Katrina Diaz Arnold - Editor
Experienced developmental and line editor, formerly of a Big Five publisher, who loves helping authors refine their work into its best self.
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Overview
Katrina is an editor and writer with more than eight years of professional publishing experience. She is an experienced developmental editor--both assessment and line--who loves nothing more than helping an aspiring author refine their work into the best, most vibrant version of itself.
She was previously part of the editorial team at Scribner, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, where she worked with numerous New York Times bestselling authors, before deciding to become a freelancer and an entrepreneur. Katrina now owns and runs her own editorial services company, bringing quality editing straight to aspiring and established authors alike.
Katrina specializes in a variety of genre fiction, mostly in the adult category, but edits some select young adult/new adult fiction, as well. In particular, she loves editing works of Fantasy, Romance, Thriller, and Dystopian Fiction.
Passionate about books her entire life, Katrina has a BA in Creative Writing from Northwestern University and a MA in Shakespeare from University College London.
She was previously part of the editorial team at Scribner, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, where she worked with numerous New York Times bestselling authors, before deciding to become a freelancer and an entrepreneur. Katrina now owns and runs her own editorial services company, bringing quality editing straight to aspiring and established authors alike.
Katrina specializes in a variety of genre fiction, mostly in the adult category, but edits some select young adult/new adult fiction, as well. In particular, she loves editing works of Fantasy, Romance, Thriller, and Dystopian Fiction.
Passionate about books her entire life, Katrina has a BA in Creative Writing from Northwestern University and a MA in Shakespeare from University College London.
Languages
English (UK)
English (US)
Fiction
Dystopian
Fantasy
Mystery & Crime
Paranormal Romance
Romance
Thriller & Suspense
Young Adult
Certifications
- Northwestern University: BA in English in Creative Writing
- University College London: MA in Shakespeare
Work experience
Owner & Lead Editor
Self-employed
July, 2013
–
Present
(almost 7 years)
- Manages a team of independent contractors to complete various edits on manuscripts prior to publication
- Personally specializes in developmental and line editing, editing manuscripts for big picture concerns like plot arc, character development, structure, pacing, believability, clarity, and writing style
- Refines and strengthens manuscripts through extensive editorial assessments and in-depth line edits
- Oversees copy edits and proofreads on manuscripts
- Edits query letters, synopses, jacket copy, book descriptions, and more
- Coaches writers through every step of the editorial process and on overall
submission strategy or book publication
- Runs all company business strategy and administration, including master scheduling
Editorial Assistant
Scribner, Simon and Schuster
June, 2013
–
September, 2015
(over 2 years)
- Edited New York Times bestselling and award-winning nonfiction and fiction books for structure, voice, and use of language by completing developmental, line, and copy edits
- Wrote promotional copy, book copy, sales tip sheets, editorial letters, and more
- Evaluated submissions for publication potential and researches competitive titles
- Communicated with writers and agents on a daily basis as the first response to all requests
- Managed projects from the onset through to publication, organized publication master schedules, monitored deadlines, payments, and contracts
- Strategically solved urgent issues for an average of 20+ projects at any given time
- Created original, promotional and/or shareable content for Twitter and Instagram
- Supervised minute-taking for editorial meetings and trained all new editorial assistants
Freelance Editor
Self Employed
January, 2013
–
June, 2013
(5 months)
- Consulted collegiate and postgraduate applicants on personal statements and essays
- Wrote marketing copy, brochure copy, and website content for small businesses
- Edited manuscripts through developmental edits
Editorial Associate
Thomson Reuters
July, 2012
–
September, 2012
(2 months)
- Proofread, copyedited, and completed multiple proof checks using BSI Proofing Symbols for legal loose-leaf and book manuscripts from initial copy to the final press proof
- Wrote filing instructions, edited checklists, and prepped texts for e-book transitioning
Publicity and Marketing Assistant
Chalke Authors/Endeavour Press
November, 2011
–
July, 2012
(8 months)
- Copyedited, proofread, and formatted novellas and nonfiction essays for e-book publication
- Wrote press releases, inquiry letters, and interview questions
- Brainstormed, researched, and implemented two to four publicity campaigns per month
Editorial Intern
Browne and Miller Literary Associates
March, 2011
–
June, 2011
(3 months)
- Reviewed several manuscripts per week and wrote reader's reports
- Managed and responded to all office email and letter queries
- Assembled potential proposals for evaluation every two weeks
Portfolio (29 selected works)
Dark Wine at Midnight (A Hill Vampire Novel Book 1)
Jenna Barwin
Dr. Cerissa Patel is a scientist, not a secret agent. But when the Lux order her to spy on the vampires she's trying to help, she has no choice, not with the fate of humanity on the line.Her cover story seems easy enough: become a vampire's envoy, visit the secret vampire communities, and sign-up investors to finance her biotech research lab. At least, it looks easy until an assassination atte... read more
SHE IS PLAYING A DANGEROUS GAME…When Lady Josephine accepts a wager to lure a kiss from the most scandalous and depraved rake in England, she thought it an easy enough task. But one glimpse at the man in question and she foresees her reputation going up in glorious flames. It will not stop her from winning the wager, however, not even the vexing Marquis of St. Aldwyn, who is determined to stay... read more
The Last Nazi (A Joe Johnson Thriller, Book 1)
Andrew Turpin
The buried contents of a Nazi train. An aging SS killer—with a final sting in his tail. And the World War II secrets of a US presidential hopeful’s Jewish family, hidden in London for 70 years.In this epic story of revenge and justice with its roots in one of history's darkest hours, war crimes investigator and ex-CIA officer Joe Johnson uncovers links between the financing for the presidentia... read more
Until I Met Her (Emma Fern Book 1)
Natalie Barelli
She should never have said ‘yes’…When Beatrice said she wanted to publish her next novel under Emma’s name, Emma couldn’t believe it. Why on earth would Beatrice Johnson Greene, the famous crime writer, not want to publish her new book as herself?This time, Beatrice explained, she wanted to write something different, and publish it as an unknown author. She was too famous—and she needed Emma’s... read more
Between the Shade and the Shadow
Coleman Alexander
In the deep heart of the forest, there are places where no light ever shines, where darkness is folded by pale hands and jewel-bright eyes, where the world is ruled by the wicked and kept by the wraiths. This is where the Sprites of the Sihl live. But Sprites are not born, they are made. On the path to Spritehood, spritelings must first become shades. They do so by binding a shadow: a woodland... read more
Crimson River (Civilands Book 1)
N.B. Austin
A new fight for power and control begins now in the Murrieta Territory. Whose side will you take?** 2016-2017 BooksGoSocial Daily Book of the Year Award Finalist **Jeannie Morrell is on the run. Chasing behind her is the expanding Keagan gang that just burned her home to the ground. Before her--through the forest of the Riverlands--is the native V'ahani clan and the grizzlies they control.With... read more
The Crewmember
Marsha Volgyi
When twenty-four-year-old Lana Kramer accepts a six-month crewmember contract to perform as a dancer on a cruise ship, the experience is far from anything she could have imagined. The surreal vibe of being trapped between two worlds—rigid Navy-type crewmember rules on the one hand, dancing in sparkling costumes beneath bright lights on the other—causes confusion for Lana. From below-decks affa... read more
One Day in Ocilla: A sweet romance
Lilly Mirren
Sam had come to terms with his solitary, uncomplicated life after his wife left him and his two-year-old son fifteen years ago. So, when the sexy and confident Penelope Harper walks into the Post Office where he works, everything changes. At the same time his ex-wife returns to Ocilla with her new beau, demanding to see their son and Sam is faced with making a difficult decision. In a journey ... read more
From the author of Multiple Exposure, the second “intriguing…compelling” (Publishers Weekly) novel in the thrilling Sophie Medina mystery series that features a photojournalist as she races to find an international treasure before a murderer finds her.When freelance photojournalist Sophie Medina finds Brother Kevin Boyle, a Franciscan friar and controversial environmentalist, dead in the magni... read more
The Ulterior Motive
Jack Coleston
The fate of the United States hangs in the balance and only a select few can prevent the impending disaster. Stanley Carmichael is an intelligent and hard-working member of the Central Intelligence Agency. Yet, he never expected to be named Deputy Director of the CIA so soon in his career. Nonetheless, he finds himself stepping into shoes that feel impossible to fill. Anna Carmichael is a lege... read more
Night Bloom (Night Bloom Saga Book 1)
R.G. Hunsaker
All Sophie Bloom has ever known is a quiet, sheltered life with her abysmally normal parents. She has no idea that one morning will change everything about her ordinary life. Because by the end of her usual run, she’s seen something she can’t explain—something that can’t be human—Sophie is plunged into a dark and violent world of creatures straight out of mythology. It seems she didn’t know ev... read more
HE WAS EVERYTHING SHE’D SWORN TO AVOIDLady Belle Middleton has never followed the dictates of society. She designs scandalous gowns, refuses to marry, wears inappropriate undergarments and answers to no one, most certainly not the dashing and irksome Earl of Westfield. But Belle hides a dark, perilous secret that can utterly destroy her. The stakes have never been higher and betrayal has never... read more
Ez Ozel: Prologue to Perdition
Dave Oliver
After losing everything to a growing threat, the northman Fierd travels south looking for a new life. With the unknown ahead and certain doom behind, he takes on a young travel companion who may be able to help him make a fresh start somewhere safe.Proud, ambitious, and talented, a new officer of the City Ward struggles to keep an unsure populace in order. With the king missing from the throne... read more
The Immundus
Christina Enquist
Would you sacrifice your humanity to save mankind?IT’S THE YEAR 2828, and Domus is the last remaining country. Divided into twelve walled cities known as genuses, Domus spans what’s known as the purist lands—lands unaffected by the genetic modifications that killed all other species of mammals. But outside the walls of each genus the Immundus threaten the welfare of those within. From a young ... read more
Mata Hari Squad
Erin L. Jungdahl
Nothing can stop a spy on a mission, except maybe one of her partners.Miranda Watson wants two things in life: a good bottle of wine and a promotion. Not at her day job, her real job: espionage. The work makes her feel alive but her newest partner is killing her... chances for that coveted promotion. When she uncovers a contractor blackmailing a politician, Miranda is certain that she’s found ... read more
Woman of the Dead: A Novel
Bernhard Aichner
The #1 international bestseller praised as “one of the most arresting thrillers I’ve read in years” (#1 New York Times bestselling author Lisa Gardner), Woman of the Dead is the darkly thrilling tale of Brünhilde Blum, a successful undertaker whose happiness is dashed by a tragedy that sets her on a path of revenge.For the past eight years, Blum has had a good life—a life that masks the terrib... read more
A Gypsy in Scotland (MacCallan Clan Book 1)
Tanya Wilde
How does a spirited lady bring nine overprotective brothers to heel? Rescue a dangerous looking gypsy, tend to his injury most ardently, and when he swoops in to steal a kiss, kiss him right back.A LADY IN A CASTLESassy, kind-hearted, and bored to death, Lady Honoria MacCallan has had enough of her brothers' overbearing ways. She longs for a chance to spread her wings and is determined to take... read more
Dark Wine at Sunrise (A Hill Vampire Novel Book 2)
Jenna Barwin
"Sensual, sophisticated and sinfully addictive!" ~InD'tale Magazine A seductive spy. An alpha vampire. A deadly conspiracy...Research scientist Cerissa Patel has only one desire: to feel her lover's fangs slip into her neck for the very first time. Once they become blood mates, no one can keep them apart.But it's never that easy.Cerissa's relationship with vampire Henry Bautista violates a cen... read more
Crystal Eyes (Civilands Book 2)
N.B. Austin
A resistance borne in a wolf's icy glare. Welcome to Harran!** A BooksGoSocial Gold Quality Mark Earning Novel **Turmoil continues to reign in the Murrieta Territory.Just as the Riverlands fall under control of the Keagan gang, Daniel Keagan is faced with a mysterious new threat. Meanwhile, William Keagan is ready for his journey back to the east Duresian city of New Berkeley, where he will fi... read more
Crescent Heart (Civilands Book 3)
N.B. Austin
An ultimatum goes unfulfilled. War is coming to the Murrieta Territory.The negotiations with the natives of the Riverlands have failed as Clovis Keagan heads north.However, the truth will finally be revealed to Daniel Keagan about the fire at the Morrell home. How will he maintain the order he seeks in the Riverlands? At the same time, Jeannie, Dominic, and Harrison make their return to Harran... read more
The Perks of Being a Duchess (Middleton Book 2)
Tanya Wilde
When a Middleton causes a scandal, it's never by half measures . . .This was certainly the case with Willow Middleton, who had thrown every bit of care to the mid-May breeze and . . . married the imperious duke her sister abandoned at the altar moments ago.But how is a bride to win over her bossy husband?• Disobeying his every rule probably won’t help. • Perhaps some kissing is in order?• Mayb... read more
The Old Bridge (A Joe Johnson Thriller, Book 2)
Andrew Turpin
The explosive fallout from a top CIA man’s corruption and a US political leader’s aggression. The hunt for a mystery war killer. And a gripping British twist after a death on a ruined iconic bridge. War crimes investigator and former CIA officer Joe Johnson is sucked into the search for a secret dossier that disappeared twenty years ago from the president’s office in Sarajevo—but which has hig... read more
Stalin's Final Sting (A Joe Johnson Thriller, Book 4)
Andrew Turpin
The darkest secrets of a Russian oligarch—a legacy from Stalin. A hidden batch of the CIA’s Stinger missiles. And the insatiable Afghan thirst for revenge.Ex-CIA war crimes investigator Joe Johnson is sucked into an inquiry which delves into the deadly world of Soviet and US undercover operations in Afghanistan during the 1980s—and mysterious connections to current US and Russian politics.John... read more
Missing Molly
Natalie Barelli
"Great plot and characters. I really enjoyed this author's writing style and will be reading more of her work. I highly recommend this book." Netgalley reviewer"A must read for everyone who loves psychological suspense!!!! Goodreads reviewer Everyone has secrets, and Rachel Holloway is no exception. She’s worked hard to keep the past where it belongs: dead and buried. And so far, she’s been ve... read more
The gripping action thriller with a shocking twistWhat price would you pay to know the truth?Kaden Baker, an elite hacker and covert ops specialist, finds her life turned upside down when she discovers that the parents who raised her were imposters. Were they hired by the same shadowy figure who’s been financing her high-stakes secret missions beneath the Vatican and in Washington, D.C.? She c... read more
Lucy's Legacy
Tia Day
Caitlin Beck is a complicated twenty-one-year-old college student with a dark past. A past made elusive to Caitlin herself, after a traumatic event at the age of five had induced a highly complex case of Dissociative Amnesia Disorder. But all things considered, Caitlin's life appears to be moving along as planned. She's just moved into the dorms at Mary Mackland University, where she will fulf... read more
Kraken
David Arrowood
A U-boat that can change the course of the war. Otto Speer is a commander who knows which rules to break and which rules to bend. He is ordered into a battle that change history. He and his crew jump in feet first. Can he survive the battle that will alter the outcome of WWII?Find out in Kraken by David Arrowood, the first book in the new series that chronicles Germany's rise the use of advanc... read more
Primary Anomaly (Fables of Nevertime Book 1)
Peter Sonntag
In a post-apocalyptic world full of war, inequality, and corruption, one young man may have the power to change everything.In the year 2033, what began as a breakthrough in understanding the human genome became the end of civilization. Decades later, Eibmoz Corporation establishes Habitats in low radiation zones in an attempt to revive society, installing a totalitarian regime in the process. ... read more
Things are looking up for Lacey Becnel. A new job on the beautiful Central Coast of California and a budding relationship are the perfect escape from her tumultuous summer in New Orleans. She can't run from everything, though, and when she's sucked into a decades-old mystery, she scrambles to understand the limits of her traiteur power. Who else has supernatural abilities, and who will go to n... read more
Katrina has 18 reviews
Professionalism
Professionalism
Quality
Quality
Value
Value
Communication & Punctuality
Communication & Punctuality
Years ago, I had a bad experience with an editor that left me wary; I approached this choice with trepidation. After wading through my Reedsy responses, I chose Katrina based on an example of her work product and her profile. I could not have done better. I mean every one of the five stars in this rating. If this book is a success, she will have had a big hand in it.
Steve Stranov, January 2020
Katrina was great at pointing out holes and inconsistencies in my plot. As a new author, her rewrite suggestions were very helpful in learning how to make the story flow better. I hope to work with her again.
Patrick Tebbe, February 2019
This was my first time working with a professional editor, so I was unsure what to expect. There were a couple small bumps in the turnaround time, but other than that, Katrina was fantastic to work with! She caught inconsistencies that none of my beta readers had, and she provided both overall and line editing suggestions that I think made my book much better overall.
I'm glad it was a positi...
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Carly Stevens, February 2019
I'd heard good things about Katrina's editorial prowess, and the reports were true. We agreed upon a custom editorial assessment for my thriller manuscript, and Katrina provided not just a high-level report -- an overview assessing the manuscript's plot clarity, character arcs, pacing, and structure -- but also a detailed critique that identified not just shortcomings but opportunities to make ...
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JD Lasica, April 2018
Katrina was absolutely wonderful. She took the time to truly understand the plot, the motives of my characters, as well as the overall story I was trying to tell. My novel is infinitely better because of her thoroughness. She collaborates very closely with the authors to try to completely understand the voice they are trying to give their characters, and works hard to help them jump off the page!
Ray Robbio, November 2017
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Jim Thomas
Crafting a work of fiction is a gloriously arduous process. With over twenty years of experience at one of the big NYC houses, I can help.
Perry Hall, MD, United States
Brenda Chin
Award-winning editor and book doctor with 30 years experience in the romance industry.
Innisfil, ON, Canada
