It Takes A Village To Create A Masterpiece
Whether you need a developmental edit, a manuscript proofread, or a sensitivity reading, I endeavor to bring out the best in every story I have the honor of engaging with. I work with my author clients to bring their vibrant worlds to life.
How I Can Help
Developmental editing which involves a comprehensive, big-picture review of your manuscript. This is where we will refine the overall structure, plot, character development, pacing, and themes of your novel. I will help enhance the story’s coherence, readability, and emotional impact, and offer feedback and suggestions to strengthen the narrative, address inconsistencies, and overall improve the story. My aim is to help you shape and refine your work to ensure your story reaches its fullest potential.
Proofreading which involves a meticulous review of your manuscript in order to identify and correct errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and syntax. My primary focus is on ensuring your novel adheres to consistent style guidelines (I use the Chicago Manual of Style). During this process, I will check for typographical mistakes and formatting issues in order to ensure your manuscript is as polished as possible and ready for publication.
Sensitivity readings which refer to the process of having individuals from marginalized or underrepresented communities review your manuscript to provide feedback on potentially sensitive or controversial elements. These can include portrayals of race, gender, sexuality, disability, or any other cultural aspect. Sensitivity readings help authors like you approach their content from a standpoint of awareness and empathy while promoting inclusivity and cultural authenticity in your novel.
I am a Black, blind woman, and my goal is to ensure that the depiction of characters and themes containing any or all of these identities is relayed in a respectful and accurate manner. I also endeavor to ensure your novel remains free of harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.
About Me
Hi, I’m Olivia. I have always been drawn to story and the limitlessness of imagination.
As a lifelong reader, getting lost between the pages of a novel was always where I found my bliss. As I grew into adulthood, I felt compelled to work in the book publishing industry, to be a part of bringing those same stories that captivated me into existence for others.
My company, Defying Boundaries Publishing LLC, exists to elevate the voices of authors from marginalized communities. As an avid reader, I noticed that traditional publishing only promoted diversity within a very narrow scope. I was hard-pressed to find fantasy novels with a Black protagonist or a romance novel featuring a disabled lead character. Representation truly does matter, and for the longest time, I never saw myself reflected in any of the stories I loved. You know the saying “Be the change you want to see”? Well, this is me, being that change. I want to help bridge the gap between authors from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and the audiences clamoring for their stories.
Defying boundaries isn’t just the name of my company: it’s a way of life. I am embarking on my journey as an immigrant to Portugal after having resided in Ohio for many years. I graduated from Columbus State Community College in 2012 with an associate’s degree. I now pursue continuing education in the field of book editing in order to bring my best to each author client who entrusts me with their work.