How to start? You’re not looking for a picture of my cat, I suspect.

I write. Always have. My mother said I was born with a pen in my hand, and I have no way to prove her wrong.

I’ve written plays (produced in theatres and festivals in Michigan, where I lived for 28 years); poetry (ask me about the Sonnet Bomber); and fiction. I created Flying Trunk Stories, sending letter-format stories from magical creatures to children by post. I still do this on request. It makes children very happy. And that makes me happy, because I have teaching in my blood and can’t scrub it out.

Currently I’m writing a novel.

Not a cat

As a writer, I understand on a visceral level what you’re going through. I get you. As a teacher, I don’t just tell you what could be better about your manuscript. I make sure you understand how to fix it and why.

I’ve edited thousands of projects. I’ve dissected, reconfigured, cleaned up, polished, and rewritten all kinds of documents and manuscripts. When I moved to Sheffield in 2019 I discovered a writing community, brilliant people cheering each other on, genuinely revelling in each other’s successes. Here’s a delightful writing podcast I took part in. They welcomed me and celebrated my writing. Editing is my way to celebrate theirs—and yours.

I only take on creative projects. I do what brings me joy. I’m hooked by the process—it’s a heady feeling, to find the key to your manuscript’s success and release the power in your words. It helps me understand my own writing better. And I get to cheer you on.

I studied English Lit at University (BA and MA). I know how to take a book apart and see what makes it tick. I have a highly trained ear for a writer’s voice. My theatre background also has helped me develop an arterial understanding of why writers use words in the way they do—and how to help them do it better.

Living on three continents in six different countries changes a person. Opens you up. I’m used to seeing things from different perspectives and trying on other people’s points of view. That matters because people matter. I want to get to know you, learn how you think, so I can find the best way to help you and your book.

That’s about all, unless you want to hear about my obsession with mountains. Wait, what? There’s one more thing? Oh, go on then. You twisted my arm. Here:

A cat

My Background

Freelance Editor

2020 – Present

Writer

Playwright, poet, author

Creator of Flying Trunk Stories (magical story-experiences for children)

1982 – Present

Theatre Practitioner

Actor, director, dramaturg, working with multiple theatre companies, schools, and other organisations

1985 – 2019

Educator

English and Drama teacher, School Head, and Professor of Transfigurations.

1986 – 2015