Charlie Rivers

I'm a UK-based manuscript editor specialising in developmental, line, and copyediting. I work with writers to strengthen their stories—from big-picture to fine-line detail. If you're looking to take your manuscript to the next level, then I'm here to help.

I especially enjoy working in fantasy, science fiction, romance, literary fiction, and horror.

Some of my favourite authors are Dan Simmons, Robin Hobb, Ted Chiang, and N.K. Jemisin.

Services

Line and Copyediting

This is for writers who want their manuscript polished for clarity, flow, grammar, and consistency. I'll refine your sentences, improve readability, and make sure your work is error-free without losing your voice.

from £10 per 1,000 words

Developmental Editing

This is for writers looking for big-picture feedback. Developmental editing focuses on structure, pacing, character arcs, themes, worldbuilding, and overall flow. I'll highlight what works well and what needs revising—together, we will create a story ready for publishing. You'll receive a carefully edited manuscript full of comments and suggestions, as well as an editorial letter that explains my recommended revisions in detail.

from £12 per 1,000 words

Final quotes depend on manuscript length and complexity. Get in touch for a free sample edit and custom quote.

For projects over 10,000 words, I offer a free 1,000 word sample edit. For shorter projects, this will be a 500 word sample edit.

A reduced price can be offered if both editing services are requested.

Testimonials

Jessica G.—short story author

Charlie edited the second draft of my short story, Olive Branch. From the beginning, Charlie was responsive and pleasant. The edit only took one week: fast for such an in-depth critique.

When he was done, I received a multi-page editorial letter. It was like getting feedback from the ideal beta reader. The comments were thorough and thoughtful, with a clear understanding of my intent as an author. There was an excellent mixture of positive comments and constructive criticisms. The letter left me energized and ready to edit my story.

I also received a line-by-line edit of the story. This made it smooth and easy to reconsider my word choices. It also helped me decide which passages to cut, freeing up valuable space for other changes.

All in all, I'm very happy. Charlie's recommendations gave me clarity. My story is already stronger, and it will only get stronger as I incorporate his suggestions. I've already recommended him to friends, and I plan to hire him for future projects of my own.

Mark Pearce—fiction author

Charlie read and interpreted my extract in a matter of days. He displayed an insight into it and came up with many suggestions to improve it, and make it more likely to attract readership. I would happily recommend him to prospective writers. Use Charlie - you won’t be disappointed. I’m delighted that he agreed to review my work.

Get in Touch

If you'd like to work together, email me at charlie.rivers12@outlook.com. In your message, please include:

The type of editing you're looking for (developmental or line/copyediting)
The sample of your manuscript (as a Word document)
A brief synopsis of your manuscript
Total manuscript word count
Your preferred timeframe for edits

Once I’ve reviewed this, I’ll provide an estimated quote. If you’re happy to proceed, I’ll edit your free sample and return it along with a final confirmed quote.