Mission Statement

As a senior editor working in New York trade publishing for over 30 years, I have experienced firsthand the fundamental changes that have taken place in our industry. The most recent is the self-publishing revolution. Technology has empowered authors to take control of their work for the first time in history. While publication by a mainstream house remains significant, it is no longer the only path to commercial and artistic success.

However, despite the changes that have taken place in the nature of publication, one thing remains constant: dedication to quality. The author’s attention to the highest professional standards in his or her work is crucial in this highly competitive marketplace. Whether fiction or nonfiction, self-published or published by a traditional publisher, readers expect an excellent reading experience in each book they buy.

In the fast-paced world of traditional publishing, professional presentation is paramount. Agents won’t take on projects unless they are near perfect. Editors at publishing houses don’t have time to edit books anymore, so unless a submission comes to them as polished and professional as possible, they will reject it. The pressure is even greater for self-published authors. They are selling directly to consumers. If your book is not as good as it can be, readers will let their friends know. It’s up to authors to make sure their books are as strong as possible. Often it requires some professional editorial guidance. Writing and selling a book can be a difficult and isolating experience. It helps to have a dedicated professional on your side.

In this brave new world, independent editors play a crucial role. Seasoned professionals such as myself who have spent many years evaluating submissions and working with authors on their work, know what agents, publishers and readers want. I’ve published hundreds of successful books, including dozens New York Times and national bestsellers. I’ve read thousands of manuscripts and proposals. I’ve edited nearly every kind of commercial fiction and nonfiction book. I know what it takes to make a book a high quality, commercial endeavor and am happy to share this expertise with you.

I give authors the benefit of my inside knowledge about this industry we all love. Whether it’s the real story of how a book gets selected and published by a traditional publisher or how to negotiate the sometimes challenging self-publishing process, I partner with authors to achieve their publication goals. First and foremost, I help with the actual text itself, working to apply my experience to make it the best book it can be.

While I enjoy working with professional authors and their publishers, what I find most enriching is working with first time authors. I share their excitement with them on their books. My clients have seen their manuscripts develop and grow into finished and professional books. Some are being reviewed and accepted by agents. Some have submitted to and been accepted by publishers. Many have self-published with great success.

I look forward to helping you bring your book and your talent to the readership it deserves.