Welcome

I am a qualified editor and proofreader with a proven track record of delivering the highest quality results over many years. I specialise in all levels of fiction editing in a variety of genres, including historical fiction, romance, speculative fiction, and thrillers. I also enjoy working on memoirs and other non-fiction writing, especially in the humanities.  Whatever the project, I guarantee to provide a personal, friendly and supportive service. ​If English is your second language, I will help you to create writing that is grammatically correct, clearly expressed and in an appropriate style. Please contact me to talk about how I can help you.  ​

New and emerging authors

It’s a big moment once you’ve completed your book, but the next step may seem even bigger – asking someone other than your nearest and dearest to read it. How will you take it to the next stage, preparing it to be published and be read by hundreds, maybe thousands of people? That’s when you may want to consider engaging a professional editor, someone with experience and technical expertise who will give you honest, objective feedback and work with you to get your book as good as it can possibly be. 

‘It’s particularly important to me to feel supported in my work – not criticised – and I have found that Helen’s feedback is always positive, well-targeted and respectful of the creative process. I have found her guidance and advice to be helpful, informative and educational.’  Paul Teague, Sci-Fi & Thriller writer

Choosing an editor

​Choosing the right editor to work on your novel is always a big decision.  Not only do you need to find someone with the necessary experience and skills, it is equally important to find someone you are happy to work with. The various levels of editing can seem bewildering at first. Do you want a manuscript evaluation, developmental editing, line-by-line editing or proofreading? Perhaps it’s a mixture of all these. If you send me a sample of your work, I will be able to give you an idea of how I could help you within the budget you have available. Whatever stage you are at with your book, I can help develop your work and make it ready for publication. Have a look at my services page to find out more. 

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​​​‘The quality of Helen’s work is excellent and my writing has improved as a result of working with her. I can write a good story, Helen turns it into a great book.’

​ Rob Ashman
Author of The Mechanic trilogy (Bloodhound Books)

‘Helen’s professionalism made it a pleasure to work with her from the start. She provided helpful communication, comments and advice, kept on schedule, and most of all, I was delighted with her work.’
Virginie Bonfils Bedos
Author of Gatekeepers 
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‘Helen’s approach is professional, thorough and friendly, and working with her has been an enjoyable and educational experience. She was reassuring and encouraging. She has become my mentor!
I very much recommend Helen. I am so pleased with the outcome and I think I am lucky to have found someone like her.’
  Dominique Douglas
Author of The Man Who Played The Piano

Testimonials

Meet Helen

​​I have extensive experience in both editing and proofreading over many years. I love working with the written word and helping others to communicate more effectively. I am a Professional member of the Society for Editors and Proofreaders. Please look at my entry in the Directory of Editorial Services.

In addition to training in editing and proofreading, I have a degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Reading and a master’s degree from the University of London.

I am very lucky to be based in Cumbria on the edge of the beautiful Lake District and when I am not working I can usually be found walking the fells with my family and our dog Charlie. 

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