Trusted by these and other publishers (and dozens of self-published authors)
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Dan Tortora is simply the best. Just hire him.
Brilliant. Wise. Deep. Smart. Knowledgeable. Dependable. And a joy to spend time with.
He worked with me through two award-winning books that I could never have finished without him.
I can’t imagine writing my next book without his help, expertise, and knowledge.
His wise, dependable guidance is a special gift.
—Samantha Shad, author of Write Through the Crisis and The Write to Happiness
Next-Level Editing and Strategic Coaching for Nonfiction Authors
You wrote a nonfiction book to guide a transformation, spark a conversation, or simply to inform and inspire your readers.
You've done the work, run the searches, and leaned on the “friend who was an English major.”
Now you need more:
A professional editor to optimize structure, sharpen flow, and polish the fine details into a publish-ready gem, and/or an experienced book coach/strategist to guide you through the publishing process and beyond.
I combine academic precision, Pulitzer‑trained editorial standards, and practical launch know‑how to refine your ideas, sharpen your voice, and position your book to win readers, reviews, and opportunities.
Time to bring in the editorial and strategic support that gets books noticed.
Hi, I’m Daniel Tortora, editor, book coach, and publishing strategist.
For over a decade, I’ve helped writers refine, elevate, and publish nonfiction books that matter.
I’ve edited over 13 million words, coached well over 200 authors, and written 120+ articles on writing, publishing, and book marketing.
I provide the attention to detail, analytical depth, thoughtful preparation, and genuine enthusiasm necessary to turn decent drafts into high-impact nonfiction books.
I started down this path as a broke PhD student who trained under a Pulitzer Prize-winner, and after writing a highly acclaimed book that now lives in 1,200 libraries. I no longer survive on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and bananas (yuck), but I know what makes great nonfiction.
Strategic wins for my clients:
Major press: Glowing reviews in The Wall Street Journal.
Top rankings: Multiple #1 New Release tags on Amazon.
Rapid reader response: 200+ Amazon reviews within two weeks of launch.
Media features: Appearances in documentaries, podcasts, and live media.
Professional ROI: Books used to secure paid speaking engagements and new career opportunities.
Proven Longevity: Authors returning for successful second, third, and fourth books.
My approach is practical, efficient, and encouraging—ensuring that your manuscript and your publishing approach exceed industry standards and opens professional doors.
Let’s make your book the one readers can’t put down, a book you can be proud of.
Working with Daniel turned my panic about the publishing process into pure excitement!
If you want someone who is patient and incredibly knowledgeable, I highly recommend Daniel!
—Claudia Stavola, stand-up comedian and author of 100 Things to Hate Before You Die
🎯Best Match
Genres: Self-Help and Personal Growth; Relationships; Dating Advice; Alternative Wellness and Spirituality; American History, Biography, Politics, Sports, and Pop Culture; Humor and Satire. Also a possible fit: Leadership; Geology; Social Issues; Reference Books.
Authors I work with: I work with US-based subject matter experts, coaches, therapists, creatives, comedians, historians, and academics writing for general audiences. I especially enjoy working with millennials and first-time authors and referrals from publishers and other authors.
Ideal fit:
- American nonfiction authors seeking an experienced, efficient, and uplifting editor or book coach to level up their manuscript🚀
- Books for general readers that are under 100,000 words✨
- Authors who care about craft and discoverability, are open to feedback, and are ready to invest in the polish and strategy that goes into an impressive, visible, and influential book📝
Your next chapter begins now.⬇️
Nonfiction Book Editing and Coaching Services
From first draft to publish-ready
Professional copy editing and line editing (and developmental editing for select genres).
From manuscript to market
Expert guidance so you can publish faster, smarter, and more confidently.
Courses, templates, and checklists
DIY options that will prepare you to publish successfully and sell more books.
Dan is an outstanding editor.
Dan doesn’t just read your material, he thinks about it. He cares about it. He checks sources, he fixes grammar, and he considers how the reader will react. He gives direction, while still respecting the author’s vision. . . . He gets to the point, elicits your input, provides direction, and does so efficiently.
I will absolutely be working with him again.
—Stuart Teicher, author of The Crash and Burn of a Superlawyer: The Downfall of F. Lee Bailey
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Write, publish, and market your book—smarter.
Get helpful how-tos and resources for US authors on writing, publishing, and selling great nonfiction books.
Learn more about Colonial and Revolutionary Era
Southern history.
Get my occasional insights, research updates, book roundups and reviews, and more.
Award-winning books in early American
and Native American history by Daniel J. Tortora
Explore the dramatic conflict that transformed the people, politics, and culture of South Carolina on the eve of the Revolutionary War.
George C. Rogers Jr. Award Winner
Discover the exciting history of Maine’s iconic frontier fort. Learn about its evolving role, its famous visitors, and the locals who’ve saved it.
Kennebec Historical Society Book Club Selection