Book Editors

8 UK-Based Book Editors To Elevate Your Manuscript

In the literary world, authors often bask in the limelight when a book becomes a smashing success, with readers hanging onto every word and waiting with bated breath for the next release. But behind every great author is an amazing book editor. 

The United Kingdom, with its rich literary history, is home to some of the finest editors in the business. In this listicle, we’ll shine a spotlight on the top book editors in the UK, who ensure that what we read is nothing short of brilliant. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

1. Andrew Lockett

Andrew Lockett is a London-based editor with a wealth of experience in both nonfiction and fiction. He has a comprehensive understanding of the publishing process, having worked in various roles from publicity to senior management, across trade, academic, and hybrid audiences. Andrew’s versatility is evident in his work with a range of publishing operations, from commercial ventures to university presses. He has been commissioning titles since 1986 for renowned publishers like Duckworth Publishers, Oxford University Press, and Routledge. Notably, his lists have featured esteemed authors such as Margaret Atwood and Jonathan Bate. As an editor, Andrew has contributed to trade and academic titles spanning various genres, and he prides himself on his ability to collaborate with authors to produce content that captivates readers and industry professionals alike.

2. Lusana Taylor-Khan

Lusana Taylor-Khan is a versatile and seasoned editor based in Camberley, UK. With over 11 years of experience in mass-market fiction, she has a particular expertise in romance, women’s fiction, and crime. Lusana has served as an in-house editor for Choc Lit, a renowned British romance fiction publisher, and has been a freelance editor for eight years, collaborating with major publishing houses and individual authors across diverse genres. Her editorial prowess spans from developmental editing to copy editing and proofreading. Lusana has worked on nearly 100 fiction titles and over 60 academic titles, with some of the fiction books she edited receiving nominations and winning UK awards. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her meticulous attention to detail, honed from years of editing academic texts. Lusana’s primary goal is to work in tandem with authors to elevate their work to its highest potential, emphasizing open communication throughout the editorial process.

3. Carol Trow

Carol Trow, based in Ryde, Isle of Wight, is an editor who brings a holistic approach to her craft, ensuring every aspect of a book, from its content to its blurb, shines. With a decade of experience and approximately 500 books under her belt, Carol’s expertise spans both fiction and non-fiction. She has a keen eye for detail, whether it’s spotting plot inconsistencies in fiction or ensuring accuracy in non-fiction. Carol’s work with Severn House and Blkdog Publishing, among others, showcases her versatility. She is particularly adept at reinvigorating authors’ passion for their work, especially if they’ve become disenchanted or faced challenges with previous editors. Carol’s commitment to her projects is unwavering, and she’s known for her meticulous, “hawk-eyed” approach, ensuring every book she touches reaches its fullest potential.

4. Charlotte Colwill

Charlotte Colwill, based in London, is a former bookseller who transitioned into an editor and literary agent, with a special focus on children’s and commercial fiction. Her journey in the literary world has seen her work with esteemed agencies like Tibor Jones, where she collaborated with Wilbur Smith’s co-writers, and Jo Unwin Literary Agency, engaging with talents such as Eliza Clark and Jack Meggitt-Phillips. Charlotte also managed a UK children’s fiction packaging studio, producing notable series like “Agatha Oddly” for HarperCollins. As an editor, Charlotte is both story-driven and detail-oriented, striving to bring out the best in authors through a collaborative approach. Her passion for writing and deep respect for authors make her a sought-after professional in the literary realm.

5. Sarah Khan

Sarah Khan, hailing from Cheltenham, UK, is a British Asian editor and author with a distinguished background, having been educated at Cambridge. With over two decades in the publishing industry, Sarah has carved a niche for herself, especially in children’s books, both fiction and non-fiction, as well as cookery books and personal essays. Her vast experience includes working on diverse projects, from assisting aspiring cookery writers to collaborating with a waste collection company on a children’s book. Sarah’s strength lies in her ability to untangle complex ideas and aspirations, transforming them into polished, market-ready products. Her editorial approach is both comprehensive and collaborative, ensuring that the final product resonates with its target audience.

6. Robin Thompson

Robin Thompson, based in London, is a seasoned editor, proofreader, and writer with an impressive 20-year tenure in the publishing industry. His journey has taken him from the gritty streets of south London, where he edited tales of gangsters and criminals, to the educational realm in Mexico, collaborating with some of the most prestigious editorial companies. Robin’s portfolio boasts assignments with renowned clients such as OUP, CUP, Pearson Education, Virgin Books, and Walker Books, to name a few. His passion for literature is evident in his work, and he understands the significance of the author-editor relationship, promising honesty, professionalism, and encouragement. Whether it’s biographies, fiction, music, or education, Robin’s expertise ensures that every project he undertakes is polished to perfection.

7. Holly McCulloch

Holly McCulloch, based in Oxford, is a dedicated editor with over a decade of experience, specialising in women’s fiction, fantasy, and romance. Holly’s passion for storytelling is evident in her commitment to helping authors bring their visions to life. Her background includes roles in trade publishing, notably with Conville & Walsh Literary Agency and Headline Publishing Group. Additionally, Holly has a unique perspective on the retail side of the industry, having worked as a book buyer for WHSmith bookshops within prestigious locations like Harrods and Selfridges. Beyond her editorial expertise, Holly is also an author herself, with her debut novel set to launch in February 2021. Her multifaceted experience in the publishing world positions her as an invaluable asset to authors seeking to refine and elevate their work.

8. Louise Buckley

Louise Buckley, located in London, is an esteemed Editorial Consultant with a rich background as a Literary Agent. Her extensive editorial journey includes collaborations with both major trade publishers and individual authors. Louise’s expertise is not just limited to one genre; she has worked across a spectrum, from literary to commercial fiction, encompassing genres like fantasy, historical fiction, and women’s fiction. As an agent, she has represented both critical and commercial bestsellers. Louise understands the intricacies of the writing process and the vulnerability of seeking feedback. She offers invaluable, constructive feedback, aiming to transform good books into excellent ones. With her vast experience and dedication, Louise is a beacon for authors aiming to refine their manuscripts to the highest standards.

To conclude, as we turn the pages of our favorite novels, let’s remember to tip our hats to these top book editors in the UK, who shape narratives into masterpieces, one edit at a time.