Hire the Best Book Editors in California

Clients rate our Book Editors
Rating is 4.9 out of 5.
4.9/5
Based on 117 client reviews
Dante F.

Palm Desert, California

$20/hr
5.0
15 jobs

Hello, I’m Dante! I'm an English major with an Associate of Arts degree in English. I aim to become an English teacher in all due time. For my work, I have written countless essays, read numerous non-fiction and fiction stories, and consulted with other distinguished peers on how to better their craft. I take pride in honing my skills as a writer and editor. Now I tend to gravitate to fictional stories but am also adept at taking on non-fiction as well. Moreover, I offer a wide range of edits, which include structural, developmental, copyedit, and proofreading. If we connect, we can discuss the process over Zoom and email. HERE'S A CLOSER LOOK AT WHAT I OFFER: Structural & Developmental Edits • How does the overall narrative flow together? • What are the character motivations? The development of each paragraph and narrative flow? Is it too short or inadequate? A meandering ramble leading to nowhere but in circles? *These structural questions help determine a narrative flow and sense of cohesion that help keep readers engaged. So, the pacing of the narrative, plot, and overall flow is the focus of my structural edits. The edits here are generally big-picture and full of critical analysis while offering revisions on the content you’ll provide. Line or Copyedit • Is the grammar messy? Any repetition? • Spelling mistakes? Accurate punctuation? • Do the nouns, verbs, and adjectives conflict in your sentence? *The copyedit focuses mostly on accuracy and the mechanics of writing. I’ll make a strenuous effort to ensure your writing is smooth and comprehensive for the reader. Proofreading • In a proofread, I evaluate for any mistakes, errors, or inconsistencies before you decide to publish. I do edits over Microsoft Word, so you’ll view the many revisions and comments I offer. Communication is crucial to me, so I look forward to collaborating with you!

  • Book Editing
  • Copy Editing
  • Creative Writing
  • Developmental Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Communications
  • Microsoft Word
  • Structural Analysis
  • Zoom Video Conferencing
  • Editing & Proofreading
Jessica G.

Los Altos, California

$25/hr
5.0
19 jobs

Hi, I’m Jess — a book editor and yoga instructor with a background in copywriting, storytelling, and content strategy living in Thailand. I work with authors to refine their manuscripts so their ideas come through clearly, powerfully, and authentically. I am proficient in American-English AND British-English. **I do not use AI in my edits! I read every word and edit from a readability and flow position. I’m especially drawn to writing that explores psychology, philosophy, spirituality, and personal transformation — work that invites reflection, challenges perspective, and engages with themes like consciousness, behavior, and self-inquiry. My approach to editing is both structural and intuitive: I help strengthen clarity, flow, and narrative impact while preserving the author’s unique voice and intention. With experience across editing, writing, and narrative development, I bring both big-picture insight and careful line editing to every project. Whether shaping the overall direction of a manuscript or refining sentence-level clarity, my goal is to support authors in creating work that feels grounded, engaging, and meaningful. Alongside editing, I work as a virtual yoga instructor and mentor. I guide both students and fellow teachers through mindful movement, and offer mentorship in sequencing, cueing, and teaching development to help create more intentional and confident classes. I’m certified in Trauma-Informed Yoga as well as Yin, Vinyasa, Hatha, Power, Sculpt, and Bikram-style yoga. Services: • Book & Manuscript Editing (Developmental + Line Editing) • Copy Editing & Writing Support • Virtual Yoga Classes & Workshops • Mentorship for Yoga Teachers (sequencing, cueing, teaching guidance) If you're an author working in personal growth, spirituality, or thought-provoking non-fiction and are looking for an editor who understands both structure and depth, I’d love to collaborate. My work is rooted in helping others communicate clearly, connect deeply, and express their ideas with honesty and impact. ** I have lived a nomadic lifestyle for over 2 years. This style of life has and continues to provide me a wide perspective of life and of those who walk it. My hours may vary, but my commitment to projects stays consistent. Note that I am based in Southeast Asia.

  • Proofreading
  • Yoga
  • Health & Wellness
  • Content Writing
  • Marketing
  • Outbound Sales
  • Voice Recording
  • Meditation
  • Health & Fitness
  • Coaching
  • Storytelling
  • Social Media Account Integration
Michael Scott W.

Placerville, California

$25/hr
5.0
246 jobs

Reading and writing is my passion. I'm fascinated with wordsmithing! I've had over twenty years experience writing lessons, curriculum, powerpoint presentations, staffing related documents, forms, and much more. With extensive experience in editing, proofreading, and coaching writers to improve their craft, I've recently been honored to receive the Top Rated badge on the Upwork platform, putting me in the top 10% of freelancers on this site! I work with multiple publishers across several reading genres editing and proofreading their many projects across several authors and book projects, and enjoy a productively great relationship with each and every one. With a Bachelor's Degree in English from UC Berkeley and a Master's Degree in Leadership and Global Issues (socio-economics/cultural), I am well trained and experienced to handle the context, editing, and proofreading in many genres. Choose me to help you along in your project, and you'll get someone highly skilled in wordsmithing who also has a passion to help my clients succeed and thrive in their projects!

  • Proofreading
  • Editing & Proofreading
  • Academic Proofreading
Kingsley N.

San Jose, California

$50/hr
4.8
189 jobs

Ghostwriter & Book Editor | Developmental, Line, Copy & Proofreading | AI Manuscript Humanization | KDP Formatting Most people can write a book. Far fewer can create one that readers finish, recommend, and remember. That's where I come in. I'm Kingsley, a professional ghostwriter, book editor, and publishing partner who helps authors, entrepreneurs, coaches, and thought leaders transform ideas into compelling, publication-ready books. I've worked with clients at every stage, from rough concepts and outlines to completed manuscripts needing expert refinement. My focus goes beyond writing or editing. I help shape books that capture your voice, communicate your message, and meet professional publishing standards. Services Ghostwriting You have the expertise, story, or vision. I'll transform it into a manuscript written in your voice. I ghostwrite: ✅ Fiction Novels ✅ Romance ✅ Cozy Mysteries ✅ Children's Books ✅ Science Fiction & Fantasy ✅ Christian & Inspirational Fiction ✅ Memoirs & Biographies ✅ Self-Help ✅ Leadership & Business Books ✅ Personal Development ✅ Parenting ✅ Mental Health ✅ Spirituality & Devotionals Developmental Editing The big-picture edit. I evaluate: • Structure • Plot development • Character arcs • Pacing • Story logic • Reader engagement • Chapter organization • Market positioning You'll receive actionable recommendations to strengthen the manuscript before line-level edits begin. Line Editing Strong writing happens sentence by sentence. I refine: • Flow • Clarity • Dialogue • Tone • Transitions • Readability Your voice stays yours. Copy Editing A meticulous review for: • Grammar • Punctuation • Consistency • Timeline accuracy • Word usage • Style guide compliance (CMOS, APA, MLA, and publisher-specific standards) Proofreading The final quality-control pass before publication. Book Formatting Professional formatting for: • Amazon KDP • Kindle eBooks • Paperback editions • Print-ready files Why Clients Hire Me The goal is always the same: create a book readers trust. Clients consistently describe my work as: • Professional • Insightful • Responsive • Collaborative • Detail-oriented "Kingsley captures the essence of your thoughts as if reading from your personal diary." "Blown away by Kingsley's work. He delivered a polished, insightful piece that read like it belonged in a best-selling book." What You'll Receive ✅ Clean, professional manuscript files ✅ Track Changes editing (when applicable) ✅ Detailed editorial feedback ✅ Strict confidentiality ✅ On-time delivery ✅ Post-project support for questions and revisions Let's Talk Send me a message with your genre, estimated word count, and project goals. I'll map out the best path forward.

  • Book Editing
  • Copy Editing
  • Developmental Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Ghostwriting
  • Line Editing
  • Book Writing
  • Ebook Writing
  • Kindle Direct Publishing
  • Ebook Formatting
  • Fiction Writing
  • Romance Writing
  • Memoir Writing
  • Children's Writing
  • Self-Help
  • AI Content Editing
  • Beta Reading
  • Novel Writing
  • Track Changes
  • Layout Design
Nathan H.

Malibu, California

$175/hr
5.0
217 jobs

💡 Ready to elevate your nonfiction book to excellence by working with an expert and trusted editor? Look no further! My name is Nathan Hassall. Friends call me a wordsmith. Foes call me a poet. Most know me as an expert book editor, Malibu Poet Laureate Emeritus, and Founder/CEO of The Poetry Vessel. In short, everyone agrees: I'm good with words. Whether you're looking for a nonfiction business book editor, self-help book editor, or a meticulous set of eyes for your memoir, I'm here to make your words sing through edits, comments, and expert guidance in all things language. Working with me will ensure your book: - Has received high-level edits for structure, flow, and readability - Uses expert rhetorical techniques for entertainment, clarity, and persuasiveness - Doesn't sound like AI wrote it (whether you used it or not) - Is more attractive to publishers, agents, and readers - Has increased likelihood of sales - Builds your personal and professional brand - Makes you look good at a dinner party in front of your friends Interested? Invite me to an interview to discuss how I can best use my skills to transform your book into page after page of gold.

  • Book Editing
  • Copy Editing
  • Developmental Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Nonfiction
  • Content Creation
  • Ghostwriting
  • Content Editing
  • Memoir Writing
  • Poetry
  • Content Writing
  • Copywriting
  • Editing & Proofreading
Nicole M.

Irvine, California

$20/hr
5.0
74 jobs

Hello! I am excited to turn your novel, short story, or other text into a work of art. As a published editor and author, I have experience in working with clients to ensure that their work is error-free and enticing to readers. I specialize in fiction novels/stories, with SFF preferred, but not required. I can proofread, edit, and/or beta read your work for quality control and readability. PUBLISHED WORKS: -Beneath the Twin Suns: An Anthology (author) -Star Crossed: An Anthology of Romantic Science Fiction (author) -Heads and Tales: The Other Side of the Story (author) -The New Normal: A Zombie Anthology (author, editor, and publisher) -In All Our Forms: A Shifter Anthology (author, editor, and publisher) -Creator of The Book Dragon book review blog

  • Book Editing
  • Copy Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Line Editing
  • English
  • Google Docs
  • Organizer
  • Beta Reading
  • Beta Reader Report
  • Editing & Proofreading
  • Novel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Error Detection
  • Book Review
  • Proofreading Feedback

How it works

Post a job for free Post a job

Tell us what you need. Create your own job post or generate one with AI then filter talent matches.

Hire top talent fast

Consult, interview, and hire quickly, so you can meet the freelancers you're excited about.

Collaborate easily

Use Upwork to chat or video call, share files, and track project progress right from the app.

Payment simplified

Manage payments in one place with flexible billing options. Only pay for approved work, hourly or by milestone.

Don't just take our word for it

How do I hire a Book Editor in California on Upwork?

You can hire a Book Editor in California on Upwork in four simple steps:

  • Create a job post tailored to your Book Editor project scope. We'll walk you through the process step by step.
  • Browse top Book Editor talent on Upwork and invite them to your project.
  • Once the proposals start flowing in, create a shortlist of top Book Editor profiles and interview.
  • Hire the right Book Editor for your project from Upwork, the world's largest work marketplace.

At Upwork, we believe talent staffing should be easy.

How much does it cost to hire a Book Editor?

Rates charged by Book Editors on Upwork can vary with a number of factors including experience, location, and market conditions. See hourly rates for in-demand skills on Upwork.

Why hire a Book Editor in California on Upwork?

As the world's work marketplace, we connect highly-skilled freelance Book Editors and businesses and help them build trusted, long-term relationships so they can achieve more together. Let us help you build the dream Book Editor team you need to succeed.

Can I hire a Book Editor in California within 24 hours on Upwork?

Depending on availability and the quality of your job post, it's entirely possible to sign up for Upwork and receive Book Editor proposals within 24 hours of posting a job description.