Zena Shapter – Editor

I'm a multi-award-winning editor and author with a lifelong passion for story. I've worked in the publishing industry since 1997, as a freelance editor since 2003, and as a writer since I was born. The first thing I ever touched was a pen in the doctor's top pocket! I started my first writers' group in high school, published mine and others' work in the school magazine, then studied English at uni, and have since worked with countless traditional publishers and self-publishers, blending proficient professionalism with friendly nurturing to get a wide range of client manuscripts print-ready.

As an author (science fiction, fantasy, horror, spec fic, women's, thriller & suspense, crossover), I *genuinely* understand what writers need from an edit – perhaps more than an editor who has never written themselves! I've had three literary agents represent my work over the years, which means I know how to pitch to commissioning editors and what they want to see, if you'd like to take the traditional route. As an inclusive creativity advocate, I am passionate about ensuring you say what you want to say to the world with a contemporary lens. As a keen traveller (I've been to almost 50 countries), I'm open-minded and interested in a vast array of topics, experiences and thoughts (including inspirational and new age). I'm a very empathetic person, which enables me to really feel my way into any narrative voice, whether fictional or non-fictional – hence the variety of genre in which I work. I'm also very logical and conscientious (I was once a solicitor!), which means I'm extremely thorough and excellent with structure. With every project, you can trust that I will use my extensive knowledge and experience to elevate your story, word by word!

Given my extensive experiences, I am also able to assist writers with their publishing strategy, agent and publishing queries, and distribution options.

–> Can you afford me? Before sending me your brief, please check you have the correct budget. Being excellent at what I do, I'm usually 8% above the average cost on this Pricing Calculator: https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/editing/cost

–> For book coaching, you can get help with developing story ideas, predicting complications, staying on track and motivated, making work marketable, even getting your work published – including creating submission materials (i.e. query letter and/or synopsis), considering self-publishing options, and author promotion. Pick my brain!

–> Extra Reviews:

“Thank you so much for the report which I found spot on in terms of specifying the what, where and why interventions that will help communication between text and audience. Your advice has invigorated me by setting what I hope will be achievable goals.” Jo McMillan.

“At the end of my writing process, Zena was able to use her amazingly sensitive and competent skills as an editor, spending many hours on my precious manuscript, turning it into a more polished version of itself. I cannot thank her enough for her time, dedication, and encouragement. She is worth her weight in gold!” Rosalie Savage.