Hi, I'm Kristen.

I believe most manuscripts are good.

The difference between a good manuscript and one readers can't put down usually comes down to craft—not talent.

For more than twenty years, I've helped writers strengthen commercial fiction, first as an editor inside traditional publishing and now as a freelance developmental editor. During that time, I've worked with bestselling authors, debut novelists, literary agents, and publishers, always with the same goal: helping writers tell the strongest version of the story they already wanted to tell.

I began my publishing career at what is now Hachette Book Group before moving to the editorial side, eventually overseeing Grand Central Publishing's legendary Mysterious Press. I later became a senior editor at Penguin's New American Library, where I helped launch the Obsidian mystery imprint.

Today I specialize in developmental editing for crime fiction, romance, and women's fiction. My process goes beyond simply marking up a manuscript. I read every book twice, stay with my authors through revision, and help them navigate the next steps—whether that's querying literary agents or publishing independently.

I don't believe in rewriting a writer's voice. I believe in helping writers become more of the storytellers they already are.

That's also why I created Inside an Editor's Brain. After years of watching publishing advice stay locked behind closed doors, I wanted to build the resource I wished every writer had: practical, honest, encouraging guidance from someone who's spent decades inside the industry. Today the newsletter reaches thousands of writers every week through articles, Editor's Notes, and publishing resources designed to make the journey a little less lonely.

Whether you're writing your first novel or your fifteenth, I'm glad you're here.

I hope my newsletter helps you write a stronger book. And if the time comes when you'd like an editor in your corner, I'd be honored to help you build a book readers can't put down.