Chris Fortunato

Chris Fortunato – Editor

Having been a managing editor at Bantam, I now work freelance for publishers such as Kensington and Hachette.

Overview

During the 1990s, I was managing editor at Bantam Books, in charge of editorial production for all hardcover books. During the early 2000s, I production packaged books for Doubleday and Broadway. Currently, I copy edit for Hachette and for Kensington. My book of psychological thriller stories, Deadly Guests, has recently been published by Close to the Bone, a small UK publisher. It is available on Amazon.

I help authors achieve historical accuracy and write clear, concise prose. I query where necessary and, where I can, suggest solutions to problems.

Having worked at highly charged commercial publishers, and having copy edited many Westerns, cozies, and hard-edged thrillers, I especially understand commercial genre fiction. I am able to help writers bring their stories into sharper focus.

Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Thriller & Suspense
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Bantam Books

Jan, 1990 — Dec, 1995 (almost 6 years)
As managing editor, I was in charge of the editorial production of the entire hardcover list.

Self-employed

Feb, 2000 — Present
Currently I copy edit for HarperCollins and Kensington. I work on both nonfiction and fiction (mostly thrillers and Westerns).

Chris has 3 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Edward W.

Edward W.

Aug, 2025

Pinned
Chris Fortunato fixed all my mistakes. His suggestions are of great value, I highly recommend him.
Roger J Lown Jr W.

Roger J Lown Jr W.

Apr, 2026

I appreciate Chris professionalism and honesty. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with his work. I would definitely refer Chris to anyone I know who on their writing project.
Studio K.

Studio K.

Aug, 2025

Working with Chris was a breeze. Very quick to response and delivered edits in a timely manner. Thanks!

Professionals similar to Chris

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David Larkin

David L.

A diligent, conscientious editor who enjoys helping writers develop their voice and getting the words right.

Beaufort, SC, USA

100% reply rate

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Ian Harper

Ian H.

I’m drawn to cinematic action/adventure thrillers. If your pitch sounds like an Indiana Jones movie, then I’d love to hear from you!

Wilmington, NC, USA

100% reply rate

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David Fulk

David F.

I have many years of experience as a developmental editor, copy editor, and proofreader in a variety of book genres.

Thousand Oaks, CA, USA

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