What my authors say ...

'Through all of the changes and feedback I was never once anxious. Where I struggled it wasn't because I felt awful but because you had said such lovely things that I was overwhelmed. That you made all of the changes needed with generosity and care is incredible. This is what I want to spend my life doing, and you have helped me to shed so many of my fears about doing so. It means everything. Thank you.'
Rebecca Milton, fantasy fiction writer

Supporting the independent author's right to write

Welcome! Would you like to prepare your book for publication just like authors with mainstream publishing contracts?

Your book deserves glowing reviews from admiring readers who’ve enveloped themselves in the world you’ve built and the characters who live within it.
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Perhaps, though, your writing needs smoothing to ensure it engages your reader. Or maybe industry-standard grammar, spelling and punctuation are your sticking points. I’ll work carefully through your narrative and dialogue, all the time editing with elegance, honouring your voice, and respecting the journey you’re on. Your right to write will underpin that process.

Clarity and consistency will be key but I’ll never lose sight of the fact that this is your book, your story ... First things first, though – let’s have a chat about what you want and take it from there.

​Safe hands

I've self-published four books, so I know exactly what it's like to walk in your shoes.

I have 25+ years of professional experience, including in-house roles for two international publishers. I'm also an Advanced Professional Member of the SfEP.

​Let's talk

If you’re nervous about working with a copyeditor or proofreader, why not get in touch for an initial chat about what you need? 

​Whether this is your tenth book or your first, I'm on your side and am happy to guide you.

My promise

I'll be totally honest about how I can help. If you want a service that I don't provide, I'll put you in touch with a colleague. That way, if we do work together, we'll both feel we've found a good match. That's the foundation of a great working relationship!

​Just for you

I've created a library of resources especially for self-publishers and independent authors. Simply help yourself to whatever you need.

No strings; no fees. Just stuff to make your writing life easier.

Just a few of the 550+ books in my portfolio ... some later editions, some first!

About Louise

From 1990 until 2003, I worked in London for two international publishing houses. Then a couple of things happened. Johnny (my partner) and I decided we wanted the sea in our lives. And we had a child. Eighteen months later, the three of us moved to Norfolk.

I wasn't done with books, though. I set up Louise Harnby | Proofreader in 2006. Since then, I've completed over 500 proofreading and copyediting projects for independent authors and mainstream publishers, including a Pulitzer Prize winner, A Visit from the Goon Squad, and an anniversary facsimile edition of probably the most famous Gothic horror novel ever published, Dracula.

I have the privilege of spending my working week with words. My clients come from all over the world but they have one thing in common – they want to make their books the best they can be. I help them with that mission and I reckon it's the best job in the world.

Want to talk things over?

If you'd like to discuss a proofreading or copyediting project, get in touch so we can have a chat.​