Kristen Tate – Editor

With a decade of full-time editing experience and a PhD in English from Columbia University, I specialize in helping experienced fiction writers explore new narrative territory and expand their storytelling capabilities. My background in literary analysis and publishing history, combined with my ongoing study of contemporary bestsellers, gives me unique insight into what makes fiction resonate with readers. I've published books, appeared on podcasts including The Creative Penn, and spoken at conferences like the San Francisco Writers Conference on topics ranging from narrative structure to the evolution of genre fiction.

Whether you need big-picture developmental guidance or detailed line editing, I tailor my approach to fit your goals and needs. I can help you with targeted feedback on an outline or your first chapters, deliver a comprehensive manuscript evaluation or style audit, or guide you through the entire process from rough draft to finished book. My editing philosophy centers on clarity, honesty, and respect—I always strive to offer the kind and careful truth. I'll identify what's already working in your manuscript while offering specific, actionable suggestions for strengthening the elements that need attention. As a former teacher, I bring an educational approach to my editing work, so you'll walk away not just with a stronger manuscript, but also with new skills you can apply to all your future writing projects.

Larger projects start with a free short sample edit so we can both be sure I'm the right fit for your work, and all projects include follow-up support and/or revision reviews, depending on the project.