My mission
On a smaller scale I want to encourage authors to write the kind of books that they want to write. Books that had to be written. Books that will stand the test of time.
But ultimately, I aim to re-instil the love of books and reading in people, as literature is one of the pillars of civilisation. Today, we're consuming content in pill form or as images, and we struggle to hold our attention on anything for longer than a few seconds. Many people can’t appreciate books anymore. Novels are written and edited so they can be read faster – they don’t require much thinking and that way the reader can move on to the next book that will also leave no impression on them.
Readers don’t like to be tricked; they appreciate honesty and authenticity, and with everything that’s going on in the world, they want to read stories that will stay with them, that they can hold on to. But very few books published today will still be read in ten years, not to mention a century from now. Being an idealist at heart, I want to bring creative writing back to its existential roots, and help authors of great books make a living out of their passion.
About me
-
I have over 10 years' experience as an editor and translator helping indie authors enhance their artistic expression and the clarity and coherence of their novels, poems, and short stories.
​
-
I work predominantly in contemporary fiction but I am well read across genres. For the past 20 years I’ve been tracking industry trends to keep up with the shifting landscape of the publishing and self-publishing sector.
​​
-
Unlike many editors, I am a writer first. I have been writing creatively for over 3 decades, so I have a broad understan-ding of the unique challenges of the writing process.
​​
-
With degrees in English Philology and American Culture I have gained knowledge of all things English, such as grammar and writing, as well as British, American and European culture and literature. My other interests include: ancient peoples, philosophy, foreign languages, science (in particular Earth sciences), business management, and sustainability.
Why work with me?
As a former teacher I approach my clients and their work with patience, an eagle eye for detail, and understanding that one size does not fit all. I tailor my service to each client’s abilities and needs.
I pride myself on being able to stay objective and be harsh where necessary. You’re not paying me to sugarcoat things, and I’m not in the business of stroking egos. Whether you’re here because you hope to publish books that will bring you fame and riches or because you want to become better at the craft, my main objective is always to give you clear professional guidance and encouragement to try harder.
I help you build up the confidence and enthusiasm to face the world of reading critics and I do that by forcing you to dissect your manuscript like an impassionate surgeon. The accolades will come later, and your success will in a way also be my success, which is the best thing about this job.