I’m a published playwright, non-fiction author, and former literary agent and publisher. I have 30 years of experience working with authors to bring their ideas to realization. I work as a development editor in wide array of genres in both fiction and non- fiction projects.
Professional Development Editor and Publishing Consultant
Creative Writing and Developmental Editing
My skills to assist writers are:
• Editorial direction of many successful non-fiction book proposals for traditional publishers.
• Developmental editing for novels and non-fiction: Genres: Memoirs, Autobiographies, Self-Help, Business, and Political Philosophy.
• Managing titles from the first idea to successful publication.
• I have ghostwritten mysteries and thrillers, and for Young Adult.
• Helped find publishing solutions in the U.S.A and the U.K.
• Assisted clients selling foreign rights for specific titles.
• Project Management and developmental editing for children’s Illustrated books.
•My strengths are actively working with new writers to get to the heart of their stories and find page-turning commercial traction in their narratives. Please check out my freelancer profile: https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~01f3feb09e60fa7eaa?viewMode=1
Publishing Consultant
I was the owner and publisher of a small press and work with clients as a publishing consultant in all aspects of the often bewildering print, e-book, audio book publishing, and book distribution process.
Publishing Consultancy Services that I provide.
•Review and honest appraisal of your manuscript’s commercial viability.
• Non -Fiction book proposal research, development, and delivery.
•Insight into self -publishing solutions vs. traditional publishing.
•Preparing a step-by- step plan for author’s to build interest in their writing.
•Please note that I do not provide literary agency services.
Children’s Illustrated Books
I work with authors and illustrators to help them realize their children’s books and YA titles.
•I provide a full review and developmental editorial services.
•I work with the author on inspiration, character development, and structuring the illustrator call outs.
•Project management. I work with layout designers, production editors, to insure that the quality and details flow on every page.
•Please email for a quote on any of the above services. Note: Do not send any samples of your work, unless I have requested it in writing.
Thank-you.
“Robert Astle, Editor and Publishing Consultant with Highline Editorial is exceptionally brilliant as a professional, creative editor. His attention to detail starting with our book proposal to final edit for publisher submission far exceeded our conception. Mr. Astle went beyond an editor’s commitment to excellence; his superb guidance in consistently meeting deadlines and suggesting revised content ensured the successful launch of our book in early 2022. ”
“Robert Astle has been my editor on two of my books. In each of these books he turned my preliminary ideas into professional manuscripts. When I got stuck he coached me through the blocks. Robert turned my books into projects that I was proud of and caught the eye of publishers. Not only is he an exceptional editor, but he motivated me to complete the projects. He was a partner and stayed with me from beginning to the end. I owe the success of my books to Robert Astle. He throws his intelligence, skills, heart and soul into any project he takes on.“ Paul Schienberg, PhD
“Robert had the experience and insight I needed to help me take the next step in developing my novel and preparing it for publication. His expertise and frank communication skills are noteworthy and were crucial in guiding me through this process. I would hire Robert again and would certainly recommend him to anyone who needs an editor, publishing consultant, or creative freelancer.”
Congratulations to the entire creative and publishing team for winning the Bronze Medal for the 2021 Readers’ Favorite Award.
HighLine Editorial 