Testimonials about Jeff's Editorial Services from Published Novelists

Jeff Gerke edited two of my novels and was very easy to work with, professional, and offered many creative and insightful ideas to make the book better. One of these books, Time Lottery, won the Christy Award for best fiction in its genre. It would not have been an award-winning book without Jeff’s help.

—Nancy Moser, Author of Time Lottery

I’ve had the privilege of working with Jeff through three novels in the past few years, and each time has been a fantastic experience. His editorial insights into each book’s weaknesses have been dead-on, and resulted in much stronger books. He has been a joy to work with, easing the pain of rewrites with creative suggestions and a sense of humor. Through the revision process with Jeff I have always felt respected and heard, and knew that his goal matched mine—to create the best book we could.

—T.L. Higley, Author of Fallen from Babel   

I worked with Jeff on my second novel, which was a complex historical fiction. I was a bit lost when I turned it in—I knew it needed polishing but wasn’t sure where to start. He was able to encourage me even as he explained the shortcomings in the manuscript. He coordinated with another editor to make sure I got all the support, insight and tools I needed. His advice was spot-on, and his positive attitude made me want to work harder.  I’ve relied on his wisdom many times, and found his experience on both sides of the publishing business to be an incredible asset. Jeff has always been a selfless encourager, professional, upbeat, humble, and an important asset to  my team. I envy the next writer who gets to work with him.

—Ginger Garrett, ECPA Christian Book Award Finalist, Author of Dark Hour   

In the five years I’ve known him, Jeff Gerke has proven himself to be a man of vision who’s called to promote excellence in Christian fiction. Jeff has a heart for discovering and encouraging new writers, and a passion for coming up with new avenues through which we can share stories rooted in the greatest story ever told. 

—Angela Hunt, Author of The Immortal   

In my professional relationship with Jeff Gerke, I found him an enjoyable yet demanding editor with great insight into storytelling and character development. Undergirding it all was his faith and commitment to our Lord Jesus Christ. I look forward to working with him again.

—Miles Owens, Daughter of Prophecy   

Jeff Gerke made the recent process of editing my fourth novel nearly painless. His professionalism and expert guidance helped give my work the clean, sharp edge I was looking for. Jeff’s observations were spot-on, and his communication style was clear and helpful. When Jeff and I differed on how a passage should be edited, we were able to come to a comfortable compromise—every single time. I appreciate his willingness to listen to my concerns and his helpfulness in the navigation of touchy passages. Jeff deserves great credit for the success of my latest release.

—Annette Smith , Author of A Bigger Life   

I worked with Jeff on my first published novel The Personifid Project. He helped me to increase the manu-script from what was essentially an over-long novella to a full length novel, in part by throwing ideas at me that helped my creativity. He was great at pointing out the weaknesses in my writing (while also giving plenty of encouragement for the good stuff!) with straightforward communication that enabled me to better myself as a writer. I learned a lot in that time of editing with him that  I continue to use in my other works. Jeff’s sense of humor and his professionalism made him a pleasure to work with.

—R.E. Bartlett, Author of The Personifid Project   

Jeff Gerke is a great editor. Anyone working with him would benefit considerably from his expertise.

—Janet Benrey, Author and Literary Agent   

Years ago, I dreamed of being a published novelist. Thanks to Jeff Gerke's editorial insight, I now have six novels in print and more on the way. Jeff has seen the publishing industry from all sides, so he understands what it takes for a writer to sharpen craft and get past the slush pile. He doesn't pull punches. He tells it like it is. Most important, he has a knack for knowing which tool an individual author needs to take it to the next level. I know—because he did that for me!