17 years plus of
expertise

You have the outstanding story. I'll help you refine it into an unforgettable read.

Claire Ashgrove

When you're looking for an editor, you need someone who believes in your project... and you. As an author myself, I understand the crucial need for an editor who encourages you and understands the vision you have. Reach out -- let's talk!

Connect With Me

Why
Novel Refinery

Experience
I have seventeen-plus years in publishing and have edited NYT / USA Today Bestselling authors in Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Romance. I've also edited and worked with Hugo nominated authors and editors, and some true legends in the industry. I'm enthusiastic about both Indie and Traditional publishing, and I love working with new authors as well as experienced. As an author, I'm an Award-winning, Bestselling author of Romance, Science Fiction, and Fantasy.
My Approach
You need an editor who wants you to succeed and who can bring your vision to life alongside you. I consider the editorial relationship a partnership, and I am thorough and won't blow smoke. However, I am gentle and believe authors should be given the tools to grow their career and writing whenever possible. As such I employ a "teaching perspective" whenever possible. I'm an author, too, so I understand the need for constructive and useful feedback.
Genres
I love both adult and young adult fantasy, urban fantasy, science fiction, and romance (all sub-genres, even erotic.) I also work with historical fiction, and contemporary fiction. I love epic worlds (including space opera), characters with true depth, and gritty conflict. I do NOT edit: non-fiction, poetry, horror, or literary fiction.
Connect With Me
  • National bestselling author and Hugo-nominated editor Bryan Thomas Schmidt (Davi Rhii, John Simon, Fox's Predator)
    Claire's insights into my novel helped me identify areas needing improvement--what was working, and what wasn't--allowing me to polish my novel and take it to the next level. Knowledgeable and easy to work with. I would recommend her to anyone.
    National bestselling author and Hugo-nominated editor Bryan Thomas Schmidt (Davi Rhii, John Simon, Fox's Predator)
  • Derek R.
    Claire was a breath of fresh air, giving me honest, unvarnished -- but very constructive -- feedback! I'm confident I'll be able to make the project better because of her work :)
    Derek R.
  • Dan M.
    She takes the effort to guide the writer through the process and produces high-quality work. A pleasure to work with and highly recommended!
    Dan M.
  • Michael B.
    In every project we've worked on together, she has consistently shown professionalism, efficiency, and patience;-) Most importantly, she is very detail-oriented, which is crucial for me.
    Michael B.
  • Saima I
    Her insights into narrative structure and character development were invaluable, enhancing my manuscript while respecting my original vision.
    Saima I
  • Steve M
    Claire was great to work with. She has a positive attitude and communication style. She also has an amazing eye for detail. Thanks, Claire!
    Steve M
  • Deborah W.
    Claire is fantastic. VERY supportive and helpful. Working with her has helped me become a much better writer.
    Deborah W.
  • Katrina C.
    Claire was wonderful to work with and made my first experience with this sort of thing a breeze. I feel like I have learned so much through working with her!
    Katrina C.
  • Mark M
    Her critique was constructive and encouraging, and she clearly has the background to address problems at both technical and developmental levels.
    Mark M
  • Adrena J
    Very detailed in her feed back. Gave examples for me to follow to improve my novel.
    Adrena J
  • Alexa C
    Claire is friendly, communicative and efficient. I also appreciated that my voice/style of writing wasn't altered in the editing process.
    Alexa C
  • Abby G
    Claire gave me a very helpful, constructive critique. I appreciate her encouragement and wisdom when it comes to writing scenes that move the story forward.
    Abby G
  • Kendall M
    Claire was great to work with. She is thorough in her approach, responsive, and professional. She exceeded my expectations!
    Kendall M
  • Deena B.
    Working with Claire was just what I needed. She manages to mix a perfect blend of encouragement and feedback in her editing.
    Deena B.
  • Chris B.
    She truly goes above and beyond the call of duty, not to mention a very thorough copy edit.
    Chris B.
  • Lamar G.
    Hire Claire immediately if you want someone who will challenge you and bring the best out of you and your story. She's amazing.
    Lamar G.
  • Sheila B.
    Claire's work is phenomenal! You will receive quality editorial services and supreme kindness! Her professionalism is excellent, and her turnaround time is surprisingly quick.
    Sheila B.
  • Angela S.
    I found her very easy to communicate with, and her project turnaround time was unreal!
    Angela S.
  • Patrick C.
    Claire, you did a great job copy editing a massive and complicated science fiction novel for me, and you did it under an insane deadline with grace and aplomb.
    Patrick C.
  • Nathan A.
    She was prompt and professional. Her speed also allowed me to move my release time table up significantly which is a huge bonus!
    Nathan A.
  • Denise B.
    She submitted a very thorough editorial letter with excellent suggestions of how I could improve my overall story, character building, themes, and even did some copy editing. She is well-versed with what the industry is looking for, and as a new author, I greatly needed this education.
    Denise B.
  • Ada A.
    Claire made me feel at ease the minute I started working with her. She is exceedingly refreshing, professional and encouraging to be around and I am so looking forward to working with her again in the future!
    Ada A.
  • Diana M.
    Not only a thorough developmental review, but a long editorial letter filled with teaching moments. Her work has already improved my writing style and should power my book to the next phase.
    Diana M.

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