Elen Jane Turner

Elen Turner Editorial Services

Editorial services for travel, culture and arts writing

Have you…

• drafted a novel?
• completed a PhD thesis?
• outlined a memoir?
• got a good idea for a non-fiction book but don’t know where to begin, how to proceed, or whether your concept is solid?
• started or finished some other kind of writing project but need a second opinion on structure or tone, a sharp eye to fix lingering errors, or an overall manuscript assessment?

As an editor specialising in travel, culture and arts writing, I provide a range of editorial services for beginner writers, working professionals, businesses and academic specialists.

Currently based in New Zealand, I have lived, worked, studied, and traveled all around the world, including the UK, Czech Republic, Japan, Australia, Nepal, and USA. My personal interests are trekking in the mountains, good literature, popular and fine arts, and the intersections between traditional practices and contemporary life, all of which are reflected in my body of work writing work. If your personal and professional interests intersect with mine, you can be sure I’ll bring my passion and precision to your project.

My extensive travel experience and life lived around the world inform my work as a travel writer and travel editor. Whether you’re seeking a developmental editor for a travel memoir or a proofreader for your humanities academic thesis, or something in between, I deliver.

But don’t just take my word for it. Read what writers who have worked with me have to say:

Elen is a seriously good editor. I asked her to look at my most recent book proposal before I sent it to my agent, and her questions and suggestions honestly sorted out so many of the knots and tangles in my head. I came away with sample chapters that were so much more clean and clear. And as well as providing those ‘big picture’ edits, Elen also sorted out my glaring and tiny grammatical mistakes. In short, she is the kind of editor you want by your side. – Ailsa Ross, Author

I was thrilled to work with Elen Turner on my second memoir Still Life With Saints, Italian Adventures of Magical Spirit. Elen was more than a good editor, she has an ear for storytelling backed up with plenty of experience in the field. I met Elen as a behind the scenes editor on a few pieces I wrote for a popular women’s online travel journal. She is confident and thorough, respectful and deeply passionate about her work while maintaining the writer’s voice and integrity on the page. I highly recommend her. – Angela Paolantonio, author of Ghosts of Italy and Still Life with Saints

Elen provided valuable editorial feedback in her assessment of my manuscript. She identified areas that needed work with great precision, and explained clearly why. Her detailed report included notes on structure, pacing, language use, and privilege. There was even a page dedicated to encouragement, noting where the text made her smile, which I’ve printed out and will refer to when I need a boost! I feel confident and refocused moving forward with the project. I would recommend Elen’s manuscript assessments for anyone looking for professional, insightful feedback, with actionable suggestions for improvement. Thank you Elen! – Ashley Parsons, Freelance writer & book author

Elen provided clarity, thoughtful comments and great writing tips! I wanted professional insight on my travel impressions, and specifically chose Elen because her background is deep in travel writing. Her level of expert guidance and fun comments on my travel stories were so inspiring. As soon as I rewrite my travel pieces I most definitely will seek her assistance again. Thank you, Elen. – Lynne Frenna, Writer

Elen edited the first draft of my novel, where I received line-by-line comments as well as a separate letter detailing a theme-by-theme breakdown. Her thorough analysis of my work addressed my prior concerns and offered relevant, helpful feedback that I’m looking forward to addressing. I may have my work cut out for me, but I feel much more focused and motivated regarding which direction I’m headed in. Many thanks again, Elen! – Aimee White, Novelist

Nelson, Nelson
NZ

http://www.elenturner.com/

More information: View PDF file

Years in the field: 12
Years freelancing: 8