Overview
As an acute reader and experienced editor of literary fiction, commercial fiction and narrative non-fiction, I can help you find the authentic contours of your novel, memoir or short story. My editorial approach is detailed, insightful and attentive, guided by established craft techniques but primarily responsive to your individual voice and vision. With a multicultural background and additional experience in literary translation, I bring sensitivity and precision to all my projects.
I primarily offer developmental edits and manuscript assessments. My written reports are longer and more detailed than the industry standard; my goal is not just to improve the work before me, but to give my clients tools to become better writers. I'm very open to discussing your expectations and questions, and I will always include sample edits or excerpts from past work in my offers, so you can see what I do.
Feedback from Past Collaborations:
"I couldn't have dreamed of a better reader. You unlocked a lot for me in the story. Thank you so much for taking my work seriously and sharing your knowledge. Your notes and comments have been brilliant - so professional and thorough. I'm really over the moon and I have you to thank, I couldn't have done it without."
-- Peter McNamara, author of 'The New Place', second place in RTÉ Radio 1 Francis MacManus Short Story Competition (2018)
"I am so lucky to have you. This is perfect. It's been moving, really, to read a fresh response in real-time and this helped to centre me profoundly in respect of this book. You are such a great reader, I am incredibly grateful. You've sent me into a tailspin of realisations and about two months' more work at the very least but it will be a much, much better book.'
-- Niamh Campbell, author of 'This Happy' and winner of the Sunday Times Audible Short Story Award (2020)Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs
Fiction
Chick Lit
Contemporary Fiction
Cultural & Ethnic
Literary Fiction
Post-Apocalyptic
Psychological Thriller
Short Story
Languages
English (UK)
English (US)
Awards
- Longlisted for the Deborah Rogers Foundation Award 2020
- Shortlisted for the Bridport Prize 2020
- Highly commended in the Stack Magazine Awards for Best Original Fiction 2018
- Awarded Literature Bursary by the Irish Arts Council, 2018
- Irish Arts Council Agility Award 2022
- Shortlisted for the Bridport Prize 2022
Certifications
- BA in Creative Writing from Florida State University
- MSc in Literature and Transatlanticism from the University of Edinburgh
Work experience
Self-employed
Jan, 2014 —
Present
Dalkey Archive Press
Jul, 2013 —
Jan, 2014
(6 months)
Portfolio
Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Editorial Assessment
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Editorial Assessment
Sydney has 45 reviews
Professionalism
Quality
Value
Responsiveness
Jane H.
Dec, 2024
Pinned
Alex P.
Apr, 2024
Pinned
Paul O.
Jul, 2023
Pinned
Henry S.
Mar, 2025
Stefano S.
Feb, 2025
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