About

Diana Courtney-Smith, Wordsmith

What could be better than having an ally who is dedicated solely to helping you write the incredible book that you envision? As an experienced editor, I’m committed to helping you write the very best book possible in a dynamic, creative, and nurturing environment. I've always had a deep and abiding fascination for the dark side of human nature and all things otherworldly, and I can help you develop compelling characters, and build atmosphere and narrative arcs that will transport your readers.

I've worked in the literary and learning worlds in many diverse capacities which has given me a unique and comprehensive perspective, along with the experience, insights, and empathy it takes to be a dedicated and skilled editor. In addition to editing fiction and non-fiction, I also beta read and review fiction books (US and UK published) for prominent book and review websites. This type of work allows me to also look at your manuscript through the lens of a professional reader, which is a very different perspective from an editor.

So how do my unique background and skills translate into helping you? Well, not only will I provide a safe environment in which you can thrive as a writer and ultimately complete the book you've visualized, I will:

set you up for success as you continue on your writing journey
support you if (when) you hit those sticky spots in your manuscript
identify, explain, and offer solutions for story- and content-level issues
polish your work at the sentence level, and make your work wonderfully consumable by your readers
and celebrate your successes!

My diverse education and literary background, extensive hands-on experience, and dedication to remaining current in the latest editing and coaching skills are only some of the valuable elements I will bring to our partnership. I adore working with my authors, and I’m dedicated to going the extra mile to make sure you are supported and successful! Book your free consultation today, and let’s get started.

Favorite authors include:

Neil Gaiman, Joe Hill, Simone St. James, Elly Griffiths, Ann Cleeves, Riley Sager, Sujata Massey, Barbara Erskine, Daniel Hecht, John Connolly, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Ray Bradbury, Sarah Addison Allen, Darynda Jones, Charlaine Harris, James Herbert, G. M. Malliet, Deanna Raybourne, Anna Lee Huber, Alice Hoffman, Carlos Ruiz Zafon, Paula Brackston, Erin Hart, Charlie Lovett, Douglas Preston & Lee Child, Anne Rice, Laurie King, Amanda Stevens, and Rhys Bowen...to name a few.

Working With Me

Do you work in all genres?

While I specialize in mystery and supernatural fiction, I also work broadly in US and UK-produced fiction and have a number of areas of non-fiction in which I have expertise. To do the type of editing that I do, I feel it’s important that I have an excellent understanding and appreciation of the genres in which I work. I am a voracious reader with many interests, and I have extensive knowledge of readers’ expectations in the categories listed below.

If you’re not sure if your manuscript fits within my body of expertise, please get in touch with me!

Folklore/Mythology
Magical Realism
Paranormal
Horror– all subgenres EXCEPT extreme
Mystery– all subgenres EXCEPT legal
Thriller/Suspense– all subgenres EXCEPT legal, espionage, military, political, technothriller

I spent many, many years writing and editing in learning and development, so I also have expertise in these non-fiction areas:

Mentoring
Career development
Leadership development
Coaching
Management
Communication
General learning and development

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to have a consultation call before we work together?

In short, yes. Each author will run into a unique set of challenges while working on their book. It’s my goal to make your writing journey as pain-free and enjoyable as possible. To do that, I need information and background. During your free consultation call, we’ll discuss where you are in the writing process, what you love about your book/idea, areas where you think you need help, some philosophical stuff so we know if we’re a good fit, and where we need to go next. My only goal is to learn everything I can about you, so I can provide the tailor-made support and services that you need.

How do you calculate your rates?

Each editing project is priced individually, and my rates are based on the median rates established by the Editorial Freelance Association, of which I’m a member. To get a ballpark estimate of your costs, you can see the rates here. As you consider whether this cost fits your budget, here’s a great explanation of what it takes to effectively edit your book.

I know that each author has different needs and budgets to work with. If you have concerns about cost, get in touch, and we'll work to find a solution that gives you the help you need at a cost you can afford.

Why do you insist on having a signed contract?

This is for the protection of the author as well as the editor! Each project is custom-tailored to fit the needs of the author. It’s important that there be a written record of what each author has requested, what services I’ve agreed to provide, and the project timeline. I also include information stating all work is the author’s, and I have no expectation of further remuneration.

Can you guarantee that my book will sell?

As much as the nurturing part of my soul would like to say “Yes”, the honest answer has to be “No”. Reading is subjective, and finding an agent or publishing house to take on your book is a combination of talent, luck, and timing. In fact, the work you do after you finish writing your book is just as hard as actually writing it! Even though I am not an expert in publishing, I will send you off with a list of resources and a checklist of tasks that will get you started on the right path!

Book Your Free Consultation

"An editor doesn’t just read, he reads well, and reading well is a creative, powerful act.”

–Susan Bell

Diana Courtney-Smith, Wordsmith

Working With Me

Do you work in all genres?

Frequently Asked Questions

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