Your Novel Deserves An Editor Who’s All In.

Hi there. I'm Jaida Temperly, former New York literary agent and founder of Temperly Editorial. For 15+ years, I've helped fiction writers untangle their plots, deepen their characters, and shape their manuscripts into polished novels. Whether you're just starting your publishing journey or deep in revisions, I'm here to help you do your best work.

“I came to rely on Jaida’s open enthusiasm, gentle diplomacy, and readiness to brainstorm and problem-solve. She gave me an unfailing sense of being supported through the thorny process of finding my path through the weeds in my manuscripts.”

— Elly Blake, New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling fantasy author

WHAT I Edit

Every story is different, and that's what I love about this work. I edit fiction across a wide range of categories and genres, but I'm especially drawn to books with rich world-building, memorable characters, and voices that pull you in from page one. I typically work on:

• Fiction Categories: Adult, Young Adult, Middle Grade

• Genres: Fantasy, SciFi, Romance, Mystery, Horror, Speculative, Historical, Dystopian, Thriller

Not sure if your project fits? Reach out anyway. I love being surprised.

What I help You Do

I work with authors at every stage of the process. Here's how I can help:

✔ Get Unstuck. You know something isn't working, but you can't figure it out. I’ll pinpoint exactly what's working in your manuscript—and what’s holding you back—and how to fix it.

✔ Get Submission or Publisher Ready. From developmental editing to submission preparation, I’ll help you put your best pages forward—whether you're approaching agents or already working with a publisher.

✔ Strengthen Your Craft. The edits aren't just about this book. You'll walk away a stronger writer, with tools, strategies, and insights you can apply to every project that follows.

✔ Keep Moving Forward. I don't disappear after the edit. I'm here to answer questions, talk through problems, and help you take next steps.

“Jaida is an amazing editor who knows the publishing industry very well. Her editorial letters to me were always thorough and allowed me to think about my characters, plots, and themes in new ways. Her line edits helped me to develop my voice in a way that emphasized my stories’ themes and my characters’ inner-truths at the micro-level.”

— Fiadhnait Moser, author of 'The Flourishing of Floralie Laurel' and 'The Serendipity of Flightless Things'

“Jaida is a phenomenal editor and mentor. Not only did she guide me through some particularly challenging publishing circumstances, she helped me develop / bring to market The Grace Year, which went on to become a New York Times and international best seller. I trust her implicitly. Her taste level is beyond reproach, and her love for story shines through in everything she touches.”

— Kim Liggett, New York Times and internationally bestselling author