Penny Carroll
Writer & Editor
Hi there!
I’m Penny, a journalist and editor devoted to helping people tell their stories with confidence and clarity.
My goal is to help aspiring authors beat overwhelm and rediscover the amazing idea that inspired them to start writing in the first place.
I help them clear away the clutter they can no longer see so their voice can shine through.
And I empower them with the confidence to go after their publishing dreams, whether it’s to submit their manuscript to a publisher or self-publish their story.
As a magazine journalist for the last 20-odd years, I’ve written countless articles for big-name publications. I’ve also been on the receiving end of some blistering critiques. So, I know exactly what it’s like to write and wonder if the words are good enough.
The biggest lesson I’ve learnt?
Good writing takes work.
It’s not all about talent. Like any creative practice, writing requires dedication and commitment. It demands courage to keep showing up, even when it feels futile. And, it always benefits from professional editing.
I’ve been lucky to work with incredible editors who helped me develop my writing and push harder and dig deeper to create stories that sing. Now, as a freelance fiction editor, I’m paying it forward, empowering aspiring authors to take their stories to the next level.
Because even though writing might feel like a solo sport, it’s really a team effort.
So, if you’re …
— Overwhelmed and unsure if your plot is structurally sound or full of holes
— Going around in circles, making inconsequential changes and worrying you’re wasting time and words
— Wishing someone would show you exactly what you need to work on
— Dreaming of seeing your work in print but secretly worrying you’re not good enough
You’re in the right place. I can help you get perspective and fall in love with your manuscript all over again.
My story
Growing up with my nose perpetually buried in a book, it was inevitable that I would pursue a career telling stories.
I’ve spent the last two decades working in the publishing industry in a variety of roles – as a fresh-faced cadet for a daily newspaper, an editor of a knitting magazine, a reporter for TV WEEK, the editor of Women’s Fitness Australia, and, most recently, as a freelance journalist and editor for titles such as Lonely Planet, Women’s Health, Body+Soul, frankie, Country Style and more.
When the pandemic bulldozed its way into our world and Australia’s magazine industry seemed to collapse overnight, I discovered fiction editing. As a lifelong bookworm, I’m only shocked it took me so long!
Reader, I loved it. I completed a course in structural editing for fiction here in Australia and another in copy-editing with the Publishing Training Centre in the UK, and began working with some talented friends who generously let me practise on their precious manuscripts.
It felt like I’d found my calling. All those years fine-tuning magazine articles (my own and others’) merged seamlessly with my love for the transportive power of a good book.
Today, I’m still writing and editing for magazines and brands (check out my portfolio) in between editing fiction manuscripts. I offer big-picture structural edits that help authors clarify their stories, and detailed line and copy-editing that brings scenes to life. I also use my pitching skills to help writers craft compelling cover letters that help them stand out in the slush pile.
My approach is informed by my own experience in the rough and tumble of publishing, which is to say, I’m gentle with your words and feelings. I’m also committed to evolving my editing skills through industry-standard courses, workshops and seminars.
I’m here to help you tell your story with confidence.
my Editorial approach
I’m proud to describe my approach to editing as author-sensitive.
These four key values guide me in every project I take on.
Respect for craft
It takes hard work over many hours to write a novel and this level of dedication deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.
Positive feedback
Highlighting what the author has done well, whether it’s evocative writing, engaging dialogue or fantastic characterisation, is vital.
Gentle Suggestions
I aim to offer insightful suggestions that inspire your creativity rather than stifle it. The author is always in control of their story.
encouragement and empowerment
Working with an editor should always leave the author feeling empowered and inspired, not deflated or dejected.
Let’s do this
Ready to make your story as strong as it can be?
Reach out for a free discovery call or sample edit.