I don’t mind reading romance. I’m even okay with historical romance. I’m fine reviewing these as I understand what my fellow-readers expect.
Don’t ask me to edit them.
Family sagas. Women Lit. Something must really grab me to read these.
Edit? As part of a team, sure.
In my opinion, an editor should be comfortable and love the genre they are about to edit. If you don’t like horror; stay away. Can’t take erotic; stay away. Prefer fantasy over SF; stay away from SF.
As a reader we know what to expect from our genre choices. This plays directly into our editing. I may not believe in the thought process of writing: writing what I know – never met a were-creature or murdered anyone – but I believe firmly in editing what you know. Editing is dependent on your experience with the genre. Yes, there’s story flow understanding. Yes, there’s common sense to see simple goofs. Yes, writing rules and house styles need following.
There’s more to understanding the editing process and even being at ease with the genre. You need a feel for the genre’s world and its possibilities.
Take romance standards, the main reason I don’t mix is I get fed up with the back and forth of “loves me” “doesn’t love me” “loves me” “lied to me” “____” “____” “does love me.” Happily ever after.
However, this is part of the standard romance story flow. Readers expect a certain pattern. If you don’t recognize this or start to rework it to fit your idea you’re taking away from the genre. Possibly even setting the author up for negative reviews, let alone an awkward working relationship.
Editing is a major part of the finished manuscript. The author has slaved over their story. They both – author and manuscript – deserve that best you can give. Knowing and being comfortable with their genre is the first step.