Testimonials | Self-Editing Academy

Don't take our word for it

See what fellow writers have to say about becoming part of the Self-Editing Academy, using the Self-Editing Checklist & Roadmap and working with Elzevera.

These reviews are a testament to the power of self-editing and a nurturing community to fuel your progress. Let their experience be an inspiration to you to kickstart your own writing (r)evolution 🙌

Krysann Joye

I came to The Self-Editing Academy somewhat nervous and entirely lost regarding next steps with my first ever first draft in hand. I found that Elzevera has laid out a warmly lit path.

Her passion and skill are obvious as she guides you through not only the logistical steps involved in editing your novel, but the emotional hurdles as well.

She "gets it" and imbues courage with her gentle, but authoritative prompts and questions—both inside the modules and outside them as a self-editing coach. Having some guidance allows me to not only trust the process, but to enjoy it as well.

I'm so grateful for The Self-Editing Academy and I am confident that I'll have the best I am able to offer by the end of it.

Historical Fiction Writer

Jamie Burch

The Self-Editing Roadmap is a must have to take with you on your writing journey. It's been years since I last edited a novel and so much has changed for us writers.

With this guide I feel empowered and no longer overwhelmed by the thought of rolling up my sleeves to do the work of self-editing. The next steps are all mapped out for me and there's no second guessing or wasting time.

Thank you for this helpful guide!

Magical Realism Writer

Martha Bechtel

Now I’m much less worried about duplication and look forward to every email as a chance to learn something new. Her developmental editing feedback has been an immense help in making sure the tone and intent of my pieces are coming across correctly.

I’ve had quite a few a-ha! moments when she’s nailed the nebulous bit of something that was wrong with a story. I knew it was there, I just couldn’t figure out what it was. Now that I can see it, I can fix it—and it’s the best feeling in the world!

I have used beta readers and review-for-review services like Scribophile and OWW (Online Writing Workshop for Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror), but nothing has come close to helping me hone my stories as much as her feedback.

Elzevera’s been incredible friendly, helpful, and effective and I am so glad I found her! I am planning to continue using her services (and learning from her posts and videos) and would recommend her to anyone looking for developmental editing. Who knows, someday I might manage to send her something novel-sized! ;)

Science-Fiction & Fantasy Writer

Helena Brady

She went above and beyond to help me improve my work, and to show me the strengths in my work and the places where I need to improve, and she showed me how to strengthen those areas. I have taken everything she has said on board and I will be referring back to it when I self-edit my writing in the future.

Elzevera is such a nice person and very friendly and approachable, and a top-class editor!! I was very impressed by her, and I would definitely work with her again! I would highly recommend her to any writer seeking a good editor, or any writer who struggles with editing.

She has shown me that editing can be enjoyable, and I really appreciate that. I look at editing with a more positive mindset now.

She has helped me in more ways than just improving my writing, she has also helped me build confidence around editing my own work. Cannot recommend enough!!!

Fantasy Writer

Grace Ferguson

Prior to working with Elzevera, I knew my flash fiction piece needed professional evaluation but struggled to find an editor who understands the nuances of flash fiction writing.

Elzevera is easily the most attentive, knowledgeable, and helpful fiction editor I've worked with to date. I'm extremely impressed by the thoroughness of her work. Now, I'm much clearer on what needs to be done to develop my story.

Most significantly, I've learned: how to build the setting, characters, and plot through crucial details; the intricacies of showing versus telling; and the value of patience when self-editing.

Along with that, Elzevera is just a wonderful person to work with. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to improve their fiction writing abilities or seeking feedback on a particular story.

Fiction Writer

Nicole Annbury

I believe [the Self-Editing Academy] will provide me the necessary tools to individually and critically look at my work through an editing lens. I've learned that writing and editing are two different modes and taking a break after my draft allows me to switch into an editing frame of mind.

Thriller Writer

Kirsten McNeill

I always struggle asking for feedback, but Elzevera made it easy to talk about my project. She helped me understand the potential of my work and how I can expand it to be something so worthy to have my name on. Anyone who wants to work with her should know she is reliable, honest, kind, and has amazing writing and editing skills!

Fiction Writer

Jorie B.

I feel very confident to have the perfect starting point for when I'm ready to self edit. This list really helps me see the potential sticking points and how to navigate them in a logical way.

Even as I draft now, I have the mindset of leaving notes for developmental fixing OR rewrite, so this helps prioritize the notes and untangle some future mess! Thank you!

Fiction Writer

Miriam A. Maddock

I am an avid follower of Elzevera on Instagram, as I find her advice informative. Also, she had certain way of engaging with listeners when posting her videos.

You're drawn in by her friendliness, and there's nothing false about her. You can tell she wants to help those who genuinely want to be helped.

Fantasy Writer