Fiction & Creative Non-fiction Editing

I help writers strengthen novels, short stories, memoir, essays, and literary non-fiction through thoughtful editorial feedback and revision support.

I'm a writer and editor with experience working on fiction, anthologies, and literary publications. I offer developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, proofreading, and beta reading, helping writers refine things like plot, pacing, character, structure, and voice.

I’m really interested in speculative fiction, horror, queer fiction, and other unconventional narratives. I have a BA (Honours) in Creative Writing from RMIT University, specialising in novel writing. I published my first novel and recently completed a second manuscript, which is currently under submission.

I'm the head editor of a literary journal and part of a zine distro, where I edit and collaborate with a wide range of contributors.

I currently offer sample edits and introductory rates for new clients.

Email me at johnnomercy@proton.me or reach out through the contact form.

What to expect FROM…

Beta Reading

This is a detailed reader’s response rather than a formal edit. This service is for the first draft of a novel.

This is where I’ll tell you:

  • what kept me reading and made me want to know more

  • where I got confused

  • which characters resonated

  • where the pacing could be improved - this could be action scenes that drag or dramatic scenes which are rushed

  • what questions I had as a reader

This is ideal if you want honest feedback before getting a full edit.

Developmental Editing

Here’s where we start to get a bit more detailed.

I'll look at questions like:

  • Is the plot engaging, and does it hold together without any plot holes?

  • Are the characters compelling, with clear motivations and satisfying arcs?

  • Does the pacing keep readers invested?

  • Does the structure support the story you're trying to tell?

  • Are the themes coming through in a way that feels meaningful rather than forced?

This is usually most useful in the early revision stages.

Line Editing

Once we’ve polished what is being told, we’ll look at how it’s being told. Line editing focuses on:

  • Voice and tone

  • Clarity and flow

  • Sentence structure

  • Dialogue

  • Repetition and clichés

  • Scene-level pacing

The goal is to strengthen the prose while preserving your voice.

Copy Editing

This is where we zoom in. Copy editing focuses on technical accuracy and consistency, looking at things:

  • Grammar and punctuation

  • Spelling and typos

  • Consistency of names, places, and timelines

  • Formatting issues

  • Clarity and readability

proofreading

This is where we look for the small things that have survived every previous draft and revision.

…Still not sure which service is right for your project? Feel free to get in touch with a short description of your project and I'll recommend the most suitable option.