About Book Genie
Meet the Team.
Jeanne edits. Michael does tech. Get to know us!
Jeanne De Vita
Editor, instructor, writer
I started my professional career handling toxic tort and medical liability litigation, but transitioned into my dream job in 2011 when I was hired by a large digital publisher to acquire and edit romance novels. I was quickly promoted to the managing editor role where I hired and trained editorial staff and interns, worked on projects from acquisition to distribution, and edited hundreds of books across multiple genres. I have since worked as a contract acquisitions editor for three other traditional publishers.
I wrote for Radish two years (RIP, Radish!) on their highest performing Radish Original series and have ghostwritten fifteen books of fiction and nonfiction, including two USA Today bestsellers. I have self-published fiction across several genres, including horror and romantasy.
My mother was a traditionally published author despite not having a college degree and never taking a writing course. Mom analyzed how good books are made by tearing them apart, dissecting them, and constantly improving her process, even long after she had a successful career, and I try to bring Mom's work ethic (now my own!) to every project and every obstacle.
Diversity, inclusion, and respect for all people are core values that guide my professional ethics and my personal communications.
When I'm not reading, I can be found exploring Los Angeles with my family, playing Magic the Gathering, rewatching my favorite streaming shows (like Vox Machina, Critical Role, and The Walking Dead), or (badly) playing video games. Book Genie is a play on words that works on two levels: my name is pronounced gee-knee like genie in a bottle, and I like to think of myself as a true book genie, helping turn authors wishes into books.
When I'm not reading, I can be found exploring Los Angeles with my family, playing Magic the Gathering, rewatching my favorite streaming shows (like Vox Machina, Critical Role, and The Walking Dead), or (badly) playing video games. Book Genie is a play on words that works on two levels: my name is pronounced gee-knee like genie in a bottle, and I like to think of myself as a true book genie, helping turn authors wishes into books.
Jeanne has an MFA in Creative Writing-Fiction from the University of Notre Dame and a BA in English Literature from Iowa State University.
Michael Lee
Websites, hosting & marketing
Michael builds author websites, keeping them fast and safe, and runs the launches. He’s the one who answers when something breaks at 11 p.m. before release day.
As an all-around tech guru, Michael helps creative artists and authors overcome the fear, stress, and anxiety that is so common when confronted with all the work that goes into an author's business.
Michael believes branding and user experience are not just items to check off a writer's to-do list; they are opportunities to impact every customer in a positive way by creating connection and stimulating engagement. Whether he's building an online store, designing a website, or explaining how to post a Reel to Instagram, Michael shares his technical expertise with authors so they feel empowered and informed.
Michael managed successful author marketing strategy and ad campaigns for Kindle Vella authors from 2021-2023 and loves demystifying ad campaigns and setup across social media and retail platforms. He has built databases and forums for private groups, designed and consulted on online school platforms, and edited video podcasts for writers and clients in the wellness space.
After moving to Los Angeles just in time for the COVID lockdown, Michael shares his home with a spoiled German Shepherd, a cluttered desk, and lots of wires, cables, and computer parts.
When he's offline, Michael plays Magic the Gathering (with Jeanne), watches streaming shows (like Vox Machina, Critical Role, and The Walking Dead), or keeping Jeanne from getting lost/having to respawn in video games.
As an all-around tech guru, Michael helps creative artists and authors overcome the fear, stress, and anxiety that is so common when confronted with all the work that goes into an author's business.
Michael believes branding and user experience are not just items to check off a writer's to-do list; they are opportunities to impact every customer in a positive way by creating connection and stimulating engagement. Whether he's building an online store, designing a website, or explaining how to post a Reel to Instagram, Michael shares his technical expertise with authors so they feel empowered and informed.
Michael managed successful author marketing strategy and ad campaigns for Kindle Vella authors from 2021-2023 and loves demystifying ad campaigns and setup across social media and retail platforms. He has built databases and forums for private groups, designed and consulted on online school platforms, and edited video podcasts for writers and clients in the wellness space.
After moving to Los Angeles just in time for the COVID lockdown, Michael shares his home with a spoiled German Shepherd, a cluttered desk, and lots of wires, cables, and computer parts.
When he's offline, Michael plays Magic the Gathering (with Jeanne), watches streaming shows (like Vox Machina, Critical Role, and The Walking Dead), or keeping Jeanne from getting lost/having to respawn in video games.
Why adult projects only
Because genre expectations are specific and readers notice when they’re missed, we only work on projects that are intended for readers over the age of 18. We do not have expertise in Young Adult, Middle Grade, Children's Books, or Picture Books, so if you're looking for editorial support in these areas, Jeanne will not be the right match.
Since so much of Jeanne's past work is protected by NDA, we share what we know we can produce with confidence. When we're the wrong team for the project, saying so up front and honestly costs less and builds trust and the reputation that has earned us referrals and return clients book after book.
How we work
- You always deal with Jeanne or Michael directly.
- Prices are published; no quote is a surprise.
- A sample edit or design concept is delivered before the service is billed.
- If the cheaper option is right, we say so. We save time on our schedule and treat your resources the way we expect ours to be treated: with respect. Come back if you need more, but we will not bloat your bill.
- We never promise sales, reviews, or a publishing outcome.
The company, in numbers
15
years working with authors
hundreds
of authors served
600 and counting
writers on the newsletter
2
people you’ll ever work with
Tell us what you’re working on.
Two minutes, and a written scope and price within two business days.