The Person Behind the Press
I’m Mariel Leister, an editor and the founder of AlònTala Publishing. I built my own press because I believe in the power of the independent voice—and because I believe that while a story starts with the author, a book is rarely the work of just one person.
Quality literature should be accessible, and professional editing is the bridge between a raw draft and a resilient book. My mission is to help writers ensure their work meets the highest possible standard, treating every manuscript I edit with the same rigor I apply to the books I publish under my own house.
The Approach
My brain works in patterns. I approach a manuscript with a focus on logic, psychology, and structural integrity. I don’t just look for typos; I look for the load-bearing elements of your story.
If your protagonist is a specialist but fumbles their expertise, I’m going to question the inconsistency until the character’s actions are unquestionable. I believe a story must earn its moments. Whether it’s a mystery with a payoff that needs to fit like a satisfying Tetris piece or a romance that needs to be psychologically grounded, I am here to ensure the pieces truly click.
I treat every manuscript I edit with the same standard I apply to the books I publish under my own press. We break the logic down so we can rebuild it into something that can hold its own weight.
Quick Facts
When I’m not deep-diving into manuscript logic at my desk in Nueva Ecija, you can usually find me:
- Walking my Golden Retriever, Daiki.
- Observing the social dynamics of my budgies, Pandan and Taro.
- Taking a horizontal Saturday to decompress with Stardew Valley challenges or a Gab Smolders playthrough.