Shannon Thompson

Shannon Thompson – Editor

Book coach and editor with 10+ years of experience. My clients include award-winning authors and publishers. Fantasy, romance, thrillers.

Overview

As a book coach and editor with 10+ years of experience, I am communicative, focused, and hungry for new stories! Many of my clients have gone on to win awards, and both of my mentees during Pitch Wars now have agents and book deals with the Big Five.


I specialize in young adult and adult fiction. I particularly thrive with mystery/thrillers, fantasy, and post-apocalyptic fiction. I prefer stories with a romantic subplot, but it isn’t necessary. I also love when the backdrop feels like a character.


My editing philosophy is to help you tell the best story that you want to tell. I am not here to change your vision. I am here to support your vision. That's why I always have a phone call with a writer first. I love hearing about your story and publishing goals. As an author myself, I understand how stressful receiving an edit letter can be. That’s why I provide organized notes on the manuscript, as well as a secondary outline for reference. I am always here to answer any questions that you may have. I am flexible, and I meet deadlines. I can even hop on ZOOM for a call, but if you prefer e-mail, that's fine, too. Whatever is easiest for you.


Regarding book coaching, I keep up with the latest publishing trends, both in the traditional landscape and the indie sphere. I started as an indie author, and I'm now represented by GZLA. I've also interned at Writers House.


I look forward to hearing from you.

Services
Fiction
Dystopian Fantasy Horror Paranormal Romance Romantic Suspense Young Adult Fantasy
Languages
English (US)
Certifications
  • BA in English

Work experience

Pitch Wars

Aug, 2020 — Jul, 2022 (almost 2 years)

I mentored two authors during Pitch Wars, alongside my friend, author, and literary agent Sandra Proudman. Both of our mentees went on to get agents and book deals with the Big Five: Miranda Sun's young adult contemporary fantasy IF I HAVE TO BE HAUNTED (Harper Teen 2023) and D.S. Allen's middle grade horror THE SKELETON FLUTE (Aladdin Books 2024)

Writers House

Oct, 2023 — Present

I was formally trained in editorial letters, readers reports, and query letter review. I also generated detailed pitch letters for book fairs, book-to-film consideration, and more.

Mid-Continent Public Library

Feb, 2018 — Jan, 2024 (almost 6 years)

I served on the Editorial Board of the award-winning Woodneath Press, where we evaluated manuscript submissions and published numerous award-winning novels, anthologies, and more. I also taught numerous writing courses, including Starting a Writing Project, Writing Resources, NaNoWriMo Tips, and more.

Self-employed

Sep, 2012 — Present

From 2012-2019, I edited numerous novels for authors and publishers, including award-winning novelists. I paused my services in 2019 because I was working full time for the library. Now I'm back and ready to take on new clients!

Portfolio

The Skeleton Flute

Allen, Damara

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Query Letter Review Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Editorial Assessment Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Query Letter Review
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Rain

Johnson, C.E.

Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Editorial Assessment Book Coaching
Editorial Assessment
Chainsaw Honeymoon

Ramirez, Steven

Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
The Scriptlings

Suciu, Sorin

Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review Book Coaching
Developmental Editing Book Coaching
Editorial Assessment Query Letter Review Book Coaching

Shannon has 1 review

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Taliah D.

Taliah D.

Apr, 2024

As a book coach, Shannon was great in helping me find my footing with thoughtful and encouraging feedback. She made sure to provide me with resources to continue my writing journey with confidence. I'd recommend her to anyone in need of assistance to get their story moving.
Shannon T.
Thank you so much for your review, Taliah! It was a joy working with you. I am cheering you on!

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