There is no secret to publishing success. You need a fabulous idea, supported by a strong story, wrapped up in good, enjoyable writing. And you need to stand out from the crowd of other books competing for readers’ attention.
I said it wasn’t a secret, not that it was easy. But I can help.
Why should you work with me?
I’ve got three decades’ experience in publishing, first in the editorial trenches with (then-)Penguin USA, and then as writer and freelance editor. As a writer, I understand the creative impulse – as an editor, I understand how to push that impulse into high gear, and bring your best work forward, be it for trad or indie publication.
Among the writers I’ve worked with are Rachel Caine, Dana Stabenow, Harry Turtledove, Peter Beagle, Kristine Kathryn Rusch, R.A. Salvatore, Anne Bishop, S.M. Stirling, and Shiloh Walker. Best-selling, award-winning authors from all genres, with a specialization in science fiction and fantasy.
If you’re serious about wanting to put forward not just a good book, but the very best book you can write – let’s talk.
Rates and Availability for 2024
Developmental Editing: $50/hour
Line Editing: $55/hour
Submission packet evaluation (cover letter & synopsis review, and a “slush filter” read of 3 chapters): $500 flat fee.
Ad/ marketing copy writing: Contact me discuss your particular project.
I also offer “editor-on-call” services: a block of time to be used however the client needs it – hand-holding, ass-kicking, reviewing material, advising on contracts, discussing the process of publication (self or trad), etc. I’ve been on both sides of the desk, which makes me uniquely suited for helping both new and established writers over the inevitable speed bumps and blockades along the way. $350 for a 4-hour block (what most people need to get their project back on track); $600 for a 10-hour block (better for more involved projects or long-term work).
Contact me for available slots.SFWA/MWA/RWA/HWA members eligible for a discount
What Writers Are Saying:
“Thank you, Laura Anne, as ALWAYS. If you need edits, she is amazing, folks.” – NYT Bestseller Rachel Caine
“Laura Anne was a pleasure to work with as an editor. She gave close, intelligent readings of my work, and made suggestions which, even when they required a lot of work, I was usually happy to follow. They improved the final drafts immeasurably and saved me considerable embarrassment.” – NYT bestselling author S.M. Stirling
“If any of you have read the first Kate Shugak novel, guess what? None of you have read the first chapter. Not the original first chapter, anyway, because editor Laura Anne Gilman, then at Berkley, made me cut it. “It’s great, Dana,”she told me, “but it doesn’t have anything to do with the rest of the book.” She was right, I cut it, the book went on to win an Edgar award.” – NYT bestselling author Dana Stabenow
“Laura Anne was a great editor for me. She never tried to tell me what to write, but would, without fail, point out places where I could make the story clearer and stronger. My books were much better when she was done.” – Wen Spencer
“Quick, concise, and to the point. Laura Anne takes a writer’s story and makes it better.” – Shiloh Walker
“As an editor, Laura Anne Gilman surpasses all expectations. She’s thorough, prompt, intelligent, organized, and exhaustive. She’s old-school, a hands-on editor… ” – Scott Mackay