Mary Novak

Mary Novak – Editor

Developmental editor in spaces where fantasy and romance overlap: romantasy, fairytale retellings, historical fantasy

Overview

I'm a passionate editor of genre fiction. You can count on me to take your light entertainment very seriously.

The developmental edits you'll receive from me come in three parts. First, I'll attach hundreds of comments to your story calling attention to each specific issue I find. I will also send you a detailed editorial letter that discusses your story's quality and flow on a more holistic level. My critique style is honest and kind. You'll get direct feedback and actionable suggestions that will leave you feeling energized and excited to dive into your revisions.

After you've had time to digest my written feedback I include some consultation time as the final part of my editing package. We'll set up a time to chat about your story in light of my feedback. This friendly, light discussion often proves invaluable in generating concrete solutions to the most challenging problems in the story. I find that when we bring together our two minds, both wanting the absolute best for your story, the results can be miraculous.

Services
Fiction
Dark Romance Epic Fantasy Historical Mysteries Humor & Comedy Romantic Comedy Romantic Fantasy Urban Fantasy Young Adult Fantasy
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

May, 2015 — Present
I'm a freelance developmental editor. I have worked in many genres, but most of my work comes from YA fantasy romance and urban fantasy.

Portfolio

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Developmental Editing
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Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
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Breaking Destiny

Walters, Mitty

Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Unwanted (Emergence)

Walker, Catherine M.

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Agent Lydia Standish and Agent Thomas Gantreau from the Bureau of Magic & Oddities are investigating the cause of an MME (Major Magical Event) at the Black Rock Research and Development facili... read more
Developmental Editing Book Coaching

Mary has 31 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Sarah T.

Sarah T.

Aug, 2026

Mary really went above and beyond to ensure she understood my story, always striving to give the most accurate, helpful feedback possible. During the process, she answered any questions I had, making sure I had a clear understanding of the answer. I have learned so much during my time with her an...
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Kandis L.

Kandis L.

Aug, 2026

Mary was very considerate of my story and took the time to explain and explore all aspects of my manuscript. She never rushed through my work, and it was evident that she genuinely wanted to do a thorough job and help develop and improve the story. I am beyond pleased with our time working togeth...
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C. M. A.

C. M. A.

Jun, 2026

Mary is great at sussing out the weaknesses of the story and coming up with ways to fix them. Excellent communication skills, with as many check-ins as required. She did need a little flexibility in the timeline for our project, but it was absolutely worth it.
Adam G.

Adam G.

May, 2026

Mary provided excellent developmental editing for my manuscript. Her turnaround time was prompt, and her insights into character motivation and plot mechanics were invaluable. She is very kind, professional, and took the time to thoroughly discuss her notes with me. I highly recommend her service...
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Drew D.

Drew D.

May, 2026

Very much enjoyed working with Mary. She brought years of experience to my project that I was lacking. I feel assured that my finished product will be that much better when everything is done after speaking with her.

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