Kelly Winter Editing

Sharper prose. Stronger storytelling. Still your voice.

I offer thoughtful line editing and copyediting for fiction authors, helping you improve clarity, flow and consistency while keeping your individual voice and style intact.Whether you're writing your first novel or preparing a manuscript for self-publication, I'll help you make your writing the strongest version of itself.

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Editing Services for Fiction Authors

Line Editing
A close, sentence-level edit focused on clarity, flow, rhythm, word choice and readability. I’ll tighten awkward or repetitive prose, flag anything that isn’t quite landing, and suggest changes where the prose could be stronger.Copyediting
A meticulous edit for grammar, punctuation, spelling, usage and consistency, including a style sheet recording editorial decisions and manuscript-specific conventions.EPUB FormattingI offer standalone EPUB formatting for fiction authors, whether or not you've used my editing services.I'll turn your completed manuscript into a clean, reflowable ebook, with consistent styling and a working table of contents. I'll also check the finished file in an ebook reader to make sure everything displays as intended.Sample Edit
Not sure whether we're the right fit? I offer a sample edit of up to 1,200 words for $50, so you can see how I work on your manuscript before committing to a full edit. If you decide to book the full manuscript, the sample fee will be deducted from your final invoice.

Approach

Your voice, not mine.

Good editing shouldn’t make every writer sound the same. My job is to understand what you’re trying to do, then help you do it more clearly and effectively.I edit with a light but attentive hand: tightening where the prose needs it, questioning what isn’t clear, and leaving alone what already works. I’ll explain significant changes and flag places where the final decision belongs to you.The aim is to help your writing become the strongest version of itself.With a background in piano performance and music education, I also welcome enquiries about editorial and proofreading projects involving music, educational materials and printed music.I'm based in Norfolk, UK, and work remotely with authors wherever they are in the world.

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Professional Affiliations

Member (Entry Level) of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP)Listed in the Find a Music Editor (FaME) Directory

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Client Feedback

When I Did Drugs in the ’90s
Brandon Grubb · Fiction · Copyediting"Kelly brings a level of expertise and excellence to my projects that gives me a supreme sense of confidence in sharing them with the world. She makes overwhelming tasks enjoyable, and I never hesitate to implement her ideas and suggestions."— Brandon Grubb, author

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether I need line editing or copyediting?

If you're not sure, that's absolutely fine! Line editing focuses on how your writing reads, while copyediting deals with grammar, punctuation, spelling and consistency. There's some overlap between the two, and what your manuscript needs will depend on where you are in the writing process. I'm happy to discuss your project and help you work out the best approach.

Do you work with first-time authors?

Absolutely! I work primarily with independent fiction authors, including writers preparing their first novel for publication. You don't need to know all the publishing terminology before getting in touch.

Can I try a sample edit before committing to a full manuscript?

Yes. I offer a paid sample edit of up to 1,200 words for $50, so you can see how I work before making a larger commitment. If you decide to book a full edit, I'll deduct the sample fee from your final invoice.

Can I book EPUB formatting without editing services?

Yes. EPUB formatting is available as a standalone service for completed, finalised manuscripts. You don't need to have worked with me on the editing beforehand.

Will you change my writing style?

No. My aim is to strengthen your writing, not make it sound like mine. I'll suggest changes where something could be clearer or more effective, but your individual voice and style will always be the priority.

Contact

Have a manuscript you'd like to talk about?

Tell me a little about your project, what kind of editing you're looking for, and where you are in the process.
I'll get back to you to discuss what you need and whether we're a good fit.