Why I’m an editor
Growing up, my morning cereal was accompanied by the daily newspaper. But the edition I read was unique.
My dad, who wrote a weekly column for a community newspaper for 10 years, always got to it first. He identified spelling mistakes, awkward sentences, and unclear meaning with circles, squiggly lines, and question marks.
I didn’t know it then, but my childhood breakfasts were early lessons in copy-editing.
In elementary school my classmates called me Mr. Dictionary. In journalism school they called me Mr. CP (Canadian Press, the style guide we followed), and there was a rumour I was the first student ever to get a perfect score on a style quiz.
After graduating I was hired to work in the newsroom of the same paper I’d been reading my whole life. I knew I wouldn’t hear the end of it from my dad if he caught a mistake I missed.
Over the years, I edited hundreds of stories and never missed a deadline. I bring the same expertise, precision, and aplomb I developed then to every project entrusted to me now.
My dad has since passed away, but I still carry his lessons with me. I strive to never let him — or my clients — down.
I invite you to check out my credentials, testimonials, and services offered.
If you have any questions or would like a free sample edit, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Testimonials
“Liam’s help was invaluable! With his skills and attention to detail, he helped not only make a good book great, but a four-time award winner! He’s the most talented editor I’ve had the pleasure of working with!”
— CHAD ROBERT MORGAN, AUTHOR OF THE BABY-EATER, RUNNER-UP OF THE 2023 LOS ANGELES BOOK FESTIVAL
“I have known Liam for almost two years now and I have found him to be very dedicated and passionate about his work. He edited and assisted in the writing of my novel and his work was excellent. I was impressed with how he captured the essence of the novel and how he maintained the integrity of the writing throughout the process of editing. He is punctual with deadlines and overall he did an outstanding job.
“As an individual, Liam is honest, open and easy to work with. I can not only recommend him as author/editor, but also as a good person.”
— JOSE CABANILLAS CORAL, WRITER
“Challenged with a massive undertaking—editing a complete sci-fi trilogy of novels—and a tight deadline, Liam Ford completed the task with rapid genius. His professionalism is beyond reproach and his work extraordinary.
“When my follow-up trilogy is finished there is only one person I trust to polish the work to flawlessness. If you need your work to shine letter-perfect, look no farther.”
— SLOAN YOUNG, AUTHOR OF PRYMUS: WAR OF THE WHEELS TRILOGY
“Liam is exceptionally skilled at all aspects of editing, with a major eye for detail. We worked together on several aspects, including issues of structure and sequence, and ensuring the reader can always see and experience what is going on. He had a great deal of patience and many great suggestions in terms of storyboarding, flow, restructuring sentences, and showing me how to make them more dramatic. I can’t say enough about Liam and highly recommend him as an editor.”
— JOHN DE LORENZI, AUTHOR OF TAKE THE FRONT SEAT
“Liam edited my first novel, and I feel very fortunate for this. He provided me with valuable insight and did so with warmth and humour, leaving me with a manuscript I am now even more proud of.”
— DEAN HUSTINS, WRITER
“Liam has been a great resource for me and my team of filmmakers. He is my go-to guy when finalizing pitch documents and outlines for clients. His fast turn-around and professionalism is super convenient, giving me a lot of flexibility and room to focus on the next project.”
— RENIER BRONN, FILMMAKER
“Liam and I have been working together for almost a year. He is not just my editor; he is my coach, therapist and mentor. I am so grateful to have someone in my corner who is willing to take the time to truly educate me and encourage me to keep going, keep practising, and be patient. Liam’s knowledge and expertise surpass any of my expectations. He is a true professional.”
— KELSEY PEW, BUSINESS COACH
“Liam has assisted me on a number of spoken word and short stories. He’s helped me finesse and sculpt my work with his own unique touch while staying true to the heart and soul of what I am trying to share.”
— MUNISH SHARMA, POET, ACTOR, AND PLAYWRIGHT
“Liam went beyond all of my expectations, gave his valuable time, and dedicated himself in ways I was blessed by. Those who are fortunate to work with him will be more than satisfied with the results.”
— T.L. ALTON, AUTHOR OF UNDER THE SITKA TREE
“I don’t send any important documents without having Liam take a look at them first. He’s a master of clarity and concision, and ensures both the content and tone of your writing are perfect, regardless of the project. You won’t find a more thorough and diligent editor.”
— REAON FORD, AWARD-WINNING PODCAST PRODUCER, BROADCASTER, AND JOURNALIST (AND MY BROTHER)
Services
Developmental editing
- Focus on structure and organization of content.
- Suggest improvements to story, plot, narrative arc, and character building.
- Determine suitability for audience, medium, and purpose.
Copy editing
- Correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
- Improve syntax and diction.
- Establish, maintain, or enhance tone, mood, style, and voice.
- Ensure correctness, accuracy, completeness, logic, and continuity.
Proofreading
- Fix typographical, mechanical, and formatting errors prior to publication.