Kelly Davis

Kelly Davis – Editor

I have edited and proofread many non-fiction books for Hachette and HarperCollins, and have also worked on memoirs for individual clients.

Overview

I am nothing if not versatile! I can handle proofreading, copy-editing, rewriting and project-editing jobs for publishers and self-publishing authors. I can also carry out picture research and write publicity material, if required. I have written a few non-fiction children's books myself. I also write poetry and have had some of my work published in anthologies.

I started my publishing career in Australia in the 1980s, working for Heinemann and then Penguin Books in Melbourne. When I returned to the UK, I worked in-house for Longman Publishers and later BBC Books. At BBC Books, I worked on several TV tie-in titles, including illustrated books on cookery, history and travel. I have been freelance since 1990 and have worked for many different publishers, including Bloomsbury, Piatkus Books, Hachette, HarperCollins, Oxford University Press and Cambridge University Press. In recent years, I have worked with self-publishing authors on memoirs, novels, children's books and poetry.

I believe in the importance of the authorial voice and I will adjust my editing to the level required. In other words, I won't make changes unnecessarily. Some manuscripts only require light editing, while others need more work. I always aim to help the author communicate with the reader clearly and effectively. A professionally edited, polished manuscript will stand a better chance of being selected for publication; and if you plan to self-publish, your readers will enjoy your book more, and they will be more likely to recommend it to others.
Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Children’s Non-Fiction Education & Reference Health & Wellbeing History
Fiction
Poetry
Languages
English (UK)
Certifications
  • BA(Hons) in English Literature from Oxford University
  • RSA TEFL Diploma

Work experience

Self-employed

Oct, 1988 — Present

I can turn my hand to editing a wide variety of manuscripts, including fiction and non-fiction for adults and children, and self-help and medical books. At present, I am spending most of my time editing memoirs.

Portfolio

Quentin Tarantino is a film director whose movies contain a stark violence and black humour that have turned him into a major influence for millions of movie fans. This is a biography of the youth-culture hero charting his rise from poverty to superstardom and... read more
Finally, the diet vegetarians have been waiting for. Have you been feeling left out lately? Many is the vegetarian or vegan who has watched their meat-eating friends with envy as they followed the Atkins diet and the pounds dropped off. There's no doubt about ... read more
Many people occasionally suffer from a negative body self-image but, for an increasing number of people, this can turn into a more serious preoccupation. One per cent of the population will develop Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a condition characterised by s... read more

Kelly has 19 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Jon A.

Jon A.

Nov, 2023

I really enjoyed my collaboration with Kelly. She's a sensitive and intuitive editor who has helped get the best out of my writing. Her suggestions are tactful and carefully phrased - and excellent! I would happily recommend her to other clients.
Kelly D.
Thanks so much, Jon. I found your book fascinating and it was a pleasure to work with you!
Ashley R.

Ashley R.

Nov, 2023

Working with Kelly has been such a wonderfully positive experience. I was really entering into the unknown here, and Kelly was so thoughtful and patient as she guided me through the editing process. Kelly's editing and contributions to my piece made it truly come-to-life. I could not be more pleased with our interactions or the final version of my work after passing through Kelly's capable ha...
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Kelly D.
Thanks so much, Ashley. You are the ideal author - talented, responsive and appreciative! I think you've written a powerful memoir, which deserves to do really well, and I wish you every success w...
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Cat P.

Cat P.

Aug, 2023

I have had the privaledge of working with Kelly over the last few months writing my first published book. I can't thank her enough for all the time and help she gave me. Kelly is very professional, polite and respectful. She is great at her job and made my book come alive as she edited it. I highly recommend Kelly and look forward to working together with her soon!
Kelly D.
Thanks so much, Cat. I think you have written a very brave, honest book - and I wish you every success with it. Do stay in touch. :)
Sharon V.

Sharon V.

Apr, 2023

Kelly is professional, helpful and she's prompt and reliable with her work and communication. She provided me with invaluable insights, tips and advice. I would work with Kelly again.
Kelly D.
Thanks so much, Sharon. I think you're a talented writer and I hope you will get your memoir published. Let's keep in touch.
Tino T.

Tino T.

Mar, 2023

I had the pleasure of working with Kelly as my book editor, and I must say that I was impressed with the level of service she provided. Kelly carefully proofread our manuscript and pointed out issues that we had overlooked. She also made several helpful suggestions to improve clarity. Throughout the process, Kelly was prompt in responding to my questions and concerns, and she worked diligently...
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Kelly D.
Thanks so much, Tino. I wish you and Alison every success with the book, which offers vital help support for young people struggling with mental health issues and the adults supporting them.

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