Sigrid Macdonald

You’ve worked too hard on your manuscript to hand it over to an editor who will rewrite it in a different voice. My job is to make your writing stronger, clearer, and more polished while keeping it unmistakably you.

For 25 years, I’ve edited and evaluated novels, memoirs, business books, self-help guides, mysteries, and a wide range of fiction and nonfiction. My work goes far beyond correcting grammar and punctuation. I look for inconsistencies, repetition, awkward wording, problems with clarity, and the countless small details that can distract readers from your message.

Whether you’re seeking a literary agent or a traditional publisher, or planning to self-publish, I’ll help you prepare your manuscript for the next stage of its journey. I also work with query letters, synopses, and book proposals, and I’m happy to recommend experienced professionals for cover design, formatting, and uploading to Amazon.

“Working with Sigrid on my book, Creating Negotiation Leverage, was a pleasure. She was quick, professional, and highly competent, providing thoughtful edits that improved the clarity and flow of the manuscript. Beyond correcting grammar and style, Sigrid offered valuable suggestions that strengthened my overall message. I highly recommend her to any writer looking for a skilled editor who genuinely adds value to their work.”

Ken Bradley, Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer, Lytica

The Chicago Manual of Style is the gold standard for fiction and nonfiction books, but I am equally comfortable adapting to another style. I also work with plain and inclusive language, helping writers communicate clearly and effectively while identifying words that might be outdated, unintentionally exclusionary, or distracting to today’s readers.

Many of my clients return with their second—or third—manuscript. Others find me through referrals from authors I’ve worked with previously. To me, there is no greater compliment than an author trusting me with another book or recommending me to a friend.

Over the past two decades, I’ve worked with ten national and international publishing companies, and I’m also the author of four books, so I know what it’s like to hand over a manuscript you’ve invested your heart, time, and soul in to a stranger.  

Whether you need major reconstruction or minor surgery on your manuscript, we can polish your prose!

Ready to get started? Contact me for a free sample edit of 600 to 1000 words and see what Book Magic can do for your manuscript.

What Clients Are Saying About Book Magic

“When I engaged Sigrid to review and, later, copy edit my autobiography, I was looking for more than an editor armed with
Strunk and White. I was looking for someone to guide me through the delicate issues involved in unravelling a complicated personal narrative. Sigrid did not disappoint me with her thoughtful and insightful comments and suggestions. She was more than an editor; she was a partner and coach.” 

Derrick King, author of Love for a Deaf Rebel: Schizophrenia on Bowen Island

“Sigrid edited two books for me, and I am delighted with her work. She took one of my projects on short notice and, within a week, had me back on track and on schedule. Throughout both projects, Sigrid not only edited the manuscripts but also advised me on my writing, storytelling, and various tactics for reaching readers. I also appreciate her reliability—she will give you a date when the manuscript will be back, and it is in your inbox.”

Gib Parrell, author of The Future, The Past

“I found Sigrid online. I reached out, and within a couple of days, we were working together. Beyond just editing, Sigrid is a mentor and advisor, passionate about her work, and super easy to work with. I gained a lot more confidence in my project thanks to Sigrid’s comments and feedback. I highly recommend her services.”

Ned Nadima, author of Stories of My Life