Tommie Jean Valmassy

My first name is Tommie Jean. I edit fiction and nonfiction manuscripts. See more details about my services below. I am currently accepting new projects.I've been an avid reader since I was 14. I spent 25 years in the environmental industry editing technical reports and converting jargon into community-friendly outreach materials. Now I focus on books from non-fiction business books to fiction police procedurals, historical fiction, horror, romance, and children's books.I'm known for my creativity, encouraging approach, and love of the Oxford comma.I live on a bay in California and love coastal towns.

Line Editing

The focus of line editing is improving text at the line or paragraph level. I review the style, word choices, and storytelling. This includes clarifying plot holes, inconsistencies, and word choices.

Copy Editing

Copy editing is less detailed than line editing. A copy edit includes correcting grammar, ensuring language and story elements are consistent, and that the manuscript adheres to a given style guide.

Beta Reads

A beta read is a full read-through of a manuscript, providing feedback from the perspective of an engaged reader, but with a trained eye. I evaluate character and plot development, tone, pace. I ask questions about situations or motivations that are unclear, discuss whether the character arcs and ending are satisfying, and share what is working best.

Coaching

I became a certified coach through Coach Training Alliance in 2019. Coaching for authors starts with where you are in your process. Defining your idea, creating systems to get writing done, or focusing on rewrites or getting a manuscript finalized. This is where my encouraging approach helps you reach your goals.

Proofreading

The best tool to catch errors is a set of fresh eyes. Proofreading needs to be separate from any other review. The purpose is to catch any final typos including spelling, extra periods, strange line breaks, and any other error.