Your aggressively supportive editor
“Putting yourself out there is scary. Writing badly is scary. Being criticized, proven a ‘failure’, or trying something new is scary. I’m scared almost every day… but you know what? Fear does not reflect ability. You are capable of more than you know, but most importantly, you are capable of doing things even when you are scared. You are tremendously brave.
— Gabrielle Goodloe, Editor
Fun facts about me that have nothing to do with books or writing
I love Korean dramas, Chinese fantasy shows, and music from all around the world.
I have been obsessed with dragons since I was a wee child (peep the dragon ring in the picture).
I would give my life for an animal without a second thought.
I’m married to an artist, mom to a disabled dog and a dorky orange cat, and a guardian over the stray animals in our little village in the mountains.
Meet Gabrielle Goodloe (she/they)
Let’s start by shaking off those nerves and celebrating the fact that you’re here! Whether you are looking for an editor for your story or searching for the right writing community for you - this is a big deal. You are a big deal.
If you don’t know me, most people call me Gabby, and I’m the wild woman who started her editing business back in 2021 in the midst of a pandemic (yes, even I can’t believe it sometimes). Before I was an editor I was a writer, and before that, I was a lost soul who had forgotten that she was a writer. It’s been a long journey to get to the point where I am now, and it came with a lot of trial and error and difficulty navigating unexpected gatekeeping, elitism, and a lot of “rules” that provided more obstacles rather than illuminating the path to publication.
My experience in the writing world is what created the rebelliously encouraging and educational approach I have crafted today that I use to help authors finish their manuscripts, feel confident in their storytelling abilities, and keep them inspired and invested in their relationship with writing and creativity. My role started as an editor and expanded as I found my skills, knowledge, and compassion could help authors who were struggling to finish their first drafts, or those who were struggling to navigate the publishing waters.
Since starting my business I have worked on historical, contemporary, fantasy, and paranormal romance books, while also expanding into memoir and other nonromance genres when it’s the right fit. I have previously been an active member in professional organizations for editors such as The FEC (Freelancer Editors Club), AWP (Association of Writers & Writing Programs), & EFA (Editorial Freelancers Association). As editors are lifelong learners, I have attended dozens of workshops on craft, mindset, and inclusive writing (some of these workshops have been hosted in The Writer’s Helm by other industry professionals). As the literary world (and language) is always evolving - I pride myself on staying informed so that I can give my authors the best editing experience I can offer.
I might be the editor for you if…
The idea of sending your manuscript to an editor terrifies you.
You are looking for encouraging and supportive feedback that makes you feel both proud of yourself and eager to get back to writing.
You want to tell the magnificent stories that you want to tell without fear of the “writing rules” and formulas, while growing as a writer and storyteller.
You would like a more casual and relaxed editing experience that leads to great results.
You value representation, inclusive language, diversity, and, responsible and conscious storytelling.
You like to have fun!
I might not be the editor for you if…
Your stories promote and glorify any of the -isms or phobias (racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, etc.). I strongly believe in utilizing authenticity/sensitivity readers and writing responsibly.
You don’t like swearing (I like to have a hell of a good time - I’m the co-captain of a group of writing pirates after all).
You expect perfection. This is a big mindset shift for some authors! Nothing will ever be perfect, please keep that in mind when working with any editor or industry professional. Writing is an art form and the magic is in the mess!
You are hoping I’ll edit your grammar and spelling mistakes. There is a reason I am not a copyeditor, it’s just not in my wheelhouse. My abilities are strictly in the storytelling department, leave the grammar and spelling for your copyeditor (let me know if you need recommendations).
Ready to edit that book?
If you’ve read this far… I know we’re going to make some magic together. I can’t wait to hear from you!