I’ve been very fortunate to have worked for more than twenty years in the publishing industry, acquiring and editing books in a broad range of nonfiction categories, including nature, adventure, memoir, current events, popular reference, history, humor, home and garden, as well as historical and upmarket fiction. I started Holly Rubino Editorial to focus on working more directly with authors. As a content editor, I am knowledgeable and thorough and thrive on helping authors clearly and eloquently convey their ideas, expertise, and voice. My background in education has given me skills and sensitivity as a writing guide and coach.

I graduated from New York University with a B.A. and MA in English Literature, was an English teacher for several years, and have worked at Simon & Schuster and the Lyons Press. I live on the Connecticut shoreline with my husband.

I provide a broad spectrum of editing services to prospective authors, publishers, literary agents, and other publishing professionals in both fiction and nonfiction. Whether you’re in the beginning stages of writing or the final draft of a manuscript, I can offer collaborative feedback and guidance. Please reach out to me via the contact page to schedule a free initial consultation so we can discuss your editorial needs in more detail!

Services Include:

Developmental editing
Line editing
Book doctoring/writing
Proposal editing

Testimonials:

“Holly Rubino’s approach to editing was not only right for my style and voice, but it was educational and even enlightening. She corrected, adjusted, and eliminated without inserting herself. The order of the elements in my writing seemed just right to me until Holly suggested reordering certain crucial passages that brought my points to light even more powerfully, again, without changing my voice or personality. I look forward to working with Holly again anytime the opportunity may arise.” —Louis Henry Mitchell, creative director of character design at Sesame Workshop and author of Qreative Evolution (Blackstone)

“The developmental edit of my novel by Holly Rubino was a delight. I found her to be a meticulous professional who was always respectful of the author’s vision without shying away from asking hard questions and listening to the answers. I would gladly work with her again on a future project.” –Charles B. Fancher, author of Red Clay (Blackstone)

“Holly was so amazing to work with, I had to create a new adjective for her: fantabulous. She was both fantastic and fabulous. Her keen insight, sage wisdom, and vast knowledge improved my manuscript more than I believed was possible! She was honest, fun, encouraging, and patient. Working with her was one of the highlights of my writing career, and I highly recommend her to anyone wanting to improve any aspect of their writing.” —Zoro, world-renowned drummer for Lenny Kravitz, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Bobby Brown and many others and author of Maria’s Scarf (Blackstone)

“Holly is a gifted editor with a strong knowledge of history and a sensitivity to language. She is a delight to work with, and responsive to the needs of individual authors. Her background as an editor at a publishing house, coupled with the broader knowledge of the industry through her freelance editing experience, is invaluable.” –Joelle Delbourgo, president, Joelle Delbourgo Associates Literary Agency

“Holly's attention to detail, both historical and plot-related, coupled with her respect for my vision as an author made her an ideal editor. Her gentle and wise approach fostered a pleasant and productive relationship that polished my work to a publication-ready shine.” –Lindsay Bandy, author of Nemesis and the Swan (Blackstone)

“Holly was professional, thorough, and constructive. I wholeheartedly recommend her as an editor for non-fiction projects that are pitched at a general readership. ” —Doug Boin, author of Gatecrashers (W. W. Norton)

“Holly is a seasoned, exceptionally talented editor. During our time together at Globe Pequot, Holly acquired and developed a list of best-selling books across a number of diverse categories. She has a keen eye for writing talent and is beloved by her authors. Her books always display a creative flair. And she is a terrific, collaborative partner!” —Jim Childs, former publisher of Rowman & Littlefield trade division

“Holly Rubino edited my memoir, Exit Wounds. During the entire process, as she addressed content, form, style, and grammar, she exhibited deep knowledge of her craft. She was meticulous and timely in her work. She was also a creative, keen observer, kind, and supportive. Holly made Exit Wounds a better book. —Lanny Hunter, author of Exit Wounds

“Holly supported me on many levels. She guided me through the whole process, helped me to make so-so stories into riveting scenes, and she gave my confidence a tremendous boost. Her edits were spot on, while her method of delivery was gentle and respectful.” —Cynthia Hurn, author, freelance writer and editor

“Holly is a professional’s professional. I highly recommend Holly not only as an editor, but for overall guidance on the publishing industry including but not limited to editing of books and proposals, as well as what agents and editors look for and expect from a prospective client/author. She is attentive, thorough, and professional. I not only recommend her to writers and publishers, but I, myself, look forward to the next project we can work on together.” –Carla Knorowski, chief executive officer, president, chief development officer, leader, philanthropist, author, entrepreneur, PhD in public policy

“Holly is great. She edited my A North Country Life with a care and sensitivity too sadly lacking among editors in our time. I have nothing but good to say of her.” —Sydney Lea, author of A North Country Life and former poet laureate of Vermont

“I found Holly’s comments on my book to be thoughtful, measured, and most importantly, unafraid. I think Holly is a great editor and I would not hesitate to recommend her.” —Colleen Mondor, author of The Map of My Dead Pilots

“What I’d like a book editor to be is someone who is patient, but pushy, and brutally honest, but in the nicest way. The editor needs to be close to the work, but distant enough to ensure that it maintains its focus and its tone throughout. The best editors can figure out how to simultaneously follow the author’s vision and lead the author to it. Holly Rubino is all of those things, and my experience working with her was wonderful and stress-free.” —Bob Halloran, author of Impact Statement

Rates:

My rates, which are competitive and negotiable, depend upon the type of editing services you require. Please contact me for more information.

Services Include:

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Testimonials:

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