Vanessa Anderson

Vanessa Anderson – Editor

15+ years as an enthusiastic editor, helping authors polish prose, sharpen storytelling, and prepare manuscripts for successful publication.

Overview

╭──────────..★..─╮

"I worked with Vanessa to edit and publish my debut series. Her vast industry knowledge proved beneficial throughout the whole process. Her witty sense of humor made each step of the way easier to understand and navigate. I was most impressed with her "notes" after she completed a full review of each manuscript. I expected to receive a few pages of notes along with the grammatical corrections. I was blown away by what she provided: an incredibly thorough assessment of what worked, suggestions for improvement, and considerations that had never occurred to me. And, once each book was published, the relationship didn't end. Even today, she continues to answer my many questions and offer support and advice! Highly recommend." — A. E. Faulkner, Author of The Nature's Fury series ╰─..★..──────────╯

"A good editor doesn't rewrite words, she rewires synapses." ― S. Kelley Harrell ​

I’m a seasoned editorial and publishing professional with a passion for shaping narratives that resonate. Over the past decade, I’ve helped both fiction and nonfiction authors sharpen their voice, refine their structure, and elevate their manuscripts to publication-ready clarity. I specialize in developmental editing of fiction and line-level wordsmithing, with a knack for guiding stories—whether fictional arcs or real-world arguments—from rough ideas to poignant prose.

What sets me apart is not just my editorial expertise, but my ability to bring empathy, insight, and precision to every project. I believe that editing is as much about honoring an author’s vision as it is about improving clarity and flow. By offering thoughtful feedback, transparent guidance, and a collaborative mindset, I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of authors all over the world transform their work into impactful, professional-level books.

Beyond editing, I’m a published author, blogger, and lifelong writer. I stay immersed in craft through writer communities, conferences, and ongoing professional development. When I’m not working, you’ll find me lost in a novel, exploring local arts scenes, or curating a soundtrack for my own writing.

Let’s connect if you’re an author seeking a reliable editorial partner—or simply love a great story. I’d love to chat about your work or the books that inspire you. ☕️

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs
Fiction
Cozy Mysteries Historical Mysteries Magical Realism Military Science Fiction Paranormal Romance
Languages
English (UK) English (US)
Awards
  • Pushcart Prize Nomination, 2018
  • Firebird Book Award, 2021
Certifications
  • Professional Certificate in Editing, UC Berkeley
  • MFA in Creative Writing, Spalding University

Work experience

Indie Owl Press

May, 2017 — Present
Manuscript evaluation and acquisition, working with authors to refine structure, voice, and style while preserving their unique vision. Manages editorial teams, maintains house standards, coordinates production, supports authors, and ensures projects meet deadlines, budgets, and quality expectations.

Self-employed

May, 2010 — Present
Developmental, line, and copyediting to help authors strengthen structure, voice, and clarity while preserving their unique style. Coaches writers through the creative process, offering guidance on storytelling, goal-setting, and overcoming obstacles. Advises on manuscript preparation, publishing strategies, and project management to support authors from draft to publication.

SAGA Egmont

Mar, 2022 — Jun, 2024 (about 2 years)
Reviewed and edited manuscripts to improve structure, plot, pacing, character development, voice, and overall clarity while maintaining the author’s style. Collaborated with authors, ensured adherence to publisher guidelines, fact-checked, proofread, and met all project deadlines.

Dzanc Books

Jan, 2010 — Feb, 2011 (about 1 year)
Assisted the editorial team with manuscript evaluation, developmental and copyediting, and proofreading while supporting authors through revisions. Helped manage submissions, track workflows, and prepare manuscripts for publication, gaining hands-on experience in the publishing process.

The Louisville Review

Nov, 2009 — May, 2012 (over 2 years)
Assisted in reviewing and selecting submissions, providing developmental and copyediting support, and maintaining the magazine’s literary standards. Collaborated with authors and editorial staff to guide revisions, manage workflows, and prepare content for publication.

Portfolio

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
The Light in the Sound

Anderson, V. G.

Bread and Beauty Publishing

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading Query Letter Review
Love in the Corners: A Novelette

Anderson, V. G.

Bread & Beauty Publishing

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading Query Letter Review
Spark Out: (Boxer Boys gangland series Book 2)

Rippington, Nick

Cabrilon Books

Copy Editing Proofreading
The Traveler (The Forevers Book 2)

Smith, G Michael

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Speaker of Words

Stone, Evelyn Grimald

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Mordred's Coals

Barley, Michael

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Dark Ouroboros

Barley, Michael

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Woodstock Bound

Bateman, Steven

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Talin and the Tree : The Legend - Book 1

DosSantos, Stephanie

BlackDog BrownDog Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Song Over The Bones

Meszaros, Melissa

Oil on Water Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
The Path of the Vestal

Easterling, J D

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
I Trust You to Kill Me

Howe, J. A.

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Copy Editing Book Coaching
Witch of the Wild Woods

Hughes, Autumn G

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Mind Storms (The Forevers Book 1)

Smith, G Michael

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
A Kestrel Circles

Smith, G Michael

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
The One Who Could Not Fly (The Wing Cycle Book 1)

Stone, Evelyn Grimald

Tarney Brae Creative Endeavours

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Not So Common People

Gamache, T

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching
Copy Editing Proofreading
Adeline

Torres, Mark

Indie Owl Press

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Book Coaching

Vanessa has 1 review

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

J H.

J H.

Dec, 2025

Pinned
Vanessa delivered exactly what I needed for my military science fiction novel—a thorough developmental edit that went far beyond surface-level feedback. Her 14-page cover letter alone demonstrated she didn't just read my manuscript; she understood it. She broke down each major character's themati...
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Vanessa A.
Michael, this absolutely made my day — thank you! Your project is a joy to work on, and I’m so glad the feedback helped clarify and strengthen what’s already a compelling world. I can’t wait to see...
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