If you have found my site, it’s very likely you are in the final stages of completing your writing project, or maybe you are just getting started? Either way, I know how much time and effort goes into writing – you may have just finished a manuscript you have been working on for years! The idea of taking the next step and reaching out to an editor can be daunting, so I thought I’d share a little more about myself to make you feel as comfortable as possible if you decide to reach out – I hope you do! 

My journey into publishing first started in my final years of my History and English Literature degree. The fear of ‘what do I do now?’ that pervades the mind of many students became increasingly prevalent. I signed up for a careers event, and was lucky enough to meet with a book editor. I had thought about a career in publishing before; I loved writing, reading, and editing people’s stories, but I had no idea how to get into the industry. The editor gave me some excellent tips and, with a renewed sense of confidence, I applied for the Publishing MA at UCL. 

I started the course in 2018. Although a degree isn’t a prerequisite for entering the industry, the varied modules gave me a great overview. During my time there, I was lucky enough to secure internships with HarperCollins and Murdoch Books which gave me a real insight into what a career in books could look like. 

Fast forward to graduating in 2019,  I started work as a freelance Publishing Assistant with Lolli Editions which I loved! My work ranged from proofreading and copyediting to collating publicity plans. I managed this work with my role as a Customer Service Specialist at HarperCollins where I supported the distribution of their titles globally. Ultimately distribution wasn’t for me, but it hugely enhanced my appreciation of the lifecycle of a book. 

In 2021, I started work at Edinburgh University Press as an Assistant Editor, then Senior Assistant Editor on the Literary Studies list. Working at EUP was a dream. From co-ordinating peer review to handing completed manuscripts over to the production, I loved working with authors and our fabulous team throughout the process. I was lucky enough to work with some amazing commissioning editors who taught me so much, and supported me as I took my next steps into commissioning.

2023 was a year of great change for me. My partner and I made a huge leap in deciding to move to the South Coast of England. This coincided with a new role for me as Commissioning Editor at Newgen KnowledgeWorks. At Newgen, I started commissioning titles for Lived Places Publishing, which I still do. To date, I have commissioned over 70 titles for them in the Social Sciences and Humanities. 

I had harbored ideas of working freelance for a while when I made the leap in 2024. It hasn’t been without its challenges, but I have no regrets so far. People in publishing often say that their favorite aspect of their job is variety, but it's true. With a range of projects, and getting the chance to meet and work with new people all the time, there is never a dull moment – every day is different. 

Working freelance, by nature, gives me more freedom outside of work. When I’m not at my desk, you can find me reading (mostly fantasy, romance, or historical fiction) at my local café. I have recently taken up knitting; I’ve made some questionable items so far, but I like to think I am improving. I also love to run. I am currently in the final stages of training for the Chicago Marathon which is equally exciting and terrifying! Whenever I can, I love to travel to new places.

I hope this has given you a little more insight into my life and experience. I really enjoy getting to know my clients and building great working relationships with them. Client care is always a priority for me. If you would like to discuss how we can work together, please reach out at susannahbutler.edits@gmail.com.