Editorial Freelancers Association
Member Profile
Laura Burge
Literary Laura
I am an enthusiastic reader, writer, writing coach and editor of books and stories. I work as a developmental editor and copyeditor for independent clients as well as publishers, having edited more than 100 books. These works have spanned genres from romance and historical fiction to crime and thrillers. My specialty, though, is YA and adult fantasy, magical realism and science fiction. Any story with a bit of the strange, the magical, the fantastic – that’s my area. If given half a chance, I will offer book recommendations. I also enjoy working with neurodivergent writers and finding ways to work with your brain, not against it.
I’m also a writer, and I understand the challenges of the writing process and the need to have clear communication between editor and writer. It’s difficult to hand your work to someone else, and I strive to make that as easy as possible.
I enjoy collaborating, which can include consultations about the work, and I believe in giving my clients as many tools and resources as I can to help them improve their craft, in addition to the high-quality edits I provide.
An editor since 2011, I began working at a website in Silicon Valley and then started my own editing business. I have a BA in English and World Literature, with honors. My thesis was on Jorge Luis Borges as a predecessor to magical realism, so my love of this genre goes back quite a while. Before my editing days, I worked as a tutor, which writers may be able to recognize when I give out (optional) writing assignments to help improve their craft or see a scene from a new angle.
I believe in the importance of always learning – which is why I’m excited to share what I know, and am constantly doing continued professional development, from attending conferences to taking courses and finding new resources for writers.
Want to know more? Check out my website at www.literarylaura.com or send me an email at laura@literarylaura.com
Words from happy clients:
“Laura has been a pleasure to work with on a variety of literary projects. The combination of a natural warmth in personality and a professional approach have helped cement the foundations of what I’m sure will be a lasting working relationship. In particular, Laura’s knowledge of the short story format and character development have been invaluable to my continued progress as a writer.”
“Laura is knowledgeable, thorough, and has a great eye for detail.”
“Hiring Laura was the smartest thing I’ve done in a long time. I’ve taught myself many things, but at some point a professional is the only way.”
“Laura is a dream to work with, communicating clearly, understanding the requirements, the effort and the emotion behind the project.”
“What I believe makes her a truly gifted editor is her ability to read and understand a given piece, and then to edit it in a sympathetic way that nevertheless delivers accurate work.”
Portland, OR
US
Email: laura@literarylaura.com
Years in the field: 12
Years freelancing: 6
Laura Burge
I am an enthusiastic reader, writer, writing coach and editor of books and stories. I work as a developmental editor and copyeditor for independent clients as well as publishers, having edited more than 100 books. These works have spanned genres from romance and historical fiction to crime and thrillers. My specialty, though, is YA and adult fantasy, magical realism and science fiction. Any story with a bit of the strange, the magical, the fantastic – that’s my area. If given half a chance, I will offer book recommendations. I also enjoy working with neurodivergent writers and finding ways to work with your brain, not against it.
I’m also a writer, and I understand the challenges of the writing process and the need to have clear communication between editor and writer. It’s difficult to hand your work to someone else, and I strive to make that as easy as possible.
I enjoy collaborating, which can include consultations about the work, and I believe in giving my clients as many tools and resources as I can to help them improve their craft, in addition to the high-quality edits I provide.
An editor since 2011, I began working at a website in Silicon Valley and then started my own editing business. I have a BA in English and World Literature, with honors. My thesis was on Jorge Luis Borges as a predecessor to magical realism, so my love of this genre goes back quite a while. Before my editing days, I worked as a tutor, which writers may be able to recognize when I give out (optional) writing assignments to help improve their craft or see a scene from a new angle.
I believe in the importance of always learning – which is why I’m excited to share what I know, and am constantly doing continued professional development, from attending conferences to taking courses and finding new resources for writers.
Want to know more? Check out my website at www.literarylaura.com or send me an email at laura@literarylaura.com
Words from happy clients:
“Laura has been a pleasure to work with on a variety of literary projects. The combination of a natural warmth in personality and a professional approach have helped cement the foundations of what I’m sure will be a lasting working relationship. In particular, Laura’s knowledge of the short story format and character development have been invaluable to my continued progress as a writer.”
“Laura is knowledgeable, thorough, and has a great eye for detail.”
“Hiring Laura was the smartest thing I’ve done in a long time. I’ve taught myself many things, but at some point a professional is the only way.”
“Laura is a dream to work with, communicating clearly, understanding the requirements, the effort and the emotion behind the project.”
“What I believe makes her a truly gifted editor is her ability to read and understand a given piece, and then to edit it in a sympathetic way that nevertheless delivers accurate work.”
