No-nonsense nonfiction.

Making good writing great.

Copyeditor and proofreader for authors, publishers and institutions.

I’m Colin Cooper, a nonfiction editor determined to help my clients write books that get published and publish books people love.

I also work with international agencies and NGOs on reports and technical documentation. I have a Bachelors degree in International Development and a Masters in World Heritage Studies.

I started Grand Apostrophe in 2016 to help writers from all backgrounds to publish with pride.

For authors and publishers

  • I will help you to structure – or restructure – your manuscript, transforming it into a cohesive and focused book that will impress publishers and inspire readers.

  • My copyediting service ensures readers won’t be distracted by the errors and inconsistencies that sneak into every author's writing.

  • I will work with your copyedited manuscript, paying close attention to revisions and looking out for issues that may have slipped through the net.

For institutions

  • My years of experience editing textbooks, developer-facing documentation and INGO reports means I can check your technical content meets internal requirements, client guidelines and industry standards.

  • My proofreading service is the last line of defence between your project and its publication: I'll cast a fresh pair of eyes over the pages to ensure inconsistencies are banished and errors are eliminated.

What my clients say…

“Colin helped me to improve and edit the manuscript for my first book. As a non-native English speaker I appreciated his help making my writing clear and precise.”

— Ulf Laessing, author of Understanding Libya Since Gaddafi

“Colin proofread several high-profile, confidential documents and was consistently accurate with his work. His expertise meant we produced first class, sector-wide legislation which we could be very proud of.”

— Tanya Tribbell, Council of University Chairs

“Diligent, thorough, thoughtful and good humoured. An absolute pleasure to work with and one of our best critical friends.”

— Nick Southall, University of Exeter

“I needed a professional eye to look over my manuscript before submitting to an agent. Colin made sure my writing maintained a consistent voice and style and offered a style sheet to follow for any future edits. He offered constructive, creative input to strengthen the text and was timely throughout the process.”

— James Bloomfield, author

Contact

Every author needs an editor.

Get in touch to find out how I can help you today.