOT provide copy editing services, unfortunately.

I've been analyzing and deconstructing stories for almost 25 years. I learned the basics early, formally studied fiction in college, refined my craft at workshops like Viable Paradise, and trained under Hugo Award-winning author Mary Robinette Kowal, among others. I'm always reading, learning, and collecting new techniques—from story conception to submission. My writing credits include Tortall: A Spy’s Guide (Penguin Random House, 2017), where I not only wrote significant portions but also provided critiques and feedback to shape a cohesive final manuscript.

I took a break from editing to handle some significant personal life events, and I'm incredibly excited to be back!

RECOMMENDATIONS

"I have worked with Julie on a number of projects. I thoroughly recommend her to anyone with a writing project that requires a keen-eyed, pleasant worker with an understanding of the limits and the rules of the trade."

– Tamora Pierce, NY Times Bestselling Writer of 30+ Books for Young Adults

"Julie is smart, insightful, and capable. A pleasure to work with."

— Chelsea Eberly, Head of Random House Children's Books

"Julie spends time with your work, understands how the pieces should fit together (even if you don’t) and gives feedback that is both a reality check and thoroughly insightful."

– K.P. Kulski, Horror Writer

"If you want a frank and knowledgeable critique of your book, this is the person to seek out."

– Barbara Miller, Romance Writer and Seton Hill Writing Popular Fiction Mentor

"Julie delivers critiques analytically and with kindness, because she is truly interested in helping writing partners achieve a deeper level of skill that will result in delighting readers."

– R. Schlumpberger, Science Fiction Writer

"I’ve been in the publishing industry for 20+ years as a genre fiction book critic. I was impressed with Julie's writing ability, but it was other attributes that really struck me, namely her overall knowledge of genre fiction and her adept and insightful ability to critique and edit others' work."

– Paul Allen, Reviewer for Publisher's Weekly and Kirkus