Katie Reed – Editor

Winter Special: Add a query letter edit to any full manuscript edit for just $100 (normal rate is $175).

I'm a literary agent and developmental editor with extensive experience working with bestselling and award winning authors, seasoned writers looking to elevate their manuscripts, and debut authors who seek to learn more about the art of storytelling while obtaining insight into their work.

I have a BA in English Literature from California State University, Sacramento. For the last 12 years I have worked as a freelance developmental editor, publishing consultant, book coach, and executive literary agent for Andrea Hurst and Associates, helping my clients polish their manuscripts for pitching and publication. I am a regular speaker and instructor at writers conferences and have taught master classes across the country. With over 25 years in the industry, our agency represents bestselling, award winning, and debut authors and partners with major U.S. and international publishers to bring outstanding books into the hands of readers everywhere.

My experience as a literary agent allows me to also review a manuscript from a submissions perspective as I know what agents want (and what they don't want). I'm passionate about providing insightful, comprehensive edits delivered in a positive and constructive manner, while preserving the author's voice and vision. I want authors to walk away from a collaboration feeling encouraged and inspired to begin revisions, confident that, with my edits as a guide, they have a clear direction for their project. Most importantly, my goal is to ensure that authors feel like the story they want to tell shines on the page to captivate readers from the first line.

Testimonials:

"In an editor, I look for someone well-read, skilled, and talented, but even more than that, someone whose suggestions and vision I can trust. Katie ticks all the boxes and more, and I'm a lucky guy to have her leveling up my books."

— Boo Walker, bestselling author of An Echo in Time

“Katie combines a deep understanding of story with a seasoned editor’s knowledge and insight to provide invaluable feedback for your work. She excels in the areas of overall structure, characterization, pacing, and achieving a page turning plot. With her positive and encouraging attitude, knowledge of the publishing market, and professional expertise, I highly recommend her at any stage of your editorial journey.”

-Andrea Hurst, Literary Agent and Author of The Guestbook

Katie is a detailed editor with deep, underlying insights that help take the story to the next level. Katie truly cares about her clients; her responsiveness and availability prove that time and time again. I hope this is the first year of many we have on this journey together."

- Cherisa "C. I." Jerez, author of At the Island's Edge (Lake Union, coming 2025)

"A literary fairy godmother."

-Isabel Valenta, happy Reedsy client