Developmental editor Karen McKellar

I’m Karen McKellar and, though I’m based in Scotland, I’ve worked with writers from around the world. I’m particularly interested in horror, science fiction, historical, and literary writing. But I’ve also edited romance, fantasy, and crime/thriller.

I’m on a mission to help writers knock out their best work. This is why I chose to specialise in developmental editing. Because, while grammar and spelling are important, a good story with strong characters is a reader’s number one priority.

My developmental editing shows you how to redraft your novel with confidence. Advice is given on what is best for you and your novel. Armed with this feedback and revision guidelines, you can rework your novel with confidence.

Professional Training

  • Developmental Editing - Theory
    Developmental Editing in Practice
    (Tutor Sophie Playle, Spring/Summer 2018)
  • Introduction to Developmental Editing, Author-Editor Clinic (Summer 2018)
    (Tutor Barbara Sjoholm)
  • Intermediate and Advanced Developmental Editing of Fiction courses at Editorial Freelancers Association
    (Tutor Jennifer Lawler, Autumn 2018 - January 2019)
  • Book Mapping - Editorial Freelancers Association 2018
  • What is Copy-editing? / A Copy-Editors Guide to Working With Authors / Essential Grammar (Publishing Training Centre)
  • Creative Copywriting Certificate (Distinction) 2019-2020 (Publishing Training Centre)
  • Direct Response Copywriting 2020-2021 (San Francisco School of Copywriting)
  • Write and Ignite - Sales Pages (Copy Posse)
  • Proofreading 1: Introduction 2020-2021 (Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders)
  • Proofreading 2: Headway 2021-2022 (Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders)
  • Copy Posse Launch Files 2021-2022

Genres

My developmental editing services cover the following genres:

  • Science fiction, fantasy, and horror - adult and YA.
  • Thriller and crime - adult and YA.
  • Historical fiction - adult and YA.
  • Romance - adult and YA.
  • Literary fiction - adult and YA.
  • Memoir - adult and YA.

Professional Memberships

ALLi Partner Member
Member of the Editorial Freelancers Association

My Core Values

Affordability

Developmental editing is the most expensive form of editing, putting it beyond the reach of many writers. Ask about custom packages tailored to your budget.

Empathy

You find it nerve-wracking to have your work analysed by a stranger. You will be treated with respect and empathy. My goal is to nurture your writing.

Customer Service

You’re entitled to good customer service, including timely communication. Your needs are assessed and I do my best to meet them.

Coaching

If you’re a newer writer, your developmental edit should include an element of coaching, to bring your skills and knowledge up to a whole new level.

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