Why reading makes me a better Editor

People often ask me how I became an editor. The answer is simple: I've always loved words. But just as important as writing is reading.

I read because I enjoy it, I'm curious, I want to learn, and because every book offers something different. Whether it's a beautifully crafted literary novel, a fast-paced psychological thriller, or an historical epic, I believe every book has something to teach me.

Many years ago, I set up a book group with friends. The idea was simple: to encourage us all to read more widely than we might otherwise. Left to my own devices, I know I'd probably gravitate towards the same authors and genres time and again. Instead, the group has introduced me to books I would never have chosen myself, and I'm so grateful for that.

Reading with two hats on

When I settle down with a book, I'm first and foremost a reader. I want to lose myself in the story, become invested in the characters, and be transported somewhere else for a while. But, inevitably, part of me is also an editor.

I notice how an author introduces characters, builds tension, structures chapters, balances dialogue with description, and creates a distinctive voice. I admire elegant sentences, clever plotting, and those moments when everything comes together perfectly. Sometimes I notice things that don't quite work for me, too. Perhaps a story jumps between time periods more often than I'd like, or a plot feels a little slow to develop. That's one of the fascinating things about books: every reader experiences them differently.

The more I read, the more I appreciate just how many ways there are to tell a story.

Every book teaches me something

This year alone, I've travelled across centuries, continents, cultures and countless lives through books. I've explored family relationships, grief, identity, friendship, history, espionage, love, psychological suspense and everything in between. Some books have stayed with me because of their unforgettable characters. Others because of their beautiful prose, ingenious structure or thought-provoking themes.

A few of my highlights this year include:

The Names by Florence Knapp – a remarkable debut exploring how one decision can shape an entire lifetime.

The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier – a wonderfully original novel set in Murano, where time itself seems to flow differently.

Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall – an unforgettable blend of love story and thriller.

The Last List of Mabel Beaumont by Laura Pearson – warm, uplifting and deeply moving.

The Girl Before and Believe Me by JP Delaney – two psychological thrillers that were impossible to put down.

Sandwich by Catherine Newman – funny, poignant and wonderfully observed.

Number Thirty-Two by Cassie Steward – a beautifully crafted debut full of family secrets and memorable characters.

I've also stepped well outside my comfort zone with books like The Predicament and Gabriel's Moon by William Boyd, discovering an unexpected love of espionage fiction, while novels such as The Far Field by Madhuri Vijay, The Sealwoman's Gift by Sally Magnusson, and The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden introduced me to places, histories and perspectives I'd previously known very little about.

Not every book becomes a favourite, of course, and that's perfectly fine. Even those I enjoy less often teach me something about pacing, narrative structure, character development or reader expectations.

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Why reading matters to my editing

People sometimes imagine editing is simply about correcting grammar and spelling. In reality, it's so much more.

Being a keen reader helps me understand what keeps readers turning the pages (and not!). It sharpens my instinct for pacing, clarity and consistency. It reminds me how important voice is, how powerful a well-chosen word can be, and how even small distractions (such as spelling mistakes) can pull a reader out of an otherwise wonderful story.

Every author has their own style, and every manuscript has its own personality. Reading widely helps me recognise and respect those differences while supporting authors in making their work the very best it can be.

What I'm reading next...

One of the joys of belonging to a book group is that there's always another title waiting. My reading list never seems to get any shorter, and I wouldn't have it any other way. After all, every new book is another opportunity to discover something, learn something, and become a better editor.

Next on my list are: The Choice by Edith Eva Eger and The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.

So, if you're looking for someone to edit your manuscript, know that I don't just love editing; I love reading too. And I think the two go hand in hand.

Also, I’d love to hear your recommendations. What have you read recently that you couldn't put down, that was truly thought-provoking, or that you won’t ever forget?

I hope this helps xx

If you’re an aspiring author looking to publish your book, I'm here to polish your words and create a professional, reader-friendly publication for you. I would love to support you on your publishing journey.

Contact me for an editing and typesetting estimate; let’s make your book shine!