Is your story pulling
its weight—or just
pulling you in circles?
I support authors at every stage—from the first spark and story blueprinting to developmental and line edits—for fiction that’s character-driven, emotionally satisfying, and structurally sound.
Meet Kate
For over a decade, I’ve helped authors write the kinds of stories that keep readers up too late—binge-worthy, emotionally charged, and structurally solid. I started in traditional publishing, where I learned how to spot what makes a manuscript work. But it wasn’t until I transitioned to freelance editing that I found my real passion: working side-by-side with authors to shape their stories from the inside out.
In 2019, I co-founded Zory, an interactive reading app that blended the immersive pull of fiction with the player agency of narrative video games. As head of publishing and editorial, I worked with bestselling romance authors—including Amazon top-ten, NYT, and USA Today bestsellers, as well as RITA award winners—to craft stories to both entertain and emotionally engage readers in every possible timeline. That experience sharpened my instincts for story structure, emotional pacing, and reader payoff.
Now, I’ve returned to what I love most: helping authors map out their series, deepen their character arcs, and build stories that are both technically strong and emotionally unforgettable.
“Thanks to Kate, I now have a roadmap to move forward with the book of my heart.”
My Editorial Approach
I help authors elevate their work from almost-there drafts to absolute hits. My approach is deeply structural—but never clinical. I dig into the bones of the story, yes, but I’m equally invested in your characters’ emotional truths, your unique voice, and the specific rhythm of your genre.
I don’t just flag plot holes or fuzzy motivations—I help you uncover why the weak spots are happening and, together, help you kick that flabby writing muscle into shape. Think of it like physical therapy for story. I’ll help identify what needs strengthening and will walk you through how to bolster it with intention and confidence.
I blend my expertise in story structure and craft techniques with character psychology (Jungian personality theory, GMC, archetypal character arcs) to help you write books rich in emotional depth, tight pacing, and totally you. Every edit is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your process.
Whether you’re plotting a trilogy, smoothing out a sagging middle, or finally ready to turn your messy draft into something clean and compelling—I’m here to help.
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Pre-Writing Services
Editorial Services
I’m lucky to work with incredible authors frequently found on these bestseller lists:
“I had the pleasure of working with Kate Johnson on a complete overhaul of a novel. She is an expert in reader expectations, and her developmental edits were invaluable. She not only gave my story solid and compelling character arcs, but she also helped bring the book in line with my writing voice. Kate has an in-depth understanding of storytelling and delivers comprehensive feedback in a collaborative way. Working with her was a wonderful experience. I learned a lot and enjoyed the process at the same time.”
Melanie Summers, Amazon Top 10 & USA Today Bestselling Author
“One of the best, most knowledgable editors I’ve worked with in my 20+ years in the industry. Kate has a nearly unmatched understanding of story structure, giving her the unique ability to dissect a book and analyze its strengths and flaws. I brought her a book that I knew in my gut “was broken” but that no one else had been able to help me understand why or how, let alone how to “fix it.” Thanks to Kate, I now have a roadmap to move forward with the book of my heart.”
Emma Lee Jayne, USA Today Bestselling Author & RITA Winner
“I had the pleasure of working with Kate Johnson on a complete overhaul of a novel. She is an expert in reader expectations, and her developmental edits were invaluable. She not only gave my story solid and compelling character arcs, but she also helped bring the book in line with my writing voice. Kate has an in-depth understanding of storytelling and delivers comprehensive feedback in a collaborative way. Working with her was a wonderful experience. I learned a lot and enjoyed the process at the same time.”
Melanie Summers, Amazon Top 10 & USA Today Bestselling Author
Let’s get started with a Sample Edit.
Whether you know exactly what kind of edit you need or you’re still figuring it out, a free sample edit is the best place to start. You’ll get in-line comments on up to 1,000 words (usually your opening scene), plus a brief summary of strengths, areas for improvement, and a clear recommendation for next steps.
Just fill out the form—I’ll follow up with next steps and instructions for sending your excerpt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all. If you’re unsure whether you need a developmental edit, line edit, or copy edit, that’s what the sample edit is for. I’ll assess your pages and recommend the best next step for your manuscript.