Specializing in fantasy, sci-fi, and literary fiction — I help authors close the gap between their vision and the manuscript that earns agent attention.
World-building, magic systems, pacing across long arcs, balancing exposition with momentum — these are the craft challenges I live for. Whether it's epic fantasy, grimdark, space opera, or literary sci-fi, I know the genre conventions readers expect and where you can break them.
Voice-driven, character-deep, language-precise. Literary fiction demands an editor who won't sand off the edges that make it distinctive. I help you sharpen what's already there — structural clarity, emotional resonance, prose rhythm — without erasing what makes your work yours.
A detailed editorial letter covering the reader experience: what's working, what isn't, and where your story loses momentum. Includes optional Zoom debrief.
Full manuscript pass for typos, grammar, syntax, and diction. Delivered via Track Changes in Word so you stay in control of every decision.
The full picture — copy edits, in-line comments, and a comprehensive editorial letter examining structure, character, pacing, theme, and voice. Includes optional Zoom call.
Two full developmental passes — before and after your revisions — plus a final letter assessing the effectiveness of your changes. Like working with a Big Five editor.
Step-by-step guidance on crafting a query letter that sells your manuscript to agents. Includes up to six drafts of the same letter.
For writers short on revision time. After a full developmental edit and discussion, I make the agreed changes for you — preserving your voice throughout.
"The most talented young editor I've come across in my career, hands down." — Kate Angelella, Angelella Editorial
Hello — I'm Tom. I've been passionate about storytelling since I was a kid, and in 2021 I turned that passion into a profession when I joined Angelella Editorial. Since then I've worked as a beta reader, literary assistant, and contest judge, reading across every genre and learning what separates the manuscripts agents request from the ones they pass on.
Most books are 80% there already. My job is to help you close that last gap — efficiently, clearly, and without losing the voice that makes your work worth reading in the first place.
When we're done, you'll feel fully confident submitting to agents and publishers. That's the goal every time.
Work with me →"Thomas Shimmield is the most talented young editor I've come across in my career, hands down. Don't let his age fool you — you won't find a more talented, insightful, or passionate editor for your book."
"Thomas allowed me to see my manuscript from an entirely new point of view, giving just the right amount of encouragement so I was excited to get back in and make it better. Top-notch."
"His keen eye for detail, coupled with a deep understanding of what agents and publishers seek, transformed my query letter into something that truly resonated with industry professionals."
Send me your first 500 words and I'll edit them for free — no strings attached. It's the fastest way to see if we're a good fit.
Whether you have a finished draft ready for editing, a half-written story you're not sure about, or just questions — reach out. I respond to every inquiry personally.