Kristen Defevers

Kristen Defevers – Editor

Experienced copyeditor and proofreader specializing in Christian nonfiction. Let's work together and make your book the very best it can be!

Overview

It is a passion of mine to help others make their writing the cleanest that it can be—free of errors and inconsistencies—so that the reader can easily focus on the message of the book.My journey in editing began at UCLA, where I completed my undergraduate degree in Communication Studies and graduated summa cum laude. I worked for the student newspaper as a copyeditor and immediately loved the objectivity of using a style guide to find errors and improve copy. After graduation, I worked as a copyeditor for the Southern California News Group. My copyediting and proofreading work now centers on assisting publishers in a freelance capacity. As books enter the final stages of production, I either copyedit or proofread the work to ensure conformity to Chicago Manual of Style and any house style rules. I primarily edit Christian nonfiction, but I read widely and would love to work with you on another genre.
Services
Non-Fiction
Christian Non-Fiction
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Association of Certified Biblical Counselors

Apr, 2018 — Sep, 2021 (over 3 years)
As ACBC's Content Manager, I provided edits for all outgoing copy and ensured that our communication was professional, clear, consistent, and free of errors. I also supported the development of ACBC publications by serving as the primary copyeditor for publications in development.

Self-employed

Apr, 2018 — Present
I work with publishers and self-published authors to edit book manuscripts using Microsoft Word's track changes function or Adobe markup tools. I ensure style adherence to various style manuals (including Chicago, Turabian, and Christian Writer’s Manual of Style).

Portfolio

Elisabeth Elliot: A Life

S. R. Austen, Lucy

Kristen has 27 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Russ R.

Russ R.

Feb, 2026

Kristen was a joy to work with, and her insights greatly enhanced my manuscript. She listened patiently, took time to understand my perspective, and offered feedback that was thoughtful, careful, and grounded in Scripture. I hope to work with her again in the future and can recommend her to anyon...
Read more
Lisa R.

Lisa R.

Nov, 2025

Kristen was a true professional—prompt, thorough, and incredibly kind. As a first-time author, I had many questions, and she answered each patiently. Her thoughtful edits strengthened my manuscript while honoring my voice. I’m deeply grateful for her support and highly recommend her to anyone see...
Read more
Krystal M.

Krystal M.

Nov, 2025

Had an amazing experience working with Kristen! Will definitely be working with her again :)
Krystal M.

Krystal M.

Oct, 2025

It was a pleasure working with Kristen! Look forward to working with her again in the future :)
Casey P.

Casey P.

Jun, 2025

Kristen is my editor of choice—without question. She is absolutely fantastic. Working with her has been nothing but enjoyable. She’s not just an editor to me; she’s a partner in the creative process. Kristen brings a rare blend of professionalism, insight, and genuine care to her work. She doesn...
Read more

Sign up to read more reviews

Create a free Reedsy account to connect with Kristen and thousands of other publishing professionals on Reedsy.

Professionals similar to Kristen

Get a range of offers by requesting quotes from multiple professionals.

Kelley Mathews

Kelley M.

Seminary-trained coauthor of eight ministry-related books, with 25+ years of experience as a writer, editor, reviewer, and proofreader.

Lumberton, TX, USA

100% reply rate

View profile
James M Reilly

James M R.

Copy editor of twenty books at major university presses. I’ll help you convey complex ideas about history and religion to your audience.

Rockaway, New Jersey, USA

100% reply rate

View profile
Sarah Welch

Sarah W.

Seasoned nonfiction editor specializing in Christian living, history, biography, and devotionals. Experienced beta reader in fiction.

St. Louis, MO, USA

95% reply rate

View profile