Recommended Reading – The Editorial Department

Grisham vs. Grisham Considering authorial freedom within the confines of genre fiction
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Grisham vs. Grisham Considering authorial freedom within the confines of genre fiction

General, Mystery / Suspense, Recommended Reading, The Writer’s Craft

Grisham vs. Grisham Considering authorial freedom within the confines of genre fiction

Did a bestselling master of his genre write the same novel twice?

On first glance, it might look that way. The premise and plot setups of John Grisham’s 1999 release The Testament and his 2013 release Sycamore Row are remarkably similar. Both novels feature:

The suicide of a wealthy man with a terminal disease, right at the beginning of the book.

The discovery of a last-minute handwritten holographic will that diverts a vast fortune from the family of expectant heirs to an […]

By Ross Browne|2019-09-10T21:38:28+00:00|General, Mystery / Suspense, Recommended Reading, The Writer’s Craft|Comments Off

“Sometimes this writing process is a bit lonely. We’re sticking our necks out and have no idea if we’re the only ones that care what we’ve written. The Editorial Department changes this for me. I’ve come to think of TED as my easily accessible writing family. Like a good family, TED tells me what works, what doesn’t, and shows me how to push forward. Peter Gelfan lends an incredible mind to this process, and your website offers writers information they’ll not find anywhere else.

While Peter Gelfan guided me down the path to write more like a professional and introduced me to the world of solid plots, Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts’ annotated editing turned me into an honest recorder of my characters’ voices and behaviors. That’s way better than just being a clever writer. I think that any writer who doesn’t use an intelligent editor(s) won’t ever know how good their work might be.”

Charlene Dietz
Torreon, NM

“One hour of consultation with John Marlow kicked my novel’s climax from a great ending to a killer ending! He was able to help me ratchet up the suspense, create some additional unique, memorable scenes and bring a couple of my characters to vibrant life.”

Brett Valette, Ph.D.
Superior, CO

“Renni Browne’s comments were a learning experience, invaluable to my writing journey.”

Sharon Spencer Shlesinger
Thousand Oaks, CA

“I’ve been very pleased. I feel that the quality of my writing has increased tremendously in my work with Betsy White.”

John Middleton
Author of Jem: Lessons in Living

“Karinya Funsett-Topping has been prompt and thorough with trustworthy professional guidance. I felt this team looked after me and my work, rather than just doing another business deal.”

Stephen Foehr
Author or Water War and other titles

“Working Shannon Roberts was great. The annotation was beyond what I was expecting and it totally helped me to fix a lot of issues I have been having with my writing.”

John Logsdon
Willow Spring, NC

“Betsy Tice White helped me add humor and clarity to my writing. This, in addition to her superb editing, organizational skills and constant encouragement makes her a first class editor.”

John S. Palmer
Washington, DC

“I basically learned how to write a novel from Peter Gelfan. Peter has helped me with all facets of editing, including plot development, on 4 novels over the last ten years. Three have been published.”

Chris Leibig
Author of Almost Mortal and other titles

“Engaging and easy to implement suggestions and changes. I’m very pleased with the results.”

Benjamin Kane Ethridge
Author of Black & Orange

“Where the Monster Weights began as a 120k wordy manuscript full of grammatical missteps and irrelevant diversions. Enter TED. The team drove through two content edits and one line edit to create a razor sharp storyline.

If you’re looking for a great editorial house, the search is over when you find TED.”

Corinne Weber
Author of Where the Monster Weights

“Shannon Robert’s comments gave me an objective overview of the problems areas within my manuscript. The suggestions offered were insightful and evidence that she had read the manuscript and carefully considered the areas that needed work. I know the manuscript will be stronger as a result.”

Shuna Meade
Dartmouth, Devon, UK

“Peter Gelfan’s guidance on story development has been a revelation for me. It has saved me a year — probably more — of wasting time on ideas that don’t work. He has given me a new perspective on writing novels. Worth the money? Without a doubt.”

Mary Maddox
Author of Daemon Seer & other titles

“I’ve looked for someone to help me for years and finally found The Editorial Department. They truly care about writers trying to make it in this market. I’m satisfied with the work of The Editorial Department.”

Charles Elkins
Albuquerque, NM

“What I see now is that y’all taught me how to write my novel. And I do mean my novel. No one tried to change my story but simply pointed out ways to make the writing better. Two years ago, one editor said he wasn’t sure if The Pursuit of Justice would ever be a marketable novel. Last month Kirkus Reviews called it ‘an auspicious debut’ … Thank You!”

Ben Matthews
Author of Pursuit of Justice

“Renni Browne’s comments, her grace and ability to correct and teach at the same time, have advanced my writing skills. She is a joy!”

Bonnie Kogos
New York, NY

“I’ve employed editorial services in the past, but The Editorial Department is so far above those that they’ve set a new standard for me. Professional, expert and incredibly easy to work with.”

Larry Bonner
Delray Beach, FL

“I am very happy. I think I got good advice delivered with heart.”

Noreene Storrie
New York, NY

“Both Jen Howard & Doug Wagner were very insightful, and their notes were clear and concise. ”

Norman Ollestad
Author of Crazy for the Storm (a New York Times bestseller) and other titles

“I have been extremely pleased with the services that the Editorial Department has provided me. Andy Hilleman’s critique and guidance for my ongoing struggle with my novel has been invaluable as I forge ahead with this project. The office staff has been particularly supportive. Tucson is so very lucky to have access to such a fantastic service!

Mary Jane Overall
Tucson, AZ

“I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my experiences with the professionals at the Editorial Department. They helped me write my second book, from initial concept to manuscript completion, in less than two months.”

Steven Knope, MD,
Author of Concierge Medicine

“Personable communication tailored to my needs. Pleasure to work with, gave excellent advice and delivered excellent feedback.”

Steve Little
Westfield, NJ

“I never would’ve developed as a fiction writer without the Editorial Department. The advice is invaluable, the insight brilliant, and the people exceptional. And, thankfully, their services are affordable. Go ahead, check around.”

Tony Bertauski
Author of The Discovery of Socket Greeny

“I feel the comments and annotations were helpful and even more important, instructive. It’s like a personalized download of college-level critique focused on my work, my writing skills and techniques. Awesome.”

Robin Merrill
Mesa, AZ

“I was delighted with the detailed comments about my manuscript and welcomed the straightforward suggestions of what worked and what needed to be strengthened. Overall, it was a valuable learning experience that veered me down paths I wouldn’t have thought of on my own.”

Millie Richmond
Sebring, FL

“I have worked with The Editorial Department for many years, which has included everything from plot development, character development, line editing and even interior and cover design. TED was not the first group I worked with for these services, but they will be the last. Great, highly qualified and collaborative people who have made a positive difference in my writing.”

John H. Cunningham
Author of the Buck Reilly series

Red Light Return

“I’ve learned more about fiction writing working with Renni Browne, Ross Browne, and Shannon Roberts than I did completing my graduate writing program. Their insights regarding my manuscript were invaluable.”

Mark Ziebart
Boulder, CO

“As I’ve come to expect from TED, the business end was flawless and smooth. I felt as though I had a partner in the work.”

Terry Green
Sherman Oaks, CA

“I was extremely pleased with both the thoroughness and honesty of the evaluation of my manuscript. John Marlow is a great help, and quite clearly knows what he is talking about. I got the help and input I needed to take my project to the next level. Thank you all!”

Paula Fletchall-Bryner
Anchorage, AK

“I really like working with The Editorial Department–not only because the editing work is excellent and professional but also because the staff is extremely helpful and always make me feel welcome.”

Yveta Germano
Alpharetta, GA

“I am completely blown away by the feedback from Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts. That kind of clear and concise feedback is absolutely invaluable, and I can see now why so many published authors continue to work with TED after succeeding.”

Mags Storey
Newmarket, ONT

“I recommend this service to any writer who wants a balanced, constructive appraisal of his or her work.”

Mark Davis
Columbus, OH

“This is the third time I’ve engaged The Editorial Department and the third time I’ve been more than satisfied. Your editors are friendly, helpful, and easy to work with. They give thoughtful and valuable feedback and make strong suggestions to help improve the manuscript. I’m very pleased with the work Shannon Roberts did.”

Christopher Buecheler
Author of Blood Hunt and other titles

“TED was very helpful and wonderful to work with and I learned a great deal from Shannon Roberts and Doug Wagner.”

Phillip Adam
Green Bay, WI

“You’re providing a very useful service to writers in search of that increasingly elusive commodity: a detailed and knowledgeable critique of a book’s strengths and weaknesses. I was very pleased with my manuscript evaluation. I found your prices to be fair in terms of the services delivered and the professionals providing them.”

Mimi Jones Hedwig
New York, NY

“I had no idea what to expect when I sent you the manuscript, and I am SO GLAD I did. I’m ready to begin the revision, and thanks to your feedback, I know what to do. I frankly feel like I’ve gotten an education from this process, an invaluable one. It was far worth every penny.”

Melanie Reese Senn
San Luis Obispo, CA

“Several years ago Ross Browne critiqued my manuscript, Poison Pen, which was the first really helpful input I’d had. Ross’ comments helped me understand and implement important changes that needed to be made throughout the book. Bottom line, Poison Pen soon received a starred review in Publishers Weekly. As a result, Penguin has purchased the first two books in the series from Capital Crime Press, the small publisher who took it on.”

Sheila Lowe
Author of Poison Pen and other titles

“I had several “ah ha!” moments when Renni Browne or Shannon Roberts pinpointed weak areas in the plot – and offered solutions. Both editors had ideas about how to add depth to main characters and spice up the conflict. The annotation was incredibly thorough.”

S.E. Floyd
Temple Terrace, FL

“The comments received and questions raised open up new avenues to explore and generate new ideas that would not have occurred to me otherwise. The encouragement is a real boost to my confidence and inspires me to think bigger and bolder. This service has made a tremendous difference in my development as a writer. It’s like attending a private writing class.”

Estela Bernal
Portland, OR

“Renni Browne’s comments are clear and straightforward. They not only help improve a particular scene, but help make me a better writer while maintaining the essence of the story I’m trying to relate. Beth Jusino has extensive knowledge of the marketplace and provides impactful insights into how to market a book. She also writes great copy. ”

Rich Silvers
Author of Have You Seen Her?

“I appreciate Peter Gelfan’s expertise as an editor. He keeps me focused and his editorial skills exceeded my expectations. So glad I explored using an editor on this journey.”

Valerie L. Rice
Lansing, MI

“I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to help bring out the best in my manuscript. They gave me great value for the money.”

Mike Lusk
Geneva, IL

“The care you took with this shows on every page. Your edits were wonderful, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate them. You not only removed the filler so the rest shines, but also improved the best stuff as well.”

Scott Reardon
Author of The Prometheus Man

“I have received the report and am very pleased both with the invaluable advice and gentle way it was presented.”

Nicholas Chiarkas
Author of Weepers

“Where do I start? They care about the writer. Renni is my editor and she is tough but right almost always. She’s also complimentary so it isn’t just constant critique. I highly recommend them. Ross is wonderful to work with as well. He is quick to respond and always ready to help. I’d never use anyone else.”

Kathleen O’Donnell

Author of The Invisible Heiress and other titles

“Renni Browne is tough but in a good way. She’s also supportive, complimentary, encouraging, and funny as heck. When she tells you something is falling flat, she means it, and when she tells you she loves something, she means it. And when I say Renni has been a wonderful editor, mentor, support-system, cheerleader, coach, and now someone I call a friend, I mean it.”

Chevy Stevens
Best-selling Author of Still Missing and other titles

“Very satisfactory at all levels. The interactions with my editor have been very pleasant, and her comments and suggestions are extremely helpful, not only for revising this one manuscript, but also for acquiring a better understanding of all of the elements involved in the writing of a novel.”

Maria S. Sanchez
San Francisco, CA

“Thorough and professional. Betsy White gave valuable suggestions that led to a major rewrite of my manuscript.”

Harold Thorpe
Butte des Mortes, WI

“I’m happy to be your client and grateful for your many services that have exceeded my already high expectations.”

Holland Kane
Author of Winter Reeds and other titles

“I’ve been writing for ten years to marginal avail. But with assistance from TED my skills have accelerated. I could not have taken my novel to where it is now headed without you. Feedback is direct but encouraging, at times painful, worth every penny.”

Andrew Quinn
Author of Waterfall Dance

“In the time since I’ve been working with TED I’ve grown so much as a writer. It’s like taking a writing class where you’re the only student. I also learned how to take criticism as well, a very important skill for a writer to have.”

Bishop O’Connell
Author of The Stolen and other titles

the stolen by bishop oconnell

“Shannon Roberts’ evaluation of my manuscript was, at the same time, the most enlightening and most excruciating experience I’ve ever had. Though difficult at first, I’ve managed to implement most of the changes and the manuscript is indescribably better as a result. ”

John Robbins
Mesa, Arizona

“I loved working with TED. Everyone I was in contact with was very professional. I had a tight timeline and the review, re-read, as well as the copy editing by Doug Wagner, were all within my timeline. I really appreciated this. Thanks.”

Manju Soni
Mystic, CT

“My experience has been wonderful. My evaluation helped point out the good and the bad in my book. This helped me focus on the specific issues needed, instead of floundering endlessly on revisions. I have recommended TED to my writing friends and will continue to do so.”

Carla Rehse
Copperas Cove, TX

“I now know why so many authors in their acknowledgments say, ‘This book would not be what it is if not for such and such editor.’ Peter Gelfan is one of those editors”

Bud Kenny
Author of Footloose in America

“My experience with The Editorial Department has been outstanding! Their customer service and enthusiasm is wonderful, and my editor a pleasure to work with.”

Jason Reinhardt
Tucson, AZ

“All the staff at The Editorial Department answered questions in a prompt and gracious manner. My work with Beth Jusino was great. She gave me feedback and asked questions regarding my novel which gave me a greater vision of the storyline.”

Patricia Patterson
Atlanta, GA

“Excellent communication and professional in every sense of the word.”

Jeff Bolinger
Hampton, Australia

“Peter Gelfan is just the right fit for me. I get the feeling he really understands what I’m trying to do and he has the expertise and sensitivity to help me do it.

I’m so glad I’m not alone in all this.”

Charlie Knudsen
Shizuoka, Japan

“Excellent input, great communication. Felt personally connected to each person I spoke with. I especially enjoyed the honest feedback and the way the criticisms were given. I have become a better writer as a result of my interaction with Betsy White and the rest of the Editorial Department.”

Tommy Black
Midway, GA

“I feel lucky. I feel humbled. But most of all, I feel grateful. I’m grateful to everyone at the Editorial Department, and especially grateful to Renni Browne. Without them, my dream would not have come true.”

Scott Pratt
Author of An Innocent Client and other titles

an innocent client by scott pratt

“Beth Jusino is amazing. She really “got” what I was trying to do with the story and her ideas are fantastic. She made great suggestions and I can see my story growing stronger when I implement her ideas.”

Joya Fields
Author of Beneath the Surface and other titles

“I think most of Peter Gelfan’s input was spot on and will greatly assist me in improving the manuscript. It will, I now realize, be more of a deconstruct/reconstruct effort than a polish, but based on Peter’s insights I think I have a good handle on how to proceed. Money well spent.”

R.E. McDermott
Author of Deadly Straits and other titles

“Karinya Funsett gave me valuable advice on everything from character development to plot issues that were confusing, and all things in between. It was by far the most valuable service I’ve done for my novel. ”

Lora Williams
Kingsport, TN

“TED’s evaluation of “The Darkness at Dawn” was spot on. Andrew Hilleman identified both the manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing me to move forward with clearly defined objectives for my next draft. Andrew’s insights have given me the confidence I need to rewrite and edit knowing that I am on the right track.”

Pamela Roberts
Lee Alamogordo, NM

“Betsy White was exceedingly helpful, insightful, encouraging, and most important, always available. My experience was a very positive one.”

Lloyd Holm
Washington, IA

“I’ve partnered with The Editorial Department on my last three novels because I know my books are far better as a result. We writers aren’t the best judge of our own work, so it’s incredibly helpful to receive their professional feedback and support.”

Laura Fitzgerald
National Bestselling Author of Veil of Roses and other titles

veil of roses by laura fitzgerald

“I am more than impressed with the professionalism and encouragement I’ve received from each member of your staff, from first contact on. I cannot imagine working with anyone else from now on.”

Auburn McCanta
Author of All The Dancing Birds

“I found TED through a recommendation of one of my favorite authors. I was honestly blown away with their professionalism and customer service through the entire process. Their communication, as well as the work they performed exceeded my expectations.”

Lorilee Lippincott
Omaha, Nebraska

“I was very impressed with The Editorial Department. Karinya Funsett-Topping’s Manuscript Evaluation was detailed, informative and very helpful. I was impressed with the amount of feedback and have put it to good use.”

Debra Adair
Scottsdale, AZ

“I learned more about good writing from Beth Jusino’s annotations and feedback than from any post-grad course I’ve done. I hate to think what I might have put out there without her great advice.”

Bobbie Cole
New Brunswick, Canada

“To the folks at The Editorial Department, Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts, this book is light years ahead of where it was before I started working with you. I give you my utmost thanks.”

D. Robert Pease
Author of Noah Zarc series and other titles

mammoth rtouble trouble by D. Robert Pease

“My introduction to Shannon Roberts was through a manuscript evaluation. Her comments, ideas and humor had me taking a machete to the pages and coming back for a re-read report. She is meticulous, honest and insanely talented.”

Chris Little
Author of The Darkness of Shadows

“Your level of service exceeded my expectations. Ross Browne patiently answered my questions, concerns and made this experience pleasant and fulfilling. My editor’s evaluation was honest, hopeful and her direction brought my writing to a whole new level. I appreciate everything TED has done for me and I’m grateful for all your help!”

Marni Mann
Author of Memoirs Aren’t Fairytales: A Story of Addiction

“The staff at The Editorial Department is first-rate. In my dealings with them I’ve found them to be prompt, professional, and extremely good at what they do. The work is innovative and creative. The company is well run too. Every time I called, someone actually answered the phone and either provided assistance or put me through to someone who could.”

Cynthia Anderson
Author of River Talk

“I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with The Editorial Department. They go above and beyond to give prompt, friendly service. And Shannon Roberts’ comments on my manuscript are always insightful and spot on. I would recommend them without hesitation!”

Kathleen Tremblay
Los Angeles, CA

“We received superb advice from Peter Gelfan. He nailed the book’s structural problems and gave us the the tools to fix them.”

Rick Becker and Ann Brandvig
Portland, OR

“John Marlow has by far given me the most constructive feedback on my three novels and one screenplay. Others — including some professionals — only gave me some pats on the back and made a few comments that had nowhere near the substance needed. John sees things that I am still working on grasping. No one else has done that for me, and I appreciate it immensely.”

Mike Merrell
Author of the Abby Westminster Series

“A very helpful set of services and exceptionally talented staff. My critique and evaluation were delivered to me in a timely manner. The quality of commentary was very helpful and critiques were articulate, allowing me to improve my manuscript.”

Lee Libro
Lakewood Ranch, FL

“Peter Gelfan brought a fresh perspective into the picture, along with a great sense of humor, a ton of patience, and many brilliant ideas. Writing a book is a protracted and sometimes intimidating process, but having The Editorial Department to fall back on makes the going much easier.”

Louise Vimmerstedt
Tucson, AZ

“Shannon Roberts helped educate me in novel writing and because she took the time to really understand and evaluate my work, she was able to lift much of the writers block off my shoulders. This gave me the motivation to press forward, take my lumps and learn from my mistakes. Shannon Roberts is invaluable and I couldn’t have made it this far without her. ”

Jay Price
Imperial Beach, CA

“I appreciated the frank criticism along with the suggestions to improve the work. It has definitely improved dramatically the end product. This input from TED has been a worthwhile investment.”

George Sopasakis
College Station, TX

“I was pleased with the prompt responses, professionalism, knowledge of craft, and caring I experienced. It really did feel like you guys were allies. Working with Shannon Roberts has been wonderful. She gets it. She can be tough and I don’t always want to hear what she has to say, but as it sinks in I realize she’s usually right. What’s been missing in my writing career is a professional editor. Thanks so much.”

Barbara Ledingham
Seattle, WA

“I followed about 90% of my editor’s recommendations. Then I submitted to three editors. One (a S&S imprint) has offered a contract which we are looking at right now. I credit the improvement in the quality of my manuscript to the work I received from TED. I plan to do the same thing with the next book.”

John Faubion
Author of Friend Me

“Shannon Roberts was wonderful to work with. Very demanding but also totally professional and tactful in her feedback.”

Jim Adam
Huntersville, NC

“Renni Browne has an hysterical sense of humor and she gets it. She gets the pain of a writer trying to find the words, changes everything for the better with one red line and though tough in her critique sometimes, does so with a true desire to develop something good into something great.”

Jacqueline Gum
Ft Lauderdale, FL

“I have been very happy in my experience with the Editorial Department thus far. For a young writer such as myself, the commentary goes beyond the piece in question to serve as a sort of education in and of itself.”

Taylor Brown
Author of In The Season of Blood & Gold and other titles

“John Marlow’s critique far surpassed my expectations. He pointed out problems that I probably never would have seen on my own due to my familiarity with the material. I had no idea he would be so thorough. Very professionally done.”

Dave Erickson
Iowa City, IA

“I’ve digested Renni Browne and Shannon Roberts’ notes, comments, suggestions and encouragement and can honestly say I’ve never been more fired up about a rewrite. Their insights, thoughtful analyses and gentle techniques for steering me past my thousand squishy sentences have given me the tools and ideas I need to put the final polish on Killer, Cop and Me.'”

Jane Howatt
Oak View, CA

“I am not objective when it comes to The Editorial Department. Everyone was professional, friendly, encouraging, and gave terrific advice. I learned so much, but the lesson that will stick with me is that I put my trust in The Editorial Department in the first place.”

Heather Denniss
Oregon, Ohio