Professional Resources For Writers

I’m frequently asked to recommend editors, proofreaders, and other industry professionals. Today, I’d like to present a list of my go-to people. Unless noted otherwise, these are all folks with whom I’ve worked personally and whose services I highly recommend. Whether you’re wanting to publish traditionally or independently, chances are these talented people will be able to help you achieve your goals.

 

Cathi-Lyn Dyck: Cat offers a number of editorial packages at fabulously reasonable prices. She’s professional, reliable, savvy, and funny. When I first started hunting for a professional editor, I knew I wanted someone who would be easy to work with and who could further my own education as a writer. Cat fits that bill to a T.

 

Linda Yezak: Linda has been my critique partner since before my second novel’s publication. I’m lucky enough to get to take advantage of her services for free (and in exchange for not administering my long-range shotgun whenever she gets on my case for overusing “that”), but she edits professionally, both for Port Yonder Press and as a freelancer. She’s as tough as they come, but also a constant source of encouragement.

 

Paul Chernoch: Back in the day when we were both starting out, Paul offered to do a free e-book conversion of Behold the Dawn. He did such an amazing job on the book that I’ve never looked elsewhere for digital conversion. His skill, perfectionism, and friendliness make this potentially stressful process a joy. He offers competitive rates and a beautifully professional product. (He doesn’t currently have a website up and running, but if you’re interested in his services, email me, and I will forward your contact info to him.)

 

Dominick Finelle: Dominick, via The July Group, creates beautiful cover work, based on his own original photography. You’ll pay a pretty penny for his work, but this is high-end professionalism for one of the most important aspects of your marketing.

 

Damonza: I have not worked with this company personally, but it’s on my shortlist for future projects. In communicating with me, they have been prompt, helpful, and friendly. They offer a portfolio of superb work at extremely reasonable prices and with the promise of a fast turnaround. They’re quickly becoming an industry leader among e-book covers.

 

DogEared Design: I have yet to work with Kirk DouPonce, but I love his work. He’s a great guy, easy to converse with, and willing to negotiate with independent authors on price.

 

Circle of Seven: Book trailers are still finding their stride as both an artform and a successful marketing tool. Circle of Seven offers a number of packages, not least among them their least expensive (but most impressive, in my opinion) Cover Story. Their services include writing the script, offering an appropriate music selection (with the option of an upgrade to a larger catalog), and selecting distribution options. They are professional and easy to work with.

 

Robert Altbauer: Robert does fast, spot-on work, and was willing to make minor corrections for me even after the project was completed. His work is beautiful, and he’s flexible in creating artistic flourishes to fit the book’s theme.

 

I’ve been extremely happy with my interactions with all of these wonderful people. If you’re in the market for any of the services they provide, be sure to drop by their sites and look around.