Phil Halton

Phil Halton – Editor

Canadian Army veteran, specializing in histories, memoirs and military/historical fiction. PhD Candidate in Eng. Lit and Creative Writing.

Overview

As an editor, it’s a pleasure to take a manuscript and work with the author to really make it shine. Whether that is through developmental editing or just providing a clear-eyed assessment, we can find the most direct and economical way to get your manuscript in shape.


I specialize in developmental editing and coaching, and greatly enjoy the process of helping to shape a book into something that will really resonate with readers. Narrative structure is a critical element of my approach, and is something that I find is often overlooked by writers and editors alike.


I first gained experience as an editor working with the literary journal "Blood & Bourbon," and then for a Canadian publishing house. I have edited more than a dozen books that have gone on to be traditionally published, and continue to do so on a regular basis. I regularly conduct manuscript reviews for the Writer's Union of Canada, and review pitches with a view to acquiring them for publication.


With an academic background in history and global experience as a soldier and security consultant, I tend to look for projects that are a good fit with my non-editing experience as well. I take a very holistic approach to editing, and believe strongly in the importance of having a good "fit" with the writer.


With the right relationship, the editor and the writer become a team whose impact is greater than the sum of the parts.

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs History
Fiction
Historical Fiction Literary Fiction Mystery & Crime
Languages
English (CAN) English (UK) English (US)
Certifications
  • Master of Arts in Creative and Critical Writing
  • Master of Defence Studies
  • Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Military and Strategic Studies
  • Graduate Certificate in Creative Writing

Work experience

Self-employed

Mar, 2015 — Present

Providing editing services to individuals, corporate clients and a traditional publishing house.

Portfolio

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
White School, Black Memories

Barnes, CWO John G.

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Soft Targets

Inks, Benjamin

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Indexing
The Broken Mirror of Memory: Iraq and Other Tales

Soel, Joseph

Independently published

Copy Editing
11/3/11

Merrick, AE

Phil has 23 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Shannon H.

Shannon H.

Jul, 2024

Great feedback, guidance and solid direction. He gave me clear actionable steps to take so my draft would make more sense. He was excellent communicating with me, especially when I was confused on some aspects of editing. I also respect his openness and direct manner. There was no guessing or wondering what I was supposed to do or how my draft came across. I'd work with him again.
Phil H.
It was a pleasure working with you on this manuscript, Shannon. I look forward to seeing it on the shelves of my local bookstore one of these days!
Phoebe K.

Phoebe K.

Feb, 2024

Phil's editorial skills and keen insights are invaluable in transforming my mess of a manuscript into a polished work. He went above and beyond what I asked for and supported me further through Zoom calls to ensure clarity and understanding. For anyone seeking high quality work from someone with patience, kindness, and industry knowledge--all within a reasonable budget--look no further. Highly ...
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Phil H.
It has been a pleasure, Phoebe! I'm looking forward to seeing your work on bookstore shelves!
Tammie W.

Tammie W.

Feb, 2024

Phil communicated very well from the beginning. He was honest, but not brutal. His feedback has been very helpful.
Phil H.
Thanks, Tammie - and good luck getting your story out into the world.
Deepak T.

Deepak T.

Jan, 2024

Fantastic Developmental Editing Experience I had a wonderful time working with Phil on my project. Phil is really knowledgeable and gave me detailed report with structural and prose feedback and also an edited file with comments on the manuscript on places of improvement. We even had a Zoom call for queries and additional feedback, which was very helpful. Phil finished the work on time, with ...
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Phil H.
It was a pleasure, Deepak! I'm looking forward to seeing this in print!
Will M.

Will M.

Jan, 2024

Very professional, and easy to collaborate with. Help me improve the writing without affecting my voice or style.
Phil H.
It was a pleasure, Will!

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