Sophie at Just One More | Romance Editor Interview
Behind every finished romance manuscript is an editor who has worked diligently in collaboration with an author. At Just One More, the clarity, coherence and impact of every word is prioritised to produce the best possible manuscript.
For this week’s blog post, Sophie at Just One More was kind enough to answer my questions about her own editorial process! A portfolio of her work can be seen below along with client testimonials available on her website.
Offering developmental, copy and line editing, alongside proofreading, content pulls and plot & plan, Sophie services shape a story from rough draft to final version! Whether you’re a seasoned author or quietly nurturing a draft on your laptop, this conversation offers a fascinating insight and advice suitable for any author!
Sophie’s Editing Process
Sophie’s editorial process looks different for each service she offers, providing realistic timeframes for her authors as well as communication throughout the process!
My process really depends on what kind of edit a client has booked, because every manuscript needs something a little different.
For a developmental edit, for example, I usually start with a full read-through and often read the last couple of chapters first (my reader heart absolutely hates my editor brain, but needs must!). That initial read helps me understand the emotional payoff the story is aiming for, so I can make sure the journey leading there really earns it. From there, I dive into the big-picture elements like structure, pacing, character arcs, and whether the emotional beats are landing the way they should.
For line or copy edits, on the other hand, the focus shifts to the sentence level; polishing language, smoothing flow, and checking for consistency.
Timelines vary depending on the type of edit and the manuscript’s length, but I always prioritise giving my authors a realistic timeframe from the offset so they know what to expect. I am also definitely ‘that’ editor who messages throughout the process to keep my authors informed (sometimes too much!)
For Sophie, the romance spark that we love as readers, is clear within the first chapter of a book. Through her keen editorial eye, when the spark isn’t obvious, she collaborates with her authors to bring it to the surface.
You can usually get a feel for it pretty quickly - often within the first chapter, sometimes even the first few pages! The spark usually shows up in the way the characters interact, a strong voice and the emotional tension on the page.
That said, just because the spark isn’t fully there right away doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Some manuscripts have a quieter beginning or a spark that’s buried under pacing or structural issues. Part of my job is spotting that potential and helping bring it to the surface, not just judging what’s on the page in its very first draft.
Sophie encourages writers to feel excited to work on the feedback she provides, reminding the author that they are in control and that they are the experts of the story, a testament to Sophie’s editorial dedication.
The most common issues I see are pacing hiccups (especially in the middle, because the middle is hard) and emotional/character arcs that could be explored more deeply. When it comes to feedback, I’m very conscious of making it feel like a conversation and collaboration, not a critique. I always start by pointing out what’s working, because there is always something working, and then frame my suggestions around helping the story become the version the author clearly wants it to be. My goal is for writers to feel encouraged and excited to revise, not picked apart. I also like to remind authors that they are the experts on their own stories; if they don’t vibe with a suggestion, if they aren’t sure or if they have questions, let me know!
Storytelling
The interaction between plot, characters, dialogue and action are paramount for strong worldbuilding within a story. Sophie collaborates with the author to make this possible!
I find that worldbuilding works best when it’s woven directly into the plot and the characters, not just running alongside them. I always try to encourage authors to let the world show up through action, dialogue, and emotional stakes. This could be by exploring how it shapes what the characters want, fear, and struggle against, for example! When the world actively impacts a story, it feels immersive and natural rather than something the reader has to pause to learn.
For you, what makes a narrative voice feel compelling in a romance?
A compelling romance voice feels intimate, confident, and emotionally aware. I love voices that feel natural but still have a little oomph and magic. As a romance reader, I want to escape everyday life and fall into the story, because who doesn’t love obsessed MCs who would do anything for each other? A strong voice should reflect a specific character, in a specific story, falling in love in a way only they could.
Creating the best possible romance book with her authors involves a clear understanding of author intention and reader experience, amplifying the parts of the story that make this possible!
I see my role as a bridge between an author’s intention and a reader’s experience. I’m not there to remove or change an author’s voice, only to clarify and amplify it. That means asking questions, offering options rather than mandates, and always keeping the author’s goals at the centre of the edit. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, authors are the experts on their own stories and it's important to find an editor who understands and appreciates that so authors can connect with them during the editing process.
Reflection
What is the most rewarding/your favourite part of what you do?
The most rewarding part of what I do is seeing an author publish their book. I feel like a proud mama, cheering them on every step of the way, and I’ll honestly be their biggest cheerleader forever. I also love getting to dive into the reviews afterward; it’s such a thrill to see readers connecting with a story that I knew from its very first baby steps.
A huge thank you to Sophie at Just One More for answering all of my questions! I am sure you will all agree that her responses offer useful insight into crafting romances, from both an author and a reader perspective. Make sure to give her all the bookish love on her social media, and if you are looking for a romance editor, check out her website!