Avalon Radys

Avalon Radys – Editor

Award-winning editor transforming manuscripts into bestsellers. 10+ years crafting fiction, memoir & nonfiction with major publishers.

Overview

As a book editor and author coach with more than a decade in the industry, I've developed critically acclaimed fiction that's been adapted for screen, transformed challenging manuscripts through developmental editing, created concept-driven titles filling specific market gaps, and secured media coverage in outlets like Good Morning America and The New York Times.

My editorial approach centers on strengthening authentic author voices while ensuring commercial viability. I've guided first-time authors to starred reviews, helped established writers refine their craft, and transformed raw ideas into market-ready manuscripts. My collaborative process has led to books being featured on Kirkus Reviews' 100 Best Books list, American Library Association awards, and adaptation deals with Apple TV+ and Lionsgate.

What sets me apart is my commitment to specificity of reader experience. Whether coaching a debut novelist or collaborating with an expert developing a complex framework, I help authors forge meaningful connections with their intended audiences. My skill in identifying market gaps has led to innovative concept development in health & wellness, parenting, creative how-to, and narrative nonfiction.

Previously, as Director of Editorial and Publishing Operations at Inkshares, I helped build an award-winning independent publishing house from the ground up. This unique experience allows me to support authors at any stage of their journey—from manuscript development to navigating the publishing landscape.

I approach each project with rigor, insight, and creativity, bringing both editorial precision and market awareness. For fiction, I focus on developing strong narrative structure, distinct settings, authentic characters, and compelling prose. For nonfiction, I ensure clarity and maximize the value you deliver to readers.

Whether you're pursuing traditional publishing, seeking representation, or planning to self-publish, I'll help bring your manuscript to its full potential while respecting your unique voice and vision.

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Health & Wellbeing Parenting & Families Self-Help & Self-Improvement Travel
Fiction
Contemporary Fiction Romantic Comedy Women's Fiction
Languages
English (AUS) English (CAN) English (UK) English (US)
Certifications
  • Professional Sequence in Editing, UC Berkeley

Work experience

Sasquatch Books

Jun, 2024 — Present
Helped lead the revitalization of Sasquatch Books’ 40-year backlist following acquisition, tripling the number of titles acquired annually with half of the staff while increasing backlist sales by 30%. Developed 15+ new titles annually in health & wellness, lifestyle, narrative nonfiction, and cookbooks. • Collaborated with sales and marketing to identify market trends, then conceptualized original book ideas that filled gaps in the marketplace • Created comprehensive book proposals and recruited 12 ideal subject-matter-expert authors for concept-driven projects • Provided intensive author coaching throughout writing process, guiding both experiences and first-time writers deliver polished manuscripts. • Managed entire publication process from acquisition to marketing while building and maintaining P&Ls

Blue Star Press

Nov, 2021 — Jun, 2024 (over 2 years)
Progressed from contracted developmental editor, author coach, and ghostwriter to managing editor, while maintaining both roles. • Managed editorial production process for 50-75 titles annually, including non-book products, like card decks, games, puzzles, and specialty kits • Rescued several difficult manuscripts by author coaching and ghostwriting • Created and enforced tight production schedules across departments while maintaining budget and quality standards

Inkshares

Mar, 2015 — Nov, 2021 (over 6 years)
Led teams producing 12-15 trade books each season across fiction and nonfiction categories for titles that received on average 5x more starred reviews compared to major houses • Acquired and developed Juliet McDaniels’ Mr. & Mrs. American Pie, now adapted into Apple TV+ series Palm Royale (renewed for Season 2) • Served as developmental editor for 50+ manuscripts, with several titles reaching Amazon Top 20 • Supervised teams of editors, designers, and production editors while managing budgets and workflows • Presented seasonal catalogs to distributors and sales reps, securing strong retail placement

Umano

Feb, 2012 — Mar, 2015 (about 3 years)
Designed and managed editorial production system, growing audience from inception of platform to 2+ million users: •Led daily content curation, commission and discovery, growing Umano’s library to over 50,000 articles •Hired and managed teams of 80+ editors, writers, and voice talent •Managed partnerships with leading publications, such as CNN, CNET, Bloomberg, Forbes, and Al Jazeera America •Developed procedures and best practices for all customer support, social media channels and forums •Launched Umano For Writers program, managing original content creation with 100+ writers

Portfolio

Kill Creek

Thomas, Scott

Mr. & Mrs. American Pie

McDaniel, Juliet

The Punch Escrow

Klein, Tal M.

The Savage Instinct

DeLuca, Marjorie

Smithy

Desiree, Amanda

Violet

Thomas, Scott

On Home

Dobias, Becca Spence

Sunshine is Forever

Cowan, Kyle T.

Unscalable

Guo, Charlie

My Place Among Men

Millgate, Kris

Welcome to Deadland

Linville, Zachary Tyler

A God in the Shed

Dubeau, J-F.

Avalon has 39 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Tammy E.

Tammy E.

Feb, 2026

Having finally finished my first manuscript, I viewed the job of finding my editor like a dating process and interviewed several persons- looking for the "perfect fit/match". I needed to find someone who heard my voice and understood what I was trying to do. I am so glad that I "matched" with Av...
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Carolyn A.

Carolyn A.

Jan, 2026

I hired Avalon to edit my debut novel, a 100K-word women's upmarket fiction. Avalon is an exceptional editor and business partner. She delivered a comprehensive chapter-by-chapter, line-by-line review that was clear, actionable, and true to my voice, along with a thoughtful editorial note outlini...
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Adam D.

Adam D.

Jan, 2026

I cannot recommend Avalon enough for work as a developmental editor. Prior to hiring her for my project, she provided examples of the type of feedback she would provide. She delivered and more. Her feedback is specific, helpful, and she provides examples to provide revision guidance. This was exa...
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Cindy Z.

Cindy Z.

Dec, 2025

Working with Avalon has been a great experience from start to finish. She is incredibly skilled as an editor. She was able to understand my voice and anticipate what I was trying to express. I felt like she could read my mind. She was encouraging and insightful. She offered thoughtful guidance an...
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Minerva S.

Minerva S.

Dec, 2025

Avalon gave me the encouragement I needed to bring out the joy in my writing. I highly recommend her. She tunes into your voice, your style while providing structural guidance and character nuances to strengthen your story. I will hire her again.

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