About
Hi, I'm Gabriella Sterio, a freelance non-fiction editor and website copywriter.
Before starting my editing and writing business, I worked in-house at HarperCollins, NewSouth and Murdoch Books. During that time, I promoted new releases, managed editorial processes and helped authors prepare their books for publication.
Since then, I've helped marketers, businesses and non-fiction authors polish their prose and hit send with confidence. My specialties include cookbooks, gardening, history, biography, business, narrative non-fiction and marketing. I've also written conversion-driven website copy that turns leads into sales.
So if your words aren't reaching the right audience or you'd like fresh eyes on your copy, drop me a line. As your trusted writing partner, I'll sharpen your message so it's clear, memorable and tailored to your ideal audience.
What are my editing superpowers?
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As an experienced cookbook editor, I know how ingredients should be listed, the terminology you should use (is it sprinkle or drizzle?), and the difference between a roux and a roulade! For more about my process, see Cookbook editing: A step-by-step guide.
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I worked in-house for two non-fiction publishers, so I've gained a lot of experience editing biographies, history books and creative non-fiction. To find out more about my subject matter expertise, see my FAQs.
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I've been trained in conversion copywriting, so if you're a business owner or marketer, my editing will always respect your keywords, brand voice and copywriting frameworks. If you need marketing support, I also write website copy and blog posts that engage customers, build trust and drive sales.
What's it like to work with me?
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Clients say that I'm fast, dedicated and thorough (must be my Type A personality!). And Mandy Sayer once described my editing as 'literary midwifery'.
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As a non-fiction editor, I ask lots of questions. That's because I want to understand your target audience, goals and style/brand guide before I get started.
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I provide a rationale for my edits or suggestions, as well as actionable tips on how to optimise your writing. To get a feel for my editing style, request a sample edit.
What are my credentials?
I'm a professional member of the Institute of Professional Editors (IPEd) and I'm always upskilling to improve my practice and keep up with industry trends. Here are some trainings I've completed:
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Bachelor of Arts in Communications (University of Technology, Sydney)
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Masters of Arts in Writing (University of Technology, Sydney)
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Diploma in Editing & Publishing (Macleay College, Sydney)
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Certificate in Advanced Editing & Publishing (Australian College, Sydney)
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Copywriting Essentials (Australian Writers' Centre, Sydney)
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editing workshops run by IPEd (Australia)
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copywriting trainings run by Copy Chief (US).
"Gabriella was a pleasure to work with. She 'got it' from the start. She brought wit, warmth and respect to They'll Never Hold Me. Her keen eye turned the verbose into the concise and ensured the narrative stayed true to the characters and events."
Michael Adams, They'll Never Hold Me, Affirm Press
