Overview
I worked for ten years in-house in UK book publishing where I discovered new talent and helped to create bestsellers. I now work as a freelance writer, editor and writing coach. My first book, Hearts and Bones, will be published by Picador in June 2022.
I have published and edited thrillers, romance novels, children's adventure books, literary fiction and short stories. Most of all, I love to help writers of all kinds discover the story they must write and then to help them write it as best they can. I pride myself on my structured approach to pacing and plot development as well as my sensitivity towards the artistic process. I also teach a course in How to Edit Fiction; through this, I try to improve editorial standards across the UK and Irish publishing sector.
If you need someone who understands both how to edit a messy novel and what it's like to be someone who has written an messy novel – then get in touch.
Testimonials
'I often say her name should be on the cover of the book as well' Louise O'Neill, bestselling author of Only Ever Yours, Asking for It and Almost Love
'A joy to work with: a sensitive, perceptive reader as well as a warm and supportive collaborator' Rebecca Wait, author of Our Fathers, The View on the Way Down and others
Services
Fiction
Languages
Awards
- Bookseller Rising Star 2015
- Shortlisted for the Brandford Boase Award 2016
Certifications
- MA Creative Writing and Publishing
- BA History and English
Work experience
Self-employed
I write books (my first book, a short story collection, will publish in June 2022; my first novel follows in 2023) and I help other people to write their books.
In the History Books
I run publishing start-up In the History Books. We make personalised picture books starring your child alongside history's greatest dreamers and schemers. I do all of the creative stuff including art direction, copy-writing and branding. And I've also written the first two books!
riverrun (Hachette)
I worked on the literary imprint at Quercus, acquiring and publishing all kinds of literary writing. My authors won big awards and (sometimes!) sold lots of copies. I love writing with wit, ambition and generosity.
Quercus Children's Books
I started as assistant on the children's list and worked my way up to editorial director. My job was to commission and eventually oversee a list of middle grade and young adult fiction.
Portfolio
Niamh has 3 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Marc B.
Nov, 2023
Frances M. T.
Apr, 2022
Michael A.
Jul, 2020
