Emma Stead Writing & Editorial
Bringing your stories and ideas to life through expert writing and editorial services.

“Writing is not life, but I think that sometimes it can be a way back to life.”
– Stephen King
I’m a professional writer and editor with extensive experience across both fiction and non-fiction. To date, I have edited over 500 books and ghostwritten more than 150.
My work and experience spans multiple genres and formats, from romance and horror to business books and personal development. I have spent 6+ years helping writers bring their stories to the world in both UK and US English.
Whether you need developmental editing that transforms a manuscript, ghostwriting that captures your unique voice, or original content created from concept to completion, I bring both creative insight and editorial precision to every project.
With a First-Class Honours degree in English Literature and a deep understanding of the market and what makes stories resonate, I’m here to help you achieve your publishing goals, whatever form they take.
Services
Fiction Editing
From developmental editing to line-level polish, I help fiction writers strengthen their manuscripts across all genres. Specialising in horror, gothic romance, and dark fantasy, but experienced in everything from middle-grade to literary fiction.
Non-Fiction Editing
Clear, compelling non-fiction requires precision and structure. I provide developmental editing, copyediting, and content refinement for books, articles, business materials, and more.
Ghostwriting
Need someone to bring your story or ideas to life? I’ve ghostwritten for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and creative clients across multiple genres and formats, capturing authentic voice while delivering publication-ready work.
Content Writing
Original articles, web copy, short stories, and commissioned pieces crafted to your specifications. I deliver engaging, professional content that connects with your intended audience.
Portfolio
Featured Work
From supernatural fiction exploring trauma and transformation to heartfelt personal narratives, my writing demonstrates range, emotional depth, and careful craft. Browse samples of my creative work and editorial projects below.
Credentials
Experience & Expertise
- Editor-in-Chief at Author Writer’s Academy
- Co-Founder & Senior Editor of ELA Literary Magazine
- 6+ Years of Experience in editing and ghostwriting
- First-Class Honours in English Literature
- Professional Ghostwriter for entrepreneurs and business leaders
- Active Submissions to literary horror publications and genre magazines
- Extensive Knowledge of submission markets and editorial standards
What Clients Say…
8/4/2025 ★★★★★ 5.0
“Emma is professional, efficient, and a true editorial partner. I had the pleasure of working with Emma on my book, and her support was instrumental in bringing it to publication. From start to finish, Emma demonstrated an impressive balance of precision, speed, and professionalism. Her approach was both swift and efficient—always staying on schedule and meeting deadlines with ease, while remaining collaborative and communicative throughout. I never felt left in the dark or rushed; Emma took the time to listen, offer constructive suggestions, and ensure the final product reflected my voice and intention. Her editorial skill elevated my manuscript, and the attention to detail brought clarity and polish without losing any of the emotional depth I wanted to share. If you’re looking for someone who truly understands how to partner with authors and deliver high-quality editing on time, I highly recommend working with Emma.”
7/7/2025 ★★★★★ 5.0
“Emma is an outstanding editor whose sharp eye for detail elevated our manuscript to a truly professional, publishable standard. She masterfully improved the flow and clarity of the text while perfectly preserving the original author’s voice. Her feedback was always insightful, the process was efficient and highly professional, and I would happily work with her again.”
5/2/2024 ★★★★★ 5.0
“Hiring a ghostwriter was the best decision I ever made and picking Emma was even better! She was professional, thorough, encouraging and morphed into writing as I would write with ease. Her attention to detail and communication were exceptional. I could not have done it- or done it as well- without her. We will for sure work together again.”
8/6/2024 ★★★★★ 5.0
“Emma is a very talented writer and delivered a very high-quality work. I found her to be a very intelligent & well-read writer. She ran with my ideas and turned it into a book that I am proud of having. She added a very good unique angle and unique points to it from her side. She is fast at her work and is also quick enough to think about many points before you think about it. She was very adaptable in integrating my requirements and comments in the book. She asked intelligent questions, wherever required. I found it very easy to work with her. Excellent and fast communication. I will definitely like to work with her again. And I will totally recommend her.”
6/3/2025 ★★★★★ 5.0
“UH-mazing! This is the second time I have worked with Emma (and not the last) because she is creative, patient, attentive to detail, organized, reliable and honest. She is perfect to collaborate with and adds incredible value! I am lucky to have found her!”
Ready to Work Together?
Whether you’re looking for editorial support, ghostwriting services, or original content creation, I’d love to discuss your project. Get in touch to talk about how I can help bring your vision to life.
