Welcome

I am an editor specializing in both fiction and nonfiction. I have edited over one hundred books, working with both independent and traditionally published authors. I always bring a personal touch to my editing work, because I not only enjoy my profession but also want to see my clients succeed. To that end, I offer considerably more with my editing services than making sure your prose's grammar is fine and your writing is typo-free. For example, if you are writing a detective novel, and he/she is a likable sleuth, I am going to offer you suggestions as to plot and/or character detail that will help ensure your readers cheer on your heroes. Editing software can offer you suggestions about tightening up your prose, but not even the very best can offer something as personalized as feedback about plot and character development. Especially feedback that is as polite and constructive as mine.

I believe editing a book is a collaborative effort between author and editor, so I always keep in close touch with my clients, sending them questions and updates as the project progresses.

The fiction genres I usually work on are mystery, historical, fantasy, literary, sci-fi, western, romantic drama/suspense, and action-adventure. For nonfiction, I usually work on self-help, how-to, history, railroads/transportation, and memoir.

In addition to communicating via email, telephone, and text message, I can also confer with clients via Skype, Zoom, and other videoconferencing platforms.

In closing, to me, making sure a mansucript is sound is like a track crew inspecting a railroad line. They need to make sure the rails, spikes, ties, etc. are nice and smooth so trains can roll along without incident. If you are seeking a cordial editor with a eye for detail that can ensure your prose is as smooth as a well-maintained rail line, contact me and let’s see how I can ensure your prose is on what I like to call “the write track"!

Sincerely,

Tony Held

Site Update: 2/11/2026

Currently booking for February, 2026.

The new logo is now live!

I am still offering 25% off any editing service for works over 50K words, and 15% off for works below 50K.

I am very pleased with the editing work Tony did on my last novel. Not only did he grind through it in an efficient manner, but he also provided me with timely updates and sought my input on suggested changes.

-Stephen Randorf, author of the Detective Bass Mystery Series