Katherine Locke

Katherine Locke – Editor

Editor with years of experience helping authors achieve their dreams. Let's work together to strengthen your story from top to bottom!

Overview

I am a committed, passionate editor who loves working with authors at all stages in their career. Whether this is your first book, or your twentieth book, I can help you improve your writing in all aspects, from structural to prose to character arcs and more. My authors have self-published and traditionally published, including with Big Five publishers like Harper Collins, Penguin Random House, Hachette and more.


As a developmental editor, I particularly like working with authors to develop tighter, more logical and seamless plots with great pacing and compelling character arcs. I connect the dots between plot, world, and character where there are disconnects so that the narrative really shines. Some editors end up wanting to change the book to their vision, but I pride myself on seeing YOUR vision for your book and helping you get the book closer to that vision. If you're not sure what that vision is, that's okay! Let's work together to figure it out.


As an editor, I particularly like working on young adult, middle grade, and romance novels.

I give detailed feedback within the manuscript and a thorough edit letter. For most of my clients, I end up doing a vide call too to discuss edits or next steps. I really find that video call helps sort out any lingering questions, and helps clients develop a revision plan that gets them through the next part of the process.


I am really passionate about editing. I find it fulfilling, like completing a challenging puzzle. There's nothing quite like the feeling like getting a piece to snap into place. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure of yourself, I'm here to help you and your book succeed. I can't wait to work together.


Testimonials

I was so impressed by Katherine’s feedback on my query that I hired them for a full manuscript critique. Best decision. Katherine’s detailed analysis and worldbuilding, plot and characterization suggestions helped me transform my middle grade story. I feel lucky to have worked with such a great editor! - Jean Ramsden, MG author

If you're thinking about booking Katherine for editorial services, do it! She was a dream to work with and her very smart notes were spot on. Katherine was extremely professional and always turned around edits on time. Her insight and guidance were invaluable. Working with her elevated my writing and helped me understand character development in a new way. I am forever grateful for all her hard work and guidance on my manuscript. - Jennie Wexler, author of WHERE IT ALL LANDS

I have worked with Katherine on multiple manuscripts, and each time she has gone above and beyond to help get my novels into querying-shape. I learned so much from her feedback, and truly would not be the writer I am today without her insight. It’s clear that she is passionate not only about editing, but about helping her clients to unlock their full story-telling potential. - Sabrina Kleckner, author of The Art of Running Away

Services
Fiction
Contemporary Romance Young Adult
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Self-employed

Jan, 2015 — Present

I have edited hundreds of manuscripts, partial manuscripts, and query letters since 2015. Many of my clients have been traditionally published or self published, depending on their own career goals. My clients go on to win awards and travel for school visits and festivals.

Portfolio

No Place Like Here

June, Christina

Spindle

Johnston, E. K.

Soul of Stars

Poston, Ashley

Dreamstrider

Smith, Lindsay

'She loved me as I loved her, fierce as a bloodied blade'When Lia, an idealistic queen, falls for Xania, her new spymaster--who took the job to avenge her murdered father--they realise all isn't fair in love and treason. Lia won’t mourn her uncle: he's left he... read more

Katherine has 22 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Walter K.

Walter K.

Jul, 2024

I've just had my first editor's review. The notes provided have been very useful. I'm looking forward to our second review.
Katherine L.
Hi Walter! Thank you for the review! I look forward to seeing your revisions!
J. D. W.

J. D. W.

Dec, 2023

This is the third time I've worked with Katherine on developmental editing, and she is phenomenal! I received a detailed, thorough review, and wonderful insight on how to improve my manuscript. She is also kind and considerate - I highly recommend!
neway A.

neway A.

Nov, 2023

I recommend Katherine very much. Katherine was great and helped me with developmental editing by taking the time needed to restructure the stories, expand/subtract on details and in-depth editing. Thank you Katherine.
Charis E.

Charis E.

Oct, 2023

Katherine was absolutely incredible to work with!! This is my debut novel so I was very nervous to choose an editor, but I literally couldn't have made a better choice. Katherine is extremely intelligent and skilled at what she does, I learned so many things from her! She is also so creative and good at understanding your vision for your story. I had a blast working out ideas with her. She's so...
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Lisa V.

Lisa V.

Sep, 2023

I had the pleasure of working with Katherine, an exceptional editor, who provided me with an insightful and constructive editorial assessment of my manuscript. Her feedback was not only constructive but also delivered with an encouraging tone that motivated me to dive into the revision process with enthusiasm. She carefully identified and focused on the problematic areas of my work, offering va...
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