Jane Simmonds

Jane Simmonds – Editor

I'm a highly experienced non-fiction copyeditor, developmental editor and proofreader, specialising in gardening, memoir and business books.

Overview

As a full-time editor for over 30 years I have worked on a number of best-selling books in a wide range of subject areas. I work with mainstream and academic publishers, independent authors, businesses, charities and other organisations. I offer editorial support to ensure your message is clear and reaches your intended readers. I can help to develop and polish your non-fiction text from your first draft to the final proofs before publication.

I am quick to respond, and offer detailed, friendly feedback, whatever stage your work is at. I will always respect your words and your aims for your book.

Testimonials

"I must thank you for the wonderfully careful and sustained corrections. You've improved the accuracy of text and notes immeasurably.” Sir Brian Vickers, author of Thomas Kyd: A Dramatist Restored (copyedit)

“A massive massive thanks for all your help. Looking back I don’t think we could have got it over the line and certainly to the finish we have without you.” Independent author (copyedit)

“I really can’t thank you enough for your patience and skill with this book … you have provided the sparkle and expertise.” Margaret Rice, author of The Henry Bagwell Story and Merchants and Mayors (copyedit)

“It has been a huge pleasure working with Jane on this. Her encouraging and appreciative style coupled with her insightful comments and ideas really inspired me.” Joan van den Brink, The Three Companions (developmental edit)

"As a steady, dependable presence at a slightly fraught stage of the book journey, I was so grateful to have Jane on board. If you're looking for a detail-focused, reliable proofreader who can deliver high quality work to tight deadlines, I’d recommend Jane in a heartbeat." Zoe Langley-Wathen, author of 630 Miles Braver (proofread)

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Home & Garden Nature Self-Help & Self-Improvement
Languages
English (UK) English (US)
Certifications
  • Advanced Professional member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP)

Work experience

Self-employed

Nov, 1998 — Present
I successfully run my own full-time editing and proofreading business.

Dorling Kindersley

Mar, 1990 — May, 1998 (about 8 years)
Starting as an editorial assistant and progressing to a Senior Editor, I worked in a number of departments: Gardening (including titles for the RHS), DK Travel Guides, and DK Business Guides.

Portfolio

Copy Editing
Proofreading
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Proofreading
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Proofreading
Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
Developmental Editing
The Henry Bagwell Story

Rice, Margaret A

Secant Publishing LLC

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
630 Miles Braver: Midlifing on the South West Coast Path

Langley-Wathen, Zoe

HeadWriteOut Press

Proofreading
Curious: True Stories and Loose Connections

Front, Rebecca

Orion Publishing

Proofreading
Developmental Editing
Catching Giants

Kevin Gaskell

Sue Richardson Associates Ltd

Developmental Editing

Jane has 1 review

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Kim C.

Kim C.

Nov, 2025

Jane was a valuable resource for the developmental and copy edit of my nonfiction manuscript. Her suggestions clarified and improved the impact of my message. She communicated well and completed all assignments on time. I highly recommend!
Jane S.
Thank you for your kind review, Kim. I really enjoyed working with you - your book will be full of insight and practical suggestions for your readers. Wishing you every success with it!

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