Meet the owner and editor:

Hi, I’m Betsy—the owner and editor behind Arden Editorial.

I help authors of speculative fiction spot plot holes and turn complex ideas into clear, compelling stories. I specialize in editing fantasy, science fiction, LitRPG, historical fiction, and genre-blending works.

My editing focuses on clarity, structure, and reader experience—helping authors strengthen both their prose and the ideas driving the story.

Work with me
Person lying on a teal sofa, reading a book, with pillow on left and blue pillow on right, in a dimly lit room with door and coat hooks in background.

My Story

Reading grabbed me early and has shaped every aspect of my life.

I was that kid reading under her desk during math class, the girl with a thick fantasy novel propped up in front of her at lunch, and the college student writing literature review papers in German and English (because reading in just one language wasn’t enough). When I go to the library, I bring an Aldi bag and leave with it full. When I’m not reading for fun, I’m reading to learn.

My love of reading led to a degree in English literature. After college, I earned several advanced degrees in education and spent 12 years as a teacher. I led instruction for other teachers across multiple school districts, taught students to read, and built strong, lasting connections.

My background in education shapes how I edit—I specialize in helping speculative fiction authors make complex ideas clear, structured, and engaging for readers.

I’d love to help you to bring your project to its strongest form.

My approach

I’m always excited when an author includes me in their creative process. That trust is a gift, and I don’t plan to waste it. I provide honest, actionable feedback that is clear, sensitive, and respectful of your voice.

I offer flexible communication options. I understand that phone conversations can be challenging or uncomfortable, so I offer communication via email, text messaging, or Zoom. I understand that different writers have different needs and I aim to meet you where you are.

I value collaboration, empathy, inclusivity, and open communication. I’m direct, detail-oriented, and deeply invested in language—and yes, a bit of a nerd!

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Education, Training, & Qualifications

  • Copyediting Certificate, University of California - San Diego, 2026

    Bachelor of Arts - English

    Master of Arts - Education

    My two greatest loves are reading and learning, so it is no surprise that I’ve devoted my life to both. My education experience has given me invaluable practice helping others, while my English degree laid a solid foundation for my work with words.

  • Because formal education isn’t enough, I’m always seeking out additional training and professional development. Here are some courses I’ve taken and conferences I’ve attended.

    • The Art of Feedback (Editorial Freelance Association)

    • Guiding Your Clients to Successfully Self Publish (Editorial Freelance Association)

    • Radical Copyediting: Prioritize Care over Correctness (Editorial Freelance Association)

    • Trans Allyship for Writers and Authors (Editorial Freelance Association)

    • Editing Emotionally Challenging Content (ACES: The Society for Editing)

    • Tips for Editing Genres that Include Violence, Suicide, and Mental Illness (ACES: The Society for Editing)

    • Proofreading 101 (ACES: The Society for Editing)

    • Women In Publishing Conference, 2026

  • Reading is my learning style, so I’m always keeping up with relevant editing books. Here are a few I’ve read which have helped build my knowledge base in editing and publishing.

    • The Chicago Manual of Style, 18th Edition by The University of Chicago Press Editorial Staff

    • The Copyeditor's Handbook: A Guide for Book Publishing and Corporate Communication by Amy Einsohn and Marilyn Schwartz

    • The Copyeditor's Workbook: Exercises and Tips for Honing Your Editorial Judgment by Erika Buky and Marilyn Schwartz

    • Developmental Editing, Second Edition: A Handbook for Freelancers, Authors, and Publishers by Scott Norton

    • The Chicago Guide for Freelance Editors: How to Take Care of Your Business, Your Clients, and Yourself from Start-Up to Sustainability by Erin Brenner

    • The Chicago Guide to Copyediting Fiction by Amy Schneider

  • Professional societies connect professionals with resources, tools, and professional development. If I don’t meet your needs directly, I’ll be able to refer you to another editor through my network.

    I’m a member of:

    The Editorial Freelance Association

    ACES: The Society for Editing

    Freelance Editor’s Club

FAQs

  • My heart was captured by the fantasy genre in 3rd grade (thanks, C.S. Lewis), and that is still my absolute favorite. I love speculative fiction in general. As a history nerd, I do love a good historical fiction or time travel book.

    I enjoy nonfiction as well, with special interests in psychology, education, philosophy, history, and cookbooks.

  • I’m very reading-adjacent in my other interests! I love video games, especially RPGs with powerful stories and the ability to influence the outcome of the game. Listening to audiobooks while playing cozy video games or doing chores usually takes up the rest of my free time.

    When I’m not immersed in story, I love spending time with my kids, husband, and dog. We hike, spend time outdoors, and cook for fun.

  • I know working with an editor can feel personal—you’re trusting someone with your ideas, your voice, and your work. It’s important to feel comfortable with that relationship.

    I live in Minnesota with my husband, our two hilarious daughters, a doodle puppy, and a small collection of other pets.

    I’m an elder millennial, which means I’m usually happiest communicating over email or text (and yes, I will absolutely use gifs when appropriate).

    I value kindness, inclusivity, and clear communication, and I aim to create a working relationship where you feel supported, respected, and understood.

    I’m happy to get to know you more before we sign a contract. Please reach out if you have questions!

  • I won’t edit:

    • Discriminatory material.

    • Work featuring gratuitous sexual assault or violence towards children. If your work features some small plot points along these lines, please disclose the extent ahead of booking.

    Otherwise, I’m really open. If you have specific questions about your manuscript in this area please email me at betsy@ardeneditorial.com

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