I give humanities and social science scholars the kind of sustained, substantive editorial support that makes the difference between a good manuscript and a great book.
Substantive editorial review to strengthen structure, argument, and voice. Includes an editorial letter, annotated manuscript, and a clear revision plan. Whether you need developmental feedback on structure and argument, line editing for clarity and voice, or ESL editing for fluency and precision, I help your ideas reach the readers they deserve.
A strong proposal opens doors. I help scholars develop compelling book proposals that articulate the significance of their work, position it within the field, and speak directly to acquisition editors. From the initial concept through sample chapters and cover letters, I help you make the strongest possible case for your project.
Reader-focused indexes for scholarly and trade nonfiction, plus line/copyedits and press-ready proofing. I create indexes that serve as genuine research tools — helping readers find not just terms, but ideas and arguments throughout your book.
Most editors handle a single stage. I work with scholars across the full arc of a book — from proposal development through developmental editing, press-ready copyedits, and indexing. This continuity means a deeper understanding of your project at every phase and one trusted editorial partner from start to finish.
I'm Rio Hartwell. I help humanities and social science scholars turn ambitious research into polished, press-ready books.
I work with authors at every stage of the publishing process — from shaping a book proposal to delivering a final manuscript. My clients include faculty and researchers whose work has appeared with Oxford University Press, University of Chicago Press, Cambridge University Press, and other leading academic imprints.
What sets my approach apart is continuity: rather than handing your manuscript off to different specialists at each phase, you work with one editor who understands your argument, your voice, and your goals from start to finish.
My background combines doctoral training at Arizona State University with professional certification in Editing and Publishing from the University of Chicago. I've worked on manuscripts spanning Latin American politics, urban studies, criminology, social movements, and American literature. I bring that range to every project.
If you're looking for an editorial partner who will invest in your work as deeply as you have, I'd love to hear about your project.
Ready to discuss your manuscript? Tell me about your project.
Prefer email? Reach me at riohartwell@gmail.com