Mischa McGehee – Editor

Experience:

* 15+ years editing high-tension, action and thriller novels

* 50+ published works

* Long-term collaborations with best-selling authors

* Millions of copies sold worldwide

* Editorial Freelance Association Member

With more than fifteen years of experience editing fiction and over fifty published works behind me, I work closely with novelists to refine manuscripts with precision, emotional depth, and clarity. My clients include long-term collaborations with bestselling authors whose books have collectively sold millions of copies worldwide, but I approach every manuscript with the same care and attention.

I specialize in adult fiction, particularly thrillers, psychological suspense, horror, paranormal fiction, mystery, detective fiction, crime fiction, espionage, military fiction, post-apocalyptic fiction, time travel, and medical drama, with a focus on emotionally driven, atmospheric storytelling where tension, pacing, psychology, and narrative rhythm matter as much as technical precision. I do not currently accept young adult (YA) manuscripts.

My editing style is meticulous, perceptive, and deeply collaborative. I do not believe editing should strip away the voice or emotional core that makes a manuscript distinctive. My goal is to strengthen what is already there while helping authors uncover stronger choices in structure, prose, pacing, subtext, atmosphere, and character dynamics. Much of my work involves identifying the intangible elements that separate a technically solid manuscript from one that genuinely lingers with readers.

Clients often come to me because they want more than a surface-level correction. They seek an editor who will fully immerse themself in the manuscript, recognize what is working, ask difficult questions when necessary, and approach the work with honesty and care.

My standard process is intentionally collaborative. After completing a developmental edit, I discuss everything with the author and do a second read-through once revisions have been implemented. I like seeing how changes function in practice and offering additional feedback on the page rather than leaving the author to navigate revisions alone.

I offer developmental editing and editorial assessments, both with detailed revision plans to translate feedback into practical next steps. I also offer copy editing, proofreading, and long-term manuscript partnerships for authors seeking deeper editorial continuity. My rates are based on the professional standards established by the Editorial Freelancers Association, of which I am a member, and reflect the collaboration, attention, complexity, and ongoing support each manuscript receives.

Because I work closely and immersively with each manuscript, I keep my editorial calendar highly selective and typically accept approximately 10% of project requests. Thoughtful editing requires trust, sustained attention, genuine investment, and the right fit between author and editor. Authors feel the difference when that level of care is present on the page.

If you are looking for an editor who approaches your manuscript with precision and emotional instinct, and who values genuine collaboration as much as the work itself, I would truly love to hear from you. The strongest editorial partnerships are built on trust, honesty, and shared investment in the story.