About Novel Refinery

Novel Refinery is the premiere editing platform that welcomes all levels of authors. Whether you're a first-timer or established, a professional eye can make the difference between an enjoyable read and an unforgettable page-turner. Please take a few minutes and learn about my background, my philosophies, and what makes me different from other qualified editors. If you still have questions or want to discuss your work, please reach out!
Adult & Young Adult Fiction
  • Fantasy
  • Science Fiction
  • Romance
  • Historical Fiction
  • Cozy Mystery
  • Contemporary Fiction (Not Literary Fiction)

Background

I've worked as a professional editor for over sixteen years and have many more years under my belt as an Award-Winning, National Bestselling, and Bestselling author.  As a young author, intent on publishing romance, I studied craft with some of the best in the business.  Julie Garwood taught me the nuance of a scene, Carla Cassidy taught me perseverance, Shannon Butcher taught me layered subplots and world building, and the list goes on and on. 

As my publishing credits developed, I began presenting workshops and attending conventions and writing organizations, where I've led craft lessons on various topics, held workshops, judged contests, and networked with many authors I am proud to have had the honor of knowing and learning from -- publishing always has a lesson to learn somewhere from someone.

My love for finding a new story and assisting authors stemmed from a desire to give back to my community.  I also branched out of romance into science fiction and fantasy. I have worked with The Wild Rose Press, Wordfire Press, ProSe Press, Entangled Publishing, and as a freelance editor since.

I've helped build award-winning, NYT/US Today/National Bestselling careers,  have worked with outstanding authors such as Frank Herbert, Nana Malone, Saranna DeWylde, Hugo-nominated Bryan Thomas Schmidt, and I've had the pleasure of spending time with a multitude of agents and editors, learning what they look for in both a good story and what drives them to extend offers to authors.

My journey in publishing has been full of rewards as well as laden with unforgettable experiences.  I've learned so much, and I am still possessed by the desire to share that knowledge.

Editing With Me

It doesn't matter if it's your first novel, or your twentieth-plus, I love a good story that I can momentarily live within. While I will work with most fiction genres, I especially love epic fantasy, sci-fi, romantasy, and powerful contemporary romance that deals with tough subjects.

I am experienced and qualified for fantasy, science fiction, and all genres of romance, either single-title or category.

*I DO NOT EDIT* horror or poetry, and I will only copy edit non-fiction.
I am an avid fan of Indie publishing, but I believe all self-published novels should have the opportunity to stand beside, and be compared to, the quality of traditional publishing, if not exceed that quality. I strive to help you create a competitive novel that readers will rave about. To this end, I believe in providing quality, constructive feedback with an angle toward teaching, when necessary. I am honest and won't blow smoke, but I'm also kind and considerate. There's no reason to tear an author down, and editors who do so are unprofessional. I further believe that editing is a partnership, where both persons can discuss feedback and reach solutions that work for the reader and the author's vision.
I don't just work through a manuscript, return feedback, and expect you to figure it out -- this is not a "one and done" agreement. I remain available to you through the entire phase of editing and enjoy bouncing ideas around, offering insight, and even cheerleading when you hit trouble spots.

My wait times are short; I have always been a rather speedy reader and my quality remains extremely high.

I'm also well versed in the struggles of both traditional and indie publishing, and as an author myself, I understand attachment to the stories we create more than editors who have only sat on the editing side of the table.

Your work is not just income for me. I am truly invested in your ongoing success.
  • 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.

Let's work together to make your book a success!

I'm sure you have additional questions, and I'd love to discuss your novel with you.  Please take a look at the editing services I offer and what each includes, then let's connect!

SERVICES