Chris Urie

Chris Urie – Editor

I am an expert in genre fiction, with years of experience evaluating short fiction. I want your wildest stories to find a published home.

Overview

I've spent years working as a writer, editor, slush reader, and interviewer for a variety of publications.At Clarkesworld Magazine, I spent my time reading thousands of science fiction and fantasy short story submissions. I assessed the merits of the story, provided edits, and found something to praise within each submission before passing it along to the editor-in-chief for final evaluation. I analyzed the text for clear character motivations, provided guidance on world building, and supplied plot enhancements to help each aspect of the story to form a cohesive whole.A story I am particularly proud of helping to publish is "Last Resort" by award winning author Nicole Kornher-Stace. It is an excellent example of a unique voice, fully formed characters, and an engaging world that grabs a reader's attention and doesn't let go.I can bring that experience and knowledge to editing your fine works of short and novel length fiction. My passion and experience lies within softer science fiction and fantasy where character, heart, and excitement are at the forefront.As your editor, I will focus on helping you to craft a cohesive setting populated with engaging characters that will draw readers into your world. With my help, you'll banish clichés, expand characterizations, and mold your plot into a complete story that will be irresistible to editors and readers alike. I will provide you with a deep critical analysis of your plot structure, character composition, setting details, and supply finely tuned edits to improve the clarity of your vision.In addition to years working for Clarkesworld Magazine, I was also co-editor of a well-regarded city website where I managed a team of writers. It covered the niche aspects of Philadelphia's diverse culture.
Services
Fiction
Fantasy Horror Science Fiction Short Story
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

Clarkesworld Magazine

Apr, 2015 — Jul, 2019 (about 4 years)
I read thousands of short fiction submissions, assessed their quality, and sent the best stories up to the Neil Clarke for a final assessment and addition to the magazine. For years, I was also the staff interviewer in charge of picking the brains of some of the finest minds in science fiction and fantasy. I've interviewed everyone from newly minted novelists like Seth Dickinson to bestsellers like Jeff VanderMeer.

Geekadelphia

Jun, 2011 — Oct, 2016 (over 5 years)
As a co-editor, my responsibilities included assigning articles to a team of over 20 writers, organize schedules, and copy edit submissions. My roster of writers have gone on to staff positions at the Philadelphia Inquirer, Business Insider, and USA Today.

Chris has 52 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Calvin C.

Calvin C.

Jun, 2025

Absolutely wonderful! High-quality feedback appropriate for the style, medium, and target audience. Will be back.
Viola J.

Viola J.

Jun, 2025

Chris, thank you so much for your thorough and constructive feedback! I’m excited to dive back in with your suggestions in mind.
Andy C.

Andy C.

May, 2025

Chris was insightful and direct. The suggestions he made were clear and concise. He answered my questions, whether they were directly related to the project or to the business of writing in general.
Spencer J.

Spencer J.

May, 2025

Overwhelmingly satisfied!
Andrew E.

Andrew E.

Apr, 2025

Chris was wonderful to work with and provided thoughtful and actionable feedback.

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