Editorial Services
Your words, your vision.
Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, I help strengthen your voice, clarify your narrative, and prepare your manuscript for publication.
With decades of experience in journalism and publishing, I help authors shape their manuscripts into compelling, polished books—while staying true to their voice. I specialize in fiction and nonfiction, including memoir, history, and business, offering everything from big-picture developmental editing to detailed copy editing. Whether you’re refining a draft or starting from scratch, I provide clear, practical feedback to help you take your book to the next level.
Six Questions Every Author Should Ask
Listen to this podcast for a glimpse into how I work as an editor.
My background in journalism, including leadership roles at Foreword Reviews and the Alliance of Independent Authors, has given me a sharp editorial eye and a deep understanding of storytelling. I’ve worked with authors across genres, from memoir and history to fiction and business books, ensuring their words are clear, compelling, and true to their voice.
Services
I focus on clarity, structure, and flow while respecting your style and intent. Whether you need a big-picture developmental edit, a careful copy edit, or a manuscript evaluation, I provide direct, constructive feedback to help you take your book to the next level.
Developmental Editing
I help authors shape their manuscripts at any stage—whether it’s a rough draft, a revised version, or just an idea. My focus is on structure, clarity, and storytelling while ensuring your voice remains intact. We work together to make sure your book says exactly what you want it to say.
Copy Editing
At this stage, the story is set, but the details need fine-tuning. I check for consistency, factual accuracy, internal logic, and flow while correcting grammar, spelling, and style issues. The goal is a clean, professional manuscript that’s ready for readers.
Manuscript Evaluation
If you’re not ready for a full edit, I provide a detailed assessment of your manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses. My evaluation includes specific recommendations on structure, clarity, and areas for improvement. This feedback helps you decide on the next steps for your book.
What clients are saying…
Nate Methot“Howard has gone above and beyond to guide me through my first book. My memoir is much richer and more meaningful because of his direction.”
A Life Derailed: My Journey With ALS
Judy Gruen“Howard showed me how to take my collection of blog posts and shape it into a compelling, flowing narrative. He knew exactly what needed to be added, cut, or clarified, and I found a publisher almost immediately after submitting.”
Bylines and Blessings: Writing My Way Home
Dr. J.D. Remy“Howard pushed me to dig deep and improve my prose. He was patient, encouraging, and always available to help me refine my work.”
Ballad of a Sober Man
Read more testimonials on my Reedsy profile, including …
“Howard provided top-quality developmental edit and book coaching support for my first book, a memoir. He gave me confidence, asked the right questions, made suggestions, did some line edits that produced a well-structured book ready for Beta Readers. His deep literary experience, calm professional approach, and always on-point observations shone through at every interaction. Thank you, Howard!”