Emerald Edits

Developmental editing

Who is behind Emerald Edits?

Helping you tell the story you've always wanted to write.

Hi, I'm Nicole, the developmental editor behind Emerald Edits.

For over fifteen years I've been lucky enough to work in the book world as a blogger, reviewer, and editor. During that time I've worked with publishing houses and independent authors, editing manuscripts from debut novels right through to books by bestselling authors.

The title on the cover doesn't matter to me nearly as much as the story inside it.

I know how much time, heart, and late nights go into writing a book, and I also know how nerve-wracking it can be handing that book over to someone else. That's why my approach is always honest, encouraging, and collaborative. I'll tell you what's working (because there'll be plenty that is), I'll point out the places that could be stronger, and I'll explain why I'm making every suggestion so you can feel confident tackling your next draft.

At the end of the day, I'm not here to change your voice.

I'm here to help you bring out the very best version of it.

So... what exactly is developmental editing?

Think of developmental editing as looking at the bigger picture.

Before anyone starts worrying about grammar or misplaced commas, I look at the things that make readers fall in love with a story.

Is the pacing keeping the pages turning?

Are the characters believable, memorable, and growing in the right ways?

Does the romance earn that first kiss? Is the tension building? Is the emotional payoff landing the way you want it to?

Are there scenes that could work harder? Plot threads that need tightening? Moments that deserve a little more room to breathe?

These are the questions I'll be asking as I read.

I also look at your target audience, genre expectations, marketability, and the tropes readers love. Whether you've written a small-town romance, a sweeping fantasy, or something that refuses to fit neatly into one box, my goal is always the same: helping your story become the strongest version of itself.

What it's like to work with me

I believe the best editing is a conversation.

You won't receive a manuscript covered in mysterious comments or vague suggestions. Every piece of feedback I leave is there for a reason, and I'll always explain why I'm suggesting a change. My aim isn't just to help you improve this manuscript, it's to give you tools and confidence that you'll carry into the next one too.

When your edit is complete, you'll receive:

A fully annotated manuscript with comments throughout.
A detailed editorial report covering your story's strengths, opportunities for development, and practical suggestions for revision.
Honest, constructive feedback that's tailored to your story, your goals, and your voice.

I promise to celebrate the moments that made me laugh, cry, gasp, or stay up far later than I intended because I had to know what happened next.

And yes... I'll also be the one gently pointing out the chapter that isn't quite pulling its weight.

Because that's my job.

And I genuinely love it.

A little bit about me

When I'm not editing romance, you can usually find me reading it, listening to it, or watching it. Clearly, I haven't had enough of it yet.

I've always been a book person. Long before Emerald Edits, I started Emerald Book Reviews, where I share my thoughts on the books I'm reading, wax lyrical about my latest favourites, and occasionally try to convince everyone else that they need to add another book to their ever-growing TBR.

When I'm not lost in a story, you'll usually find me curled up on the sofa with a mug of tea, watching Bridgerton and pretending it's purely for research purposes, with Fred (my adorable puppy) keeping me company.

Outside of books, I love the simple things that add a little bit of magic to everyday life. You’ll usually find me wandering through the woods collecting pine cones, strolling along the Irish coast with my toes dipping into the frigid waters, or spending time in the kitchen baking something sweet.

I’ve always loved adding a little whimsy wherever I can, whether that’s getting lost in a good story, lighting a candle on a cosy evening, or embracing my favourite time of year. I’m a spooky girl at heart, so autumn will always have a special place in my heart. Crisp mornings, cosy jumpers, golden leaves, Halloween, and the perfect excuse to curl up with a book? It’s the ultimate reading season.

Booking note: Thank you for checking out Emerald Edits. When you email for a booking, I’ll share my available dates. To secure your spot, please reply within 24 hours—after that, I can’t hold the date, and it will go to the next client on my waitlist.

~Nicole McCurdy (editor)

Cancellation Policy.

Cancellation Notice:

- If you need to cancel or reschedule your editing services with me, please provide written notice at least 7 days before the scheduled start date of the project.
Cancellations:
- Cancellations made 7 or more days before the start date will not incur any charges.
- Cancellations made less than 7 days before the start date may result in a fee of 50% of the estimated project cost, at my discretion.
Rescheduling:
- Clients wishing to reschedule their editing services must do so within the same notice period. One rescheduling is permitted without penalty; additional changes may incur fees.
Refunds:
- As no booking fees are charged, refunds are not applicable. However, any prepaid amounts for services will be honoured in future bookings.
Exceptions:
- In cases of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, I will consider waiving any potential cancellation fees at my discretion.
Acknowledgment:
- By engaging my editing services at Emerald Edits, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this cancellation policy.