freelance proofreader | The Blue Pencil

A cosy writing setup with a candle, wool throw, and a cup of coffee, creating a warm, romantic mood.

How to Write a Good Sex Scene

Learn how to write intimate scenes that readers connect with—without slipping into clichés or purple prose. These simple tips help authors focus on character emotion, tension, and authenticity to create scenes that enhance the story.

Deborah Taylor

Dec 9, 20253 min read

Black and white photo with a man in a suit jacket writing on paper with screwed-up pieces of paper around him on the desk.

Copy Editing vs Proofreading: What Indie Authors Need to Know.

What’s the Difference Between Copy Editing and Proofreading? One of the most common questions I get from authors is: What’s the...

Deborah Taylor

Oct 7, 20253 min read

From manuscript to marketplace: the 10 key steps in the self-publishing journey.

The Stages of Publishing: What Every Self-Publishing Author Should Know

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes before a book lands in a reader’s hands? If you're thinking of self-publishing, understanding the stages your manuscript must pass through can help you plan, budget, and avoid burnout.

Deborah Taylor

Jul 17, 20252 min read

A block of justified Lorem Ipsum text in German is shown, with two typographic issues highlighted. A vertical line of white space between words, labeled “River,” is marked with red curves and a black arrow. A vertically aligned pattern of hyphens at the end of lines, labeled “Ladder,” is marked with a red bracket and another black arrow.

10 Surprising Edits Copy Editors Make to Improve Your Writing

Discover 10 subtle but powerful edits a copy editor makes to elevate your writing—many of which you might never notice!

Deborah Taylor

Jun 9, 20253 min read