Hi, writers - Yoanna here!

I have always been in love with storytelling and literature, which led me to an MA in English and Creative Writing, multiple editorial qualifications, starting my freelance journey, exploring my own writing, a placement with Penguin Random House, and now here.  

My story

2005-2012
I learned how to read when I was five because I decided quickly that one bedtime story was not going to cut it. Soon after, I started writing my own stories and attempts at novels (those still make me grin).
An old notebook spread of two children drawings and text writen under them
2017-2018
I’ve always known that English was the language I wanted to write in and work with, so in my last years in highschool, I gave both my Saturdays and Sundays to 6-8h of additional English lessons...
Photo of a girl holding an Advanced English CAE certificate

...and passed both the Cambridge Advanced (2017) and Cambridge Proficiency (2018) exams, making sure my English was at a native-level.

August 2019
Moved 3386 km away from home to study an MA in English and Creative writing in Dundee, Scotland (one of the best decisions) and fell in love with literature even more.

(3386 km = 2105 miles)

Polaroid-like photos of memories with Dundee
March 2021
In the midst of Covid, in-between two online lectures, I thought “why not give beta reading a try,” and thus, started my freelance journey (I will never forget the euphoria of my first order).
Webpage inside of Fiverr
April 2022
I quickly realised that what I was doing was actually more akin to editorial assessment, so I started learning more about being an editor and started my qualification journey with the Publishing Training Center.
2022-2024
Throughout the years, I volunteered and attended all industry events I could think of, as well as writing workshops and summits.
Polaroid-like photos of memories of Stanza festival
June 2023
Graduated university with a 1st class honours degree and an A on my dissertation.

(after weeks of having anxiety-induced library sessions, working on it, and snacking on gluten free cookies)

Polaroid-like photos of graduating and holding a dissertation
February 2024
I was incredibly fortunate to get a placement with the editorial team at Penguin Random House UK under Viking (Penguin General), which taught me a lot about working in-house, acquisitions, the various departments and stages, and so much more.
Polaroid-like photos of memories at Penguin House
March 2024
I quit my other full time job and devoted my time, effort, and energy to developing this business and being there for the incredible authors I get to work with.

(yes, for a year an a haIf I thought that having 2 full time jobs and a side hustle was very humanly possible)

February 2025
📓 bookish with yo launches
And here we are now!
Bookish with Yo Mascot icon showing a note with writing

My editing & coaching philosophy

Yes, I will fight for those Oxford commas. Yes, I will be the cliché police (let’s keep the "beacons of" and "transformative journeys" to a minimum, please). But more than anything, I believe that every writer deserves thoughtful, honest, and constructive feedback that helps them grow—without losing their voice in the process.

My approach is all about balance: tough love where needed, encouragement when it counts, and a clear path forward so you always know your next step. Whether you're just starting out, knee-deep in revisions, or preparing to publish, I’m here to help you shape your story, sharpen your skills, and navigate the publishing world with confidence.

Let’s turn your book into something readers won’t want to put down.

Wondering if we would be agood working fit?