Hi, I’m Jess Macy.

I’m a writer, runner, cat friend, and book lover. (Because of course I am!) A KC native, I floated about for years before settling myself in Chicago—a place I should’ve been all along!

You can probably find me wandering along Lake Michigan, fussing over my plant window, planning my next TTRPG session, binge watching cultural deep-dive video essays on YouTube, trying to decide if I should log like, my 300th hour in Stardew Valley or play a new RPG, or arranging and rearranging my bookshelves.

And, if none of the above, I’m serving my two cats, Persephone and Loki Bean, or battling my dog, Booker DePitt, on the sidewalk. (He likes to stop and smell everything.)

Am I the Right One for You?

I have five years’ experience in the publishing industry, during which I read and evaluated thousands of queries and manuscripts. I specialize in editorial development, having worked with dozens and dozens of writers at various stages of their publishing career whether pulled fresh from the query pile or midway through developing their follow-up book in a 2-book publishing deal. 

I hold an MFA in Writing and Publishing and a second master’s in literature with an emphasis in creative writing. Prior to working in the industry, I taught writing classes at the collegiate level while pursuing my degrees. I have a deep love for writers no matter where they are in the writing trenches.

What I’m Best Suited For

I’ve worked across genre boundaries from high fantasy to contemporary romance. My most recent projects include gothic horror, upmarket speculative, YA contemporary, and prescriptive nonfiction. 

I’ve also worked across age ranges, so please consider me for your MG, YA, and PB projects. I’m also able to work with you on your nonfiction proposal or memoir. 

I’m not the best fit for military fiction, as I am not familiar enough with the parameters.