Lauren Hitzhusen

Lauren Hitzhusen – Editor

10+ years of editorial experience in graphic novels & prose. Formerly at Valiant Entertainment, Mad Cave Studios, & more. MS in publishing.

Overview

I've been in the publishing industry for a decade where I've primarily worked in the comics space--yes, that includes superhero books! I started as an intern at Valiant Entertainment but have worked for many publishers such as Mad Cave Studios, Oni Press, and more. I am driven, determined, and love getting to the meat of a story--I especially love the YA world, but have also worked on adult books and children's/all-ages books as well. I've edited USA Today bestsellers and award-winning titles.

Working with me is fun! I believe that my role as an editor is to help you find the core of your story--what do you want to say and how can I help you get there? I am going to be your biggest cheerleader, while also being a critic of your work. I want you to put out a book that you're proud of! You can expect thorough communication from me and compliments in my notes (along with notes, of course). I will keep your target market in mind and work with you to make your books shine. I adore romance and slice-of-life, but have edited many fantasy books and horror stories as well. You can expect fast turnarounds, thorough notes, and someone who wants you to be your best.

Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Comics & Graphic Novels Coming of Age Fantasy Humor & Comedy Middle Grade Romance
Non-Fiction
Entertainment
Languages
English (US)
Awards
  • Ringo Award nominated book
  • Harvey Award nominated book
Certifications
  • Masters in Publishing

Work experience

Mad Cave Studios

May, 2022 — Dec, 2025 (over 3 years)
The senior editor for Mad Cave's young adult line. I developmentally edited and proofread 20-25 young adult graphic novels annually in genres ranging from slice of life to horror to science fiction.

Rehab Media Network

Oct, 2021 — May, 2022 (8 months)
Edited and reviewed articles from the Rehab Media Network of brands (Alcoholics Anonymous, Addictions.com, and more). I made sure these were properly cross-linked, factual, and free of grammatical errors.

Screenrant

Jul, 2021 — Oct, 2021 (3 months)
Produced articles for Screenrant and edited articles from other freelance writers in the comics section. I made sure these were cross-linked and free of errors! It also provided me a wealth of knowledge in the entertainment nonfiction writing space.

Self-employed

May, 2021 — Present
I freelance write and edit--and have!--for a variety of clients including Houstonia Mag, Oni Press, the Texas Education Association, Seesaw, and more.

Sunday Riley

Dec, 2019 — Aug, 2020 (8 months)
Fact-checked all articles posted to the Sunday Edit (including confirming scientific accuracy, contacting interviewees to confirm quotes, and making sure that any articles linked were from reputable sources) – this proofreading and fact-checking included a previous 18 months of publication, as well as any articles that came out during my tenure • Proofread all articles to AP style standards

Valiant Entertainment

Jan, 2016 — May, 2017 (over 1 year)
Managed seven books, tracking ongoing development of art and script. Assisted on Harbinger Renegade, Britannia, Generation Zero, Imperium, and Faith (2017 Eisner Award-nominee) Editor on Valiant High, Valiant’s only online-exclusive comic through Comixology Lead editor on Generation Zero and special projects such as the Keep a Breast comic

Portfolio

Voyage De Gourmet

Tobin, Paul

Maverick

Copy Editing Proofreading
In Mourning

Cheshire, Paula

Maverick

Copy Editing
Proofreading
The College Try (0)

Cuartero-Briggs, Olivia

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Silver Vessels

Orlando, Steve

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Student Government

Justus, Dave

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Paper Planes

Wood, Jennie

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Of Her Own Design

Willis, Birdie

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Navigating With You Vol. 2

Whitley, Jeremy

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Navigating With You

Whitley, Jeremy

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Just Another Summer

Bridges, Tilly & Susan

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
I Didn't Ask For This (0)

Wood, Jennie

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Confetti Realms

Shammas, Nadia

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Abuzz

Chase, Amy

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Heartbreak Hotel

Beltramini, Micol

Maverick

Proofreading
The Last Session Vol. 2

Walls, Jasmine

Maverick

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Proofreading
Proofreading
Proofreading
Valiant High

Kibblesmith, Daniel

Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Proofreading
Developmental Editing Proofreading

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