Testimonials

The cover of the book Once upon a Mulberry Field by C.L. Hoang

“From the first time I talked with Arlene over the phone, I have been nothing but impressed by her professionalism and knowledge, not to mention her delightful personality. As a first time author, I had a lot to learn, and Arlene was extremely helpful and patient with me, pointing out everything from common pitfalls to more obscure rules and conventions. Her attention to detail is unparalleled, and it remains consistent throughout 400 pages to give my manuscript a polished feel I didn’t think possible.

“As well, Arlene worked diligently to accommodate my rush schedule and was always just an email or phone call away, always happy to answer any questions I had. I cannot recommend Arlene more highly. I know I can count on her professional help to take my future writings to the next level.”

— C. L. Hoang
Once upon a Mulberry Field
California
February 2014
www.mulberryfieldsforever.com/
[email protected]

The cover of Shadows in the Lake by Elizabeth Urbahn

“It was such an exciting day when I received my MS back from Arlene. As I read through my story again, I appreciated what a gifted editor she is and what magic she had worked, gently and sensitively reworking and polishing my work until it sparkled. Arlene is wonderful to work with—keeping in constant contact with me as regards progress of my MS, seeking clarification when required and, at all times, being sensitive to my writing style. It has been the best decision I have made in regard to my writing. Thank you, Arlene. I will always be indebted to you for sharing your expertise and your encouragement of me as a writer.”

— Libby Urbahn
Shadows in the Lake
Australia
November 2013
[email protected]

“I’ve just finished reading the prologue, and I am shocked at how smoothly the final result reads. I must say I am quite impressed, and I am completely humbled. What you have edited is simply amazing. So I will now call you my sufi—mentor in Chinese culture. Now it’s time to go into my cave for the next few months, and when I come out, hopefully, if God is willing, I will write as smoothly as what you have edited.” Two months later: “I’m learning so much from your editing. This writing stuff is easier when one knows what one is doing wrong!”

— Thomas Meller
Temple of the Heavens (in progress)
Vancouver, British Columbia
August 2013
[email protected]

 

“The revisions are going well, and I’m so happy with the terrific job you’ve done. I love your notes, comments, and edits―they really nail the issues. Some of your observations make me think, ‘How did I even make this mistake?’ Your ability to recraft sentences and paragraphs is stellar. I am thoroughly impressed. I’m sure I’m not the first nor the last who’ll praise your editorial talent. The work you’ve done is amazing. It feels as if I’m reading someone else’s work, yet know that it is mine―only a professional version of mine!”

— Rashad Pharaon
When Kings Fall (in progress)
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
May 2013
rashadpharaon.com
[email protected]

“Arlene’s magical editing touches elevated my manuscript from decent to first-class. She has amazing skills, is a delight to work with, and from a business perspective is first-rate. She is diligent to the point of perfection. Both budding and experienced writers can’t do any better than Arlene.”

— Bernie Fandrich
The Majestic Thompson River
Lytton, Britsh Columbia
January 2013
www.kumsheen.com
[email protected]

“I spent considerable time searching for the right editor for my book, and made the correct choice with Arlene for reasons that went far beyond what I understood at the outset. I realized that I needed technical expertise and received it in abundance. Arlene’s professional skills are outstanding, and her storyline suggestions made a huge impact on the readability and overall quality of my writing. Her patience, ability, and willingness to help me better understand POV was so much more than I expected. The most impressive and valuable service she provided, however, was that of perspective. Arlene and I differ considerably on many of the social issues central to the plot of my book, yet she deftly and professionally worked with me to better interpret the impact of my words and thus broaden the overall market appeal of my story without compromising what was important to me. Arlene is a top-notch professional for whom I have great respect and admiration.”

— Jim McCulloch
Fracture Gradient
Oregon
October 2012
www.jimmcculloch.com/
[email protected]