What my clients say

This was the first time I’ve used Hannah’s copy-editing services, and I can say with absolute certainty I’ll be reaching out again in the future. The care that Hannah puts into her work shows in the attention to detail in her edits, and her reports. She picks up major and minor world building elements and stylistic choices I’ve made as a writer. I could go on and on, but I’ll put it simply: If you’re looking for top-notch editing services you’ve come to the right place!
– Steven Healt, author of the Amboy series
I had the pleasure of working with Hannah, who is an outstanding proofreader, for my manuscript, and I cannot express enough gratitude for her exceptional service. Not only did she meticulously proofread every word, ensuring accuracy and coherence throughout, but her attention to detail and dedication to perfection truly set her apart. Thank you, Hannah, for your invaluable contribution to my work.
– Amanda Hughes
I requested two services from Hannah. After she critiqued, I knew I wanted her to edit my manuscript. Hannah did an amazing job. The critique and editorial reports were so professionally laid out, it was a pleasure to read. I found Hannah’s ability to pick up on inconsistencies amazing and so helpful. I learned a lot through the process.
Hannah was very open to any questions I had and got back to me in a timely manner. I found this part of the service particularly helpful and I am grateful for the extra time she gave me.
I can honestly say that Hannah made me feel so much more confident as a writer.
She was extremely professional and I can’t recommend her enough. I would love to work with Hannah again in regard to future projects
– Veronica Griffin
Thank you for making the copy editing process painless. From the first point of contact, your communication was great and I really appreciated the update midway through. The feedback you’ve given is constructive and the suggestions are helpful.
I’d definitely recommend your services and hope to work with you again in the future
– Jody Derby

Hannah, I’m so grateful to you in helping me reach my goal in publishing A Myrmaid’s Kiss! I don’t know what magic you worked in your critique, but it really brought out the best writer in me. I’m so proud of the story that shaped from that point on—the finished book is an entirely different (and much stronger) story than what I first sent you. I think you have a real gift to not only see the potential in a story but to spot important, minute details for improvement that writers couldn’t possibly see themselves. And your suggested cuts and edits truly helped my story further come to life. You’ve really taught me not only to accept feedback but to embrace it! I’ve gotten very comfortable with killing my little darlings, even if I still need the nudge ☺. 5/5 stars! You’re the best editor. Can’t wait to work on my next book with you!
– Ashleigh Bello, author of A Myrmaid’s Kiss
Your manuscript critique offered way more guidance than I expected. The critique was actionable with so many example issues and example edits that I feel a lot more ready to tackle editing. I was expecting a much shorter letter-form of critique, and I couldn’t be happier with the organization and detail you provided.
– Joss Hevel
I am delighted that Black Cat Editing was recommended to me. Hannah, you have been consistently clear and professional since our first email. The developmental edit you conducted has been nothing short of incredible. You skilfully identified areas for improvement, brought attention to aspects I hadn’t considered, and, most importantly, provided abundant positive feedback. Your encouragement has significantly boosted my confidence as I move forward with this story. I really hope you’re able to work with me again in the future. Thank you!
– Ryan Hamshaw
As a professional editor myself, I was very impressed by Hannah’s attention to detail, both in the manuscript and in her editorial report. I was also chuffed to receive my own style guide. After seeing an initial sample edit, I felt confident in going ahead with the booking. I will happily use Hannah’s services again.
– Jill Dobson

Everything looks great! Your feedback is, once again, immensely helpful, and I appreciate your attention to detail. Sometimes, I see your suggested changes and think, ‘How did I miss this?’ Other times, I’m impressed by how you picked up on something I would never have noticed. Thank you!
– Morgan Spellman, author of Roses Are Red, Violet Is Dead

In addition to being a joy to work with, Hannah has an incredibly keen eye for catching all the teensiest, tiniest typos; mistakes; inconsistencies; and continuity errors.
– SI Clarke, author of the White Hart and Starship Teapot series
A truly professional critique of my manuscript. Hannah indicated the ways I could make the good and less good bits better. That is the heart of my thanks to her: she analysed the text in depth and gave me both encouragement and positive routes to make the whole manuscript the best that I possibly can.
– John Sodeau
Enjoyed working with you, Hannah. Your insights were great and will help me improve so much. You broke down your services well for me which helped me decide how to proceed with editing. The cost and time frames helped me pull the trigger to invest in continuing with my story. Thanks so much!
– Case Silva
I have used Hannah’s manuscript critique services several times now and can’t say enough about how excellent her reports are. She has helped me with everything from pacing issues to sentence level details. I will always recommend Hannah if someone is looking for an editor.
– Steven Healt, author of the Amboy series

I worked with Hannah to revise my 5-book YA Fantasy series. Over the course of our time together, I’ve learned so much from her and have really grown as a writer. She’s not only a fantastic editor (she catches everything!), but she takes the time to teach you when there’s a lesson to be learned. Grammar aside, she’s also amazing at helping an author keep the integrity of their stories and their fantasy worlds. So many details went into my world-building that it was impossible for me to keep it all straight at times. I also got some things very wrong in my development at first; I’m so grateful that she took the time to highlight these instances, for accuracy in my storyline and in creating a more ‘realistic’ place for my characters to grow.
The world of Olleb-Yelfra would be a very different place without you, Hannah. Thank you for everything!
– Ashleigh Bello, author of the Belvedor Saga
The copy-edit was comprehensive, conducted with sensitivity to the author’s voice, together with excellent advice, and was delivered on time. In short, a thoroughly professional service which I cannot recommend highly enough.
– Ian Cook
Thank you very much for your thorough, multifaceted critique of my work in progress. I appreciate especially that a review of a partial manuscript is unorthodox and commend you for rising to the challenge! Your feedback is exactly what I need in order to identify some specific ‘dos and don’t’s’ as I undertake the rest of my work. The manner in which you have delivered your review is concise yet comprehensive, critical yet motivating, technical yet also subjective. Thanks again. I hope to have a completed manuscript for your appraisal (if you are interested!) in the future.
– Jack Rogers
Hannah McCall carried out an excellent critique of my manuscript, and completed the task exactly on schedule. She was very thorough with her work and spotted all the flaws, but offered usable solutions, advice and encouragement. I was very impressed, and grateful for her efforts
– Peter Hingston

Hannah at Black Cat Editorial Services is an outstanding copy editor. She tightened up my short story collection, High Spirits, without compromising my author’s voice. I chose Black Cat Editorial through recommendations from The Alliance of Independent Authors, and because she had an interest in the genre that I write in (speculative fiction). I requested additional services (genre and comparative author recommendations) and Hannah fulfilled all my requests. The work was completed in two weeks as promised. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
– J. T. Croft, author of High Spirits

These edits were very thorough and helpful. You demonstrated a good understanding of what I was going for in terms of voice, genre, etc and recommended changes that would only make it stronger. I appreciate the editorial report with information on what you looked for and why you recommended certain changes. It made this book stronger and will help me improve my writing in the future. Thank you so much!
– Morgan Spellman, author of Say I Boo
Thank you as always for your careful work and meticulous attention to detail. And, it’s so useful to have your style sheets. I wish all our copy-editors and proofreaders prepared them!
– Helen Hart, publishing director of SilverWood Books
Always satisfied with Hannah’s critique and copy edit. Greatly appreciate how much I have learned from her. Would never hesitate to recommend Black Cat.
– Julie Conrad
Very professional work from Hannah. I especially liked the fact she kept in contact with me throughout the editing process. I will be looking to work with her again in the future.
– Tom McLaughlin

Hannah did an outstanding job of line editing for my novel. Her invaluable suggestions helped me to enrich my writing to a higher level.
– Michael Girik, author of Three Lives in Three Seconds
Lovely and professional edit. Very pleased with the quality of work.
– Katherine Ward, editorial assistant at Troubador Publishing Ltd
Thank you! I really appreciate your thoroughness and all your feedback. I’m particularly grateful for your notes regarding the genre (I had not heard of “New Adult”) and potential copyright issues with using song lyrics – I had looked into this briefly and it’s a bit of a minefield, so thank you for your advice.
– Kate Sherratt
Thank you so much for your critique report. Most of the problems you found in the manuscript were things that felt wrong to me while I was writing but couldn’t pinpoint why. This report really helped me to understand why all these issues arose and what I could do to fix them! I know the manuscript will be much better because of it!
– Catarina Flores

Hannah, thank you for a brilliant and friendly service! The clear and professional supporting documentation you provided is especially welcome. I look forward to working with you again in the future.
– Stephen Rice, author of A Handful of Souls

More than happy with the service I received. It was speedy and thorough. The spelling section on the style sheet is very handy as it will help me avoid making the same mistakes with future pieces of work. I would definitely recommend and will be using Black Cat again.
– A. M. Vivian, author of The Waiting Usurper
Thank you for your valuable contribution and your splendid work. I appreciate your professional attitude and the timely completion of the project. I will come back to you for my next novel. Thank you once again.
– Anuradha Kipf
Thank you for the help that you gave me … I would not have had the confidence to publish had it not been for your edits and words of encouragement.
– Pete Ford
Totally professional; delighted with your copy editing. I am learning from you as I go along. I always feel confident in your edits and feedback on all aspects, be it critique or writing style etc. Trust and reliability.
– Julie Conrad

Insightful and sympathetic copy-editing that improved the storytelling.
– Ian Hudson, author of The Chocolate Thieves
Hannah did a great job with the final edit of my manuscript. I would highly recommend.
– Ryan W. Aslesen
More than happy as always. Will be using you again for my next book because I know I can trust you to do a good job and do it on time. Thanks
– August Head
Hannah is very thorough. I really appreciated her ‘eagle eye’. I will definitely use her services again
– Linda J. Wright

Thank you very much, Hannah, for your incredible work in polishing this very rough gemstone to a lustre
– J. T. Croft, author of A House of Bells

You are a star. Thank you.
– Kath Kirkland, author of the Mum Runners series
Working with Black Cat Editorial has been a wonderful experience! I was nervous putting my writing in the hands of another for a critique, but Hannah’s feedback and insight will certainly help me improve my stories. I also applaud her professionalism in how she conducts her business. Money well spent, thank you!
– Ashleigh Bello
Thank you, Hannah. Your critiques really help me move forward with my manuscripts.
– Joan Brown
Hannah has a knack for an economy of critique: To-the-point and on-point without drawing the writer’s blood with those very sharp points
– Ron Fent

I am once again thrilled with the services provided by Black Cat Editing. Hannah, your dedication and professionalism continue to impress me. The copy edit you completed for my manuscript is brilliant. Your meticulous attention to detail has ensured that the text is polished and precise. I appreciate how you preserved my voice and style while making necessary corrections and suggestions. Your comments were clear, constructive, and always supportive. This level of expertise and care has made a significant difference in the quality of my work. I am incredibly grateful for your efforts and look forward to working with you on future projects. Thank you!
– Ryan Hamshaw, author of the Keepers of the Crossing series
You’ve exceeded my expectations. In addition to a thoughtful copy-edit consistent with the story and mindful of its themes, you’ve also provided feedback on categories that are both strengths and weaknesses with clear explanations and examples which will help not only this manuscript but also future projects.
– Betsy Breitenbach
I was so delighted to read the Editorial Report. Even though many beta readers provided feedback – and appear to have guided me well in the areas you mentioned – you are the first professional
reader to look at my fiction writing. It really feels like gold to receive this feedback. It’s almost like having a masterclass in the writing process. I’m also feeling encouraged about the prospect of future writing projects. Thank you so much. If I do write further fiction, I hope to use your service again and I will definitely recommend your service to others.
– S. J. Southwell
Hannah was prompt, professional, and a joy to work with. The copy-edit for my novel was comprehensive, while the Style Sheet and Editorial Report offered far more detail than I was expecting. Apart from the fact that I now have a publishable manuscript, I strongly believe that Hannah’s feedback will help me to become a better writer. Thank you!
– James Cousins
Exactly what I wanted. Many thanks, the review is excellent. Thanks for being patient with it.
– Daniel Foster
Hannah elevated my manuscript with her smart and thoughtful edits. Her editorial report was helpful and informative. The process was made easy, and everything was completed on time. I’m very pleased with the outcome, and I would happily work with her again.
– Matthew Thompson
Thank you, Hannah, for your in-depth, detailed suggestions regarding “The Nine-Tailed Fox.” I’ve given your developmental report a quick scan, and will hunker down soon to incorporate your thoughtful recommendations. Not only are you punctual, but ahead of schedule. I appreciate that you are well versed in the difference between British and American punctuation. … I look forward to working with you again on my current novel, “Brother Orca, Sister Wolf.”
– Willow Healy