Fred A.

Hi, I’m Fred Aceves. I'm an author and passionate book editor and coach. As a published author with HarperCollins, my work has been honored with multiple accolades. I know firsthand how deeply personal and challenging the writing process can be. That’s why I bring the same care and dedication to my clients’ work as I do to my own. Whether you're just starting out or preparing your manuscript for submission or publication, I’m here to help you bring your vision to life. While I don't use AI in my own editing work, I stay current on AI developments and understand its ethical use, helping writers navigate tools that support research or logistics without compromising their personal voice and expression. Below, you’ll find the services I offer. Not sure which one fits your needs? Just send me a message with a bit about your project and where you are in the process. I’ll point you in the right direction—even if that means recommending someone else. DEVELOPMENTAL EDITING Also known as substantive or content editing, this is where we shape the big picture of your book. For novelists: I focus on the essential storytelling elements—plot, structure, character development, pacing, setting, conflict, tone, and theme. Early drafts often need reworking or reshuffling, and I’ll help you strengthen what’s working while identifying what can be cut or improved. For nonfiction authors: I can help you build a clear, compelling structure, fine-tune your argument, and enhance your book’s flow. I’ll also help with chapter titles, subheadings, and ways to present information (or data) more clearly and visually. LINE EDITING & COPY EDITING Many editors specialize in one or the other—I offer both. That means more cohesive, efficient editing—and better value for you. Line Editing: I’ll help you polish your prose on a sentence level, improving clarity, flow, rhythm, and tone. This is about making your writing sing. Copy Editing: I’ll also address grammar, punctuation, spelling, consistency, and accuracy. BOOK COACHING If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just unsure where to begin, book coaching might be exactly what you need. Does any of the following resonate? I want to write a book, but I don’t know how to start. I’ve started—but I can’t seem to finish. The plot or structure feels like a mess. I’m creatively stuck. I’ve got pages of notes, but no clear path forward. I wonder if I have what it takes or if anyone will even want to read it. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do it alone. As your coach, I’ll help you: • Build a clear roadmap for your book • Set (and meet!) consistent writing goals • Get regular, personalized feedback • Brainstorm and troubleshoot ideas • Stay motivated and confident • Move from idea to finished manuscript Ready to take the next step? Get in touch, and let’s talk about how we can work together. The following is just some of my clients' feedback that you can find in my Upwork history: "Fred is a very accomplished, high-level editor with deep experience in editing nonfiction. I worked with Fred early in the conception state of writing my book and he eventually helped lead me towards a breakthrough that set me on the right path to finishing the book to great reviews." - Chris Shaver, author of Relationship Needs: Ten Shortcuts "Wonderful feedback and guidance helping me work through the content doubts I had. Always reliable, always offering valuable insights on how to progress. I highly recommend him." - Henrik Jensen, author of Masculine Meditations "Fred was outstanding to work with. An expert editor and it was great communicating with him. He totally got what I needed and delivered. Highly, highly recommend." - James A. Cosby, author of Rock Music, Authority and Western Culture "Fred has not only helped me ask the right questions about a journey I’ve never navigated before, but he’s also provided helpful resources along the way. These have made the entire process feel much more approachable and manageable. His expertise and support have been invaluable to my progress." - Dan Pardi, MS, PhD, CEO of Vivendi Health and author of the forthcoming What is Health? "Fred is thorough, patient, and committed to a level of quality that pushes you to rise to meet it. He's an editor who respects both your intention as a writer and the intelligence of your reader. Highly recommended." - Brandon Boyd, author of Undomesticated "Fred did an amazing job editing some essays for me. He took the initiative to ask some great questions that took the piece to the next level." - Larry Tadlock, memoirist and stand-up comedian