7 Best Historical Fiction Book Editors Your Manuscript Deserves in 2025
Let’s have a real talk. You’ve spent months, maybe years, lost in another century. You’ve painstakingly researched Tudor dining habits, the tensile strength of a Roman gladius, or the slang of 1920s flappers. Your characters feel more real to you than your neighbors. And now, your manuscript is done. It’s a living, breathing thing. But it’s also terrifyingly vulnerable.
Handing that manuscript over to an editor feels like sending your child to their first day of school. Will they see the magic in it? Or will they just see the one time you accidentally mentioned a zipper 300 years before it was invented? For historical fiction authors, this fear is amplified tenfold. A great story can be sunk by a single, glaring anachronism. A powerful character arc can be undermined by dialogue that just doesn’t feel right for the period.
I’ve been there. I’ve stared at my screen at 2 a.m., wondering if a Viking would really say something was “awesome.” (Spoiler: he would not). The truth is, writing historical fiction isn't just about telling a story; it's about resurrecting a world. And to do that successfully, you need more than a proofreader. You need a partner, a fellow time-traveler, a guardian of your story's soul. You need a specialist. This guide isn't just a list; it's a map to finding that perfect partner who will cherish your world as much as you do.
Why Editing Historical Fiction is a Whole Different Ball Game
Let's be blunt. Anyone with a good grasp of grammar can edit a contemporary romance. I'm not knocking the genre, but the editor doesn't have to worry if the heroine's text message slang is historically accurate for 2024. For us? It's a minefield. Our editors aren't just grammar police; they're historical detectives, cultural anthropologists, and linguistic specialists all rolled into one.
A historical fiction editor is looking at your manuscript through a unique dual lens:
- The Storytelling Lens: Does the plot work? Are the characters compelling? Is the pacing right? Is the emotional arc satisfying? These are the universal questions for any great novel.
- The Authenticity Lens: This is our special burden. Does the world feel real? Is the dialogue authentic to the period, class, and location? Are the material details—clothing, food, technology, weapons—correct? Are the societal norms, beliefs, and prejudices accurately portrayed without feeling like a lecture?
A personal anecdote: In my first manuscript, set in Victorian London, I had a character "shrug." My editor, bless her eagle eyes, pointed out that shrugging was largely considered a French affectation at the time and wouldn't be a common gesture for a working-class English character. It's a tiny detail. Most readers might not even notice. But getting those tiny details right is the difference between a costume drama and a truly immersive experience.
A great hist-fic editor doesn't just catch your mistakes. They elevate your work. They might suggest a more period-appropriate word that has a deeper thematic resonance or question a character's motivation based on the societal constraints of the era. They are your first, most critical, and most dedicated reader.
Decoding the Rosetta Stone: Types of Editing for Hist-Fic
The word "editing" gets thrown around a lot. But for a self-publishing author, you're the project manager. You need to know exactly what you're hiring someone to do. Let's break down the main types, specifically for our genre.
1. Developmental Editing (The Architect)
This is the big-picture edit. You do this first, when your manuscript is a glorious, sprawling mess. A developmental editor is your architect, checking the foundation of your story.
- For Hist-Fic, they ask: Does the historical setting serve the plot, or is it just wallpaper? Are your characters' actions believable within the constraints of their time? Is the central conflict plausible for the era? Have you info-dumped your research, or woven it in naturally?
2. Line Editing & Copyediting (The Artisan & The Finisher)
These two are often bundled, but they're distinct. Line editing focuses on the craft at a sentence level—flow, voice, and rhythm. Copyediting is more technical, focusing on grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency.
- For Hist-Fic, they ask: Is the vocabulary period-appropriate? (No "okay," "hello," or "nice" in medieval England). Are you maintaining a consistent authorial voice that complements the historical tone? Are there any sneaky anachronisms in your metaphors or descriptions? (e.g., describing something as "moving at a snail's pace" is fine, but "moving at the speed of a bullet train" is not). They'll also check your character names, place names, and dates for consistency.
3. Proofreading (The Inspector)
This is the absolute final step before you hit publish. After the book has been formatted, the proofreader gives it one last pass to catch any typos, formatting errors, or stray punctuation marks that slipped through. This is not the time for major changes.
- For Hist-Fic, this is: Your final safety net against that embarrassing typo in a historical figure's name or a date that's off by a century.
⭐ The A-List: 7 of the Best Historical Fiction Book Editors & Services
Okay, let's get to the good stuff. Finding an editor can feel like shouting into the void. Where do you even start? This list combines curated marketplaces, specialized services, and reputable freelancers known for their work in the historical fiction space. Disclaimer: This is not a paid endorsement. It's a starting point based on reputation, specialization, and author feedback. Always do your own due diligence!
1. Reedsy Marketplace
Best for: Authors who want a curated selection and a secure platform.
Reedsy isn't a single service; it's a high-quality marketplace. They vet their professionals, so you know you're not getting a hobbyist. You can filter specifically for editors who list "Historical Fiction" as a primary genre and see their portfolios, which often include books from major publishing houses. The platform handles contracts and payments, which adds a layer of security. The key is to be specific in your search—filter by your subgenre (e.g., Regency Romance, WWII, Ancient Rome) to find true specialists.
2. The History Quill
Best for: Authors who want a service that lives and breathes historical fiction.
This is a boutique service that does one thing, and they do it exceptionally well: historical fiction. From developmental editing to copyediting, their entire team is composed of specialists. They understand the nuances of the genre better than almost anyone. They also offer services like beta reading with readers who are specifically fans of historical fiction. This is a huge advantage. Getting feedback from your target audience before you publish is invaluable.
3. Sarah Dronfield (Freelancer)
Best for: Authors seeking a highly experienced, award-winning freelance editor.
An Advanced Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), Sarah Dronfield is a name that comes up frequently in author circles. She specializes in historical fiction and has a long list of glowing testimonials from authors who praise her insightful feedback and supportive approach. Working with a top-tier freelancer like Sarah means you get a highly personalized, one-on-one relationship. Be prepared to book well in advance; the best freelancers often have a waiting list.
4. Jericho Writers
Best for: Writers looking for a UK-based service with deep industry connections.
Jericho Writers is a comprehensive author services company based in the UK. They offer a range of editorial services and what sets them apart is the pedigree of their editors. Many have worked for major publishing houses in the UK. On their site, you can browse editors by genre, and several, like Rebecca Roy, explicitly list "Historical" as a specialty. This is a great option if your book is set in Britain or you're targeting a UK audience.
5. Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) Partner Directory
Best for: The diligent author who wants to find a vetted professional through a trusted organization.
ALLi is the leading professional association for self-publishing authors. They don't provide editing services directly, but their Partner Directory is a goldmine. Every service provider listed has been vetted by ALLi and adheres to a strict code of standards. You can search the directory for editors and filter by genre. This is less of a direct match and more of a trusted hunting ground. It empowers you to find great options, knowing they've already passed a significant quality check.
6. Upwork (with extreme caution)
Best for: Budget-conscious authors who are excellent at vetting.
Okay, stay with me here. Upwork can be a race to the bottom, but there are seasoned professionals on the platform if you know how to look. Ignore the lowball offers. Look for editors with a "Top Rated Plus" badge, extensive job history, and specific mentions of historical fiction in their profiles and reviews. Stephanie S. is an example of an editor on the platform with publishing industry experience and historical fiction listed as a specialty. The key is to run a rigorous vetting process (more on that below). You can find gems, but you have to be willing to sift through a lot of pebbles.
7. Historical Novel Society (HNS) Network
Best for: Networking and finding editors through personal recommendations.
The HNS is the heart of the historical fiction community. While they don't have a formal editor directory, becoming a member and participating in their forums, local chapters, and conferences is one of the best ways to get word-of-mouth recommendations. You can connect with other authors and ask who they've worked with. An editor who comes recommended by a fellow hist-fic author is worth their weight in gold. This is the long-game approach, but it often yields the best results.
類 How to Choose Your Champion: A Vetting Checklist
Finding a promising editor is just step one. Now you have to make sure they're the right editor for your book. It's a job interview, and you're the hiring manager. Here’s a practical checklist to guide you.
The Vetting Checklist
- ✅ Check for Genre Specificity: Don't just look for "fiction." Look for "historical fiction." Even better, look for your specific sub-period. An expert in Roman Britain might not be the best fit for your Jazz Age mystery.
- ✅ Review Their Portfolio/Client List: Have they edited books similar to yours? Do they list books you've heard of or that were well-reviewed? This is proof of their experience.
- ✅ Ask for a Sample Edit: This is non-negotiable. Most professional editors will do a sample edit of 1,000-2,000 words for a fee (or sometimes for free if they're deciding whether to take you on). This is the single best way to see their style. Do they offer constructive criticism? Do they "get" your voice? Do their comments resonate with you?
- ✅ Discuss Their Process & Philosophy: Get on a call or have an email exchange. Ask how they work. Do they use Track Changes in Word? Google Docs? What's their typical turnaround time? What's their philosophy on maintaining authorial voice? You're looking for a collaborator, so make sure your work styles are compatible.
- ✅ Clarify the Scope and Cost: Get a clear quote in writing. Does it cover one round of edits or two? What happens if you have follow-up questions? Understand exactly what you're paying for to avoid surprises later.
- ✅ Check for Professional Affiliations: Membership in organizations like the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA), the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), or ACES: The Society for Editing is a good sign of professionalism and commitment to the craft.
Your Essential Community & Style Guides
Before you even approach an editor, arm yourself with knowledge. These resources are indispensable for any serious historical fiction author.
Red Flags & Anachronisms: Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring
Finding the right editor is also about knowing who to avoid. The indie author world is full of amazing professionals, but there are also sharks in the water. Here are the big red flags to watch out for.
- The "One-Size-Fits-All" Editor: If an editor's website lists every single genre from historical fiction to sci-fi to children's books to technical manuals, be wary. While some editors are versatile, a true specialist in our genre is what you need.
- Guarantees of Success: No editor can guarantee you a bestseller or a six-figure publishing deal. Their job is to make your book the best it can be. Promises of commercial success are a huge red flag and often come from vanity presses or predatory services.
- Unclear Pricing or Process: A professional will have a clear, transparent process. If you can't get a straight answer on pricing, timelines, or what's included in the service, walk away.
- Refusal to Provide a Sample Edit: If an editor is unwilling to do a sample edit (even for a fee), it's a major red flag. They're asking you to invest thousands of dollars based on faith alone. Don't do it.
- Poor Communication: Are their emails unprofessional or full of errors? Do they take weeks to respond to a simple query? This is a preview of what it will be like to work with them. Find someone who is responsive and professional.
燐 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to hire a historical fiction editor?
Costs vary widely based on the editor's experience and the type of editing. For an 80,000-word manuscript, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,600 for a copyedit to over $4,000 for a detailed developmental edit. Historical fiction editing often carries a slight premium due to the specialist knowledge required. Always get a custom quote.
What's the difference between a historical editor and a sensitivity reader?
A historical editor focuses on the factual accuracy of the time period. A sensitivity reader focuses on the authentic and respectful portrayal of marginalized groups or cultures, which is often crucial in historical fiction. You may need both, especially if your story involves cultures or experiences outside of your own.
When should I hire an editor?
Hire a developmental editor after you've finished a complete draft and have self-edited it to the best of your ability. Hire a copyeditor and proofreader after you've implemented the developmental edits and the manuscript is as close to final as possible. For more details, see our breakdown of editing types.
Can I just use beta readers instead of a developmental editor?
Beta readers are invaluable for getting a reader's perspective, but they are not a substitute for a professional developmental editor. A DE is trained to analyze story structure, character arcs, and narrative pacing in a way that most readers are not. Use both for the best results.
How long does the editing process take?
This depends on the type of edit and the editor's schedule. A developmental edit can take 4-8 weeks. A copyedit might take 2-4 weeks. Always confirm the timeline with your editor before you begin, and remember that the top-tier editors are often booked months in advance.
What style guide is used for fiction?
The standard for US book publishing is The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS). Most professional fiction editors will follow it for consistency in grammar, punctuation, and formatting. You don't need to be an expert in it yourself, but it's good to know that's the standard your editor will be applying.
Do I really need a professional editor to self-publish?
Technically, no. But if you want to be a professional author and compete with traditionally published books, then yes, absolutely. Readers have high expectations, and a book riddled with errors or historical inaccuracies will quickly earn negative reviews. It's the single most important investment you can make in your book's success.
The Final Word: Investing in Your Legacy
Look, I get it. The numbers we just talked about are not small. After pouring so much of your time and soul into writing the book, spending thousands more on editing can feel daunting. It's tempting to cut corners.
But this isn't an expense. It's an investment. It's an investment in your reader's trust, in your professional reputation, and in the story itself. You've brought a world back from the brink of being forgotten. You've given voice to people who lived centuries ago. That work is important. It deserves to be presented in the best possible light. Hiring the right editor isn't about fixing your mistakes; it's about honoring your story.
So take a deep breath. Use the checklist. Send out those queries. Find the person whose sample edit makes your heart sing because they not only polished your words but understood your vision. Find your champion. Your story—and your future readers—will thank you for it.
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