It’s time to feel confident in your story
I became a developmental book editor to help you do just that!
HI, I’M ALYSSA MATESIC
Uh-lyss-uh Muh-tess-ick
I’m passionate about helping you make a powerful and lasting impact through storytelling.
I’ve worked with book writers at all stages of their careers — from first-time novelists to New York Times bestselling authors. Believe me when I say, I’ve seen it all! No matter what stage of your book writing journey you’re at, I’m here to guide you through the challenges and celebrate the triumphs!
How my story started…
My editorial journey began in high school, when I became Editor in Chief of my school’s newspaper and realized editing was my true passion. After graduating summa cum laude from New York University with a BA in English and American Literature, a minor in Creative Writing, and a Certificate in Book Publishing, I went on to work in the traditional book publishing industry. My time at major publishing houses and a top-tier literary agency gave me direct access to bestselling authors and high-profile publishing professionals.
With nearly a decade of industry experience, I’ve evaluated and edited hundreds of novels, and I’ve seen what top-notch book publishing looks like at its highest level.
Take a peek at my editorial roles:
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At Ballantine Books (an imprint of Penguin Random House), I worked under two Editorial Directors, evaluating manuscripts by New York Times bestselling authors of suspense and women’s fiction, as well as independently editing novels for publishing.
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At Henry Holt and Company (an imprint of Macmillan), I reviewed submissions from literary agents for senior-level editors and assessed works of literary fiction and narrative nonfiction under contract prior to publication.
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At The Book Group literary agency, I managed the submissions inbox for two partner-level agents, which required reviewing hundreds of query letters from aspiring authors. I also assessed the agents’ clients’ manuscripts before they were submitted to editors at Big Five publishing houses.
One day back in 2019, I attended the launch day reading for an author whose debut novel I worked on at Random House.
As I sat in the back row of the bookstore event space, I reflected on how I was one of the first people to read her manuscript — and how I devoured it in a single night after we received the submission from her literary agent. I was amazed at how it progressed from a Word document draft to a beautiful, tangible book. Seeing her read from the published copy in her hand recalled everything I loved so deeply about the story, and what was even better was seeing the audience’s enraptured faces. When she finished reading the excerpt, applause erupted, and she had the biggest smile on her face. That was the moment I thought, I want to help more writers feel this way.
Do you ever feel like traditional book publishing is an unachievable goal?
Well, you’re not alone. So many writers feel this way, so much so that some give up on their dreams altogether. The industry can feel opaque and exclusive to writers who don’t have insider knowledge, or who aren’t based in New York City or London. I‘m on a mission to change that.
Or, are you concerned about people judging you for self-publishing?
If you’re a self-published author, it’s time to free yourself of any stigmas associated with self-publishing — you can produce a work that’s on-par with traditionally published books.
If there’s one thing you take away from reading my story, let it be this:
Your story is worth telling, and it is absolutely possible for you to see your book on the shelves next to your favorite author.
Fun Facts
CLIENT
SUCCESS
STORIES
Alyssa is truly a writer’s editor. I’ve used other developmental editors before, and none hold a candle to her. From the first moment we chatted, I knew Alyssa was the editor for me. She didn’t mold my manuscript into her vision. She enhanced my own vision for the work.
Her manuscript assessments are thorough. When a sticky plot point arose, Alyssa always helped me iron out the issue until I was pleased with the final outcome. Alyssa gives thorough and honest feedback—a must for any writer looking to make their manuscript shine.
—Amy Boyles, author of the Sweet Tea Witch Mysteries
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