What is a jonquil?

Jonquils are a kind of daffodil, a little smaller, with flat petals. Native to Portugal and Spain, they’re members of the Narcissus family, and they bloom at the end of winter, marking the earliest days of spring. They’re a symbol of creativity, success, and renewal.

What does that have to do with your company?

When I moved to my home, I planted fifty daffodils and jonquils in the yard. What I didn’t know was that the bulbs would split and double each year. When I started the business, I wanted a sense that it would boom—doubling in blooms each year. And I’ve been lucky to work with many returning clients whose books increase in number and ambition.

Though they’re best known as flowers that show luck and friendship, jonquils were also associated with the underworld in Greek mythology. They can be given as a sign of support in difficult times. I’ve worked with authors who have tackled subjects related to grief, trauma, and other nuanced subjects. I’ve also worked with retirees who are finally writing the novel they always dreamed of. It’s a healthy mix.

You wrote “fifty” in Chicago Style. Do you also know AP Style?

Yes. I copyedited Kenyon Review Online for about five years, following the Chicago Manual of Style. This is the style followed by most book publishers. I’ve spent more than two years working with a major media brand that follows AP Style. If you’re working on a book or article that’s nonfiction, I’m happy to work with you.

Do you work with first-time authors?

So glad you asked. Yes! Debut authors were my specialty when I worked at bigger presses, and I was delighted to work with first-time authors when I was fiction editor at a literary magazine. If you’re wondering where to start, I’d love to hear from you.