Ronit Wagman – Editor

Drawing on more than a decade’s experience acquiring and editing books at Doubleday (Penguin Random House), I evaluate manuscripts the same way a publisher would: looking closely at character, structure, narrative momentum, the emotional experience of the reader, and where the book might fit into the current marketplace.

Is your protagonist actively driving the story, or reacting to events around them? Are their motivations, desires, and fears clear on the page? Does each scene build tension and move the narrative forward? My feedback highlights what’s working, identifies areas for improvement, and offers concrete suggestions for revision—along with the reasoning behind them—so you can apply these insights to future projects.

I launched my independent editorial practice in 2015 after more than a decade working under legendary publisher Nan A. Talese. Since then, I’ve worked with a wide range of writers—from aspiring authors to #1 New York Times bestselling novelist Jennifer Weiner, Reese’s Book Club pick Alka Joshi, and the late U.S. Senator Carl Levin.

I hold a BFA in Theatre from Syracuse University, where I developed a deep foundation in character-building and storytelling—skills I bring to every manuscript. I specialize in literary, book club, and upmarket fiction, as well as memoir.

“Every so often you get the chance to work with an editor who understands the heart and soul of your work, and for me, that’s Ronit. Without her editorial wisdom, there would be no novel.”

—Wendy Francis, author of Betting on Good

“After reading through your notes in one sitting this afternoon, you feel like an old friend. I felt so immediately comfortable with your voice and thought process. Thank you for taking such care with my manuscript. I don’t feel like I could possibly be in better hands.”

—Sarah Vacchiano, author of Soft Launch

“Thank you for encouraging me to dig, to be honest and creative and forthright and brave. My publisher was blown away by the shape of my manuscript, and she has worked in publishing for years. So I wanted to say a huge thank you for all your help, guidance, and support.”

—Jen Butler, author of Mom, Rediscovered

“Ronit was an exceptional editor. She seemed to have an intuitive sense of what I was trying to describe and helped me figure out the clearest way to express myself. She was kind, sensitive and generous and always framed her suggestions in an encouraging and empowering way. Her editing made my book immeasurably better.”

—Leah Vincent, author of Cut Me Loose

“Ronit’s feedback helped me finesse my manuscript so that it was in great shape and ultimately helped me land a US deal. I am forever grateful!”

—Natasha Scripture, author of Man Fast

"What a pleasure it was to work with Ronit! Her insightful comments and spot-on suggestions helped make The Henna Artist the kind of novel that readers want to get lost in, devour and recommend to all their friends!”

—NYT bestselling author Alka Joshi