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Hire the best Short Story writers

Clients rate our Short Story writers
Rating is 4.8 out of 5.
4.8/5
Based on 1,781 client reviews
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Steve F.

Holmfirth, United Kingdom

$65/hr
5.0
197 jobs
There is no vision so vast, intimate, or out there that it cannot be communicated perfectly with the right words. I write for corporations that want their kids to like them and independent creators who want their parents to respect them. With an artistic background, an eye for structure, and a compulsion for wit and lyricism, I've tended to succeed where corporate meets consumer and where independents strive for high levels of creativity and professionalism. I employ color, elegance, intelligence, humor, wordplay, a few winks, and much hard work to ensure my clients are happy. My unique angle stems from my dual areas of expertise: on the one hand, I am a well-disciplined agency writer, comfortable delivering complex work on time and within budget; on the other, I am a musician, freelancer, and contrarian who can transition seamlessly into poetry, wit, irreverence, and pithy commentary. Clients most often bring me in to: —Ghostwrite memoirs and personal transformation stories that feel rich, human, and voice-driven (including for Olympic athletes, founders, and creatives). —Write brand scripts, keynote speeches, and web copy that blend sharp messaging with emotional punch. —Craft children’s books—sometimes rhyming, often offbeat, always memorable—with emotional clarity and playfulness. Every project is different—but if the story matters, I’m in. Upwork clients have said of their experience working with me (taken from my testimonials) … —“I must say, he is nothing short of remarkable. Steve is not only incredibly talented but also an amazing human being.” —“I have yet to ask him for help on a project that he hasn’t vastly improved the idea. He is a testament to the writing profession.” —“Steve is a gift of a human. I'm glad to have met and worked with him. He truly has exceptional talent.” —“Steve did a fantastic job on a challenging assignment.” —“Usually, when I work with freelancers, the work takes weeks to months. He had it done in days and turnover in less than 24 hours. Possibly one of the best freelancers I've worked with.” —“Steve knocked our project out of the ballpark!” —“Steve is a brilliant, creative writer with a totally professional attitude. Working with him was sheer joy.” And it would be my job to ensure you are equally happy. Contacting me won’t cost you a thing. I would love to hear from you. Reliable — creative ghostwriter — creative writing — video scripts — speech writing — branding — children's literature — rhyming books — memoirs — novels — non-fiction — coaching — structure — humor.
  • Short Story Writing
  • Short Story
  • Creative Writing
  • Children's Literature
  • Ghostwriting
  • Branding
  • Content Writing
  • Editing & Proofreading
  • Developmental Editing
  • Novel Writing
  • Scriptwriting
  • Speech Writing
  • Memoir Writing
  • Story Writing
  • Book Editing
Feranmi I.

Akure, Nigeria

$20/hr
4.8
22 jobs
I started writing screenplays and stories (well, screenplays are technically stories) because I have a passion to bring the images in my head to life, regardless of how strange or weird they might be. Ever since I started my career officially as a screenwriter I have been looking for projects that would spur the creative well in me, to create unique and innovative stories. I have been fortunate to work on some amazing projects as listed below. I worked with Limitless Animation as one of the early script writers who kick-started the Omoberry project; a kids animation project that has gained popularity. I worked on the explainer video for a company that was presenting a new app known as Kiddiebox. I handled the screenplay of an animation of a music video with Credenceville animations. I have worked on a variety of projects with clients on Upwork, where I have handled a good number of projects which includes: - I worked on a film project as a co-writer. I created scenes and dialogues and presented a well-detailed movie script. - working on a short story for a children's publication - writing the pilot episode for an anime I look forward to working with you to create even more amazing projects.
  • Short Story Writing
  • Short Story
  • Creative Writing
  • Ghostwriting
  • English
  • Writing
  • Scriptwriting
  • Lyrics Writing
  • Screenwriting
  • Fiction Writing
  • Proofreading
  • Movie
Charlotte B.

Whitchurch, United Kingdom

$50/hr
4.9
113 jobs
My love of prose and fictional worlds led me to study for a bachelor's Degree in English and Writing, followed by a Master's Degree in Creative Writing. I chose to be a freelance writer because I enjoy using my skills to create quality work for my clients, whether this is writing outlines or bringing fictional ideas to life. Regardless of what the project consists of, I value how important words are and how, when used correctly, they hold the power to leave an imprint. I have plenty of experience in creating new places, people, and events, as I’ve worked on projects from short stories to an ongoing book series, from children’s fiction to stories for adults, and from science fiction to thrillers. Whether you need assistance with your story arc, character development, the creation of your story, or you’re just after someone to glance over your work and advise, then I can assist with this. My fascination with creating new worlds and my intrigue with all things dystopia have led me to write three young adult science fiction novels. To me writing isn’t just work, it’s also my passion, hobby, and purpose. I reside in the UK but am proficient at writing in both British English and American English. Above all else, I’m professional, friendly, quick to respond, and full of creative ideas that I want to unleash.
  • Short Story Writing
  • Creative Writing
  • Children's Writing
  • English
  • Story Development
  • Fantasy
  • Science Fiction
  • Blog Writing
  • Ghostwriting
  • Content Writing
  • Book Writing
  • Fiction Writing
  • Article Writing
  • Storytelling
  • Novel Writing
Charles R.

Seattle, Washington

$50/hr
4.9
34 jobs
Welcome! I'm a professional ghostwriter with about ten years of experience, specializing in history and detailed research. My favorite clients are the ones who need help sharing their stories and passions. I feel the most at home in the realm of historical fiction, but I'm just as capable in a non-fiction setting. True stories are always the most rewarding. I pride myself on communication, and work well with critiques; client feedback is always respected, and I am happy to work with you until satisfaction is reached. Whether it's science fiction, a romantic romp through Scotland, an academic dissertation, or anywhere in between, let me help you tell your story. I look forward to hearing from you.
  • Short Story Writing
  • Short Story
  • History
  • Creative Writing
  • Nonfiction
  • English
  • Fiction Writing
  • Scientific Literature Review
  • English Tutoring
  • Research Papers
  • Storytelling
Alyssa B.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

$35/hr
4.9
144 jobs
Storytelling has been a passion of mine since I was a child and I've spent the past six years turning that passion into a career. I graduated from Arcadia University in 2018 where I studied communications, creative writing, and cinema. I've participated in several workshops in and out of school to help sharpen my skills as a writer. As a ghostwriter, collaboration is important to me. I am always available to talk and discuss new ideas with clients. It is my job to take your ideas and turn them into fully fledged stories. I'm detail oriented, focused, and organized so you can trust that I am on top of all the projects I'm working on. As a developmental editor, my experience with narrative storytelling will help you refine your manuscripts. I will read your manuscript and leave comments in the document highlighting specific suggestions. You will also receive a detailed editorial report. When I'm not working on projects for clients, I'm working on my own romantic comedies that I'm hoping to publish within the next year!
  • Short Story Writing
  • Creative Writing
  • English
  • Fantasy
  • Ebook Writing
  • Romance
  • Fiction Writing
  • Article Writing
  • Report Writing
  • Writing
  • Adobe After Effects
  • Quiz Writing
  • Screenwriting
  • Beta Reading
  • Blog Writing
Tiffany M.

Heflin, Alabama

$20/hr
4.9
20 jobs
I am a creative problem solver. I am a hard worker and think outside of the box. I pay close attention to detail, love to work with others, enjoy new challenges, and never quit. I am currently a Vacation Experience Architect with Wishes Travel and am also working as a freelance writer. I am passionate about my family, travel, writing, books, and Jesus.
  • Short Story Writing
  • Short Story
  • Ghostwriting
  • Writing
  • Scriptwriting
  • Acting
  • Movie
  • Script
  • Fiction Writing
  • Fantasy
  • Copywriting
  • Novel
  • Ebook
  • Voice Acting
  • Documentary
  • Mystery

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How to Hire Top Short Story Writers

How to hire short story writers

From pop periodicals to fan fiction, short story writers are here to help put your ideas to paper.

So how do you hire short story writers? What follows are some tips for finding top short story writers on Upwork.

How to shortlist short story writing professionals

As you’re browsing available short story writing contractors, it can be helpful to develop a shortlist of the professionals you may want to interview. You can screen profiles using criteria such as:

  • Genre fit. You want a writer who understands the type of short story you wish to tell.
  • Project experience. Screen candidate profiles for specific skills and experience (e.g., instructional design background for incorporating short stories into an online course).
  • Feedback. Check reviews from past clients for glowing testimonials or red flags that can tell you what it’s like to work with a particular short story writer.

How to write an effective short story writing job post

With a clear picture of your ideal short story writer in mind, it’s time to write that job post. Although you don’t need a full job description as you would when hiring an employee, aim to provide enough detail for a contractor to know if they’re the right fit for the project.

An effective short story writing job post should include:

  • Scope of work: From periodicals to anthologies, list all the deliverables you’ll need.
  • Project length: Your job post should indicate whether this is a smaller or larger project.
  • Background: If you prefer experience with certain genres or subject-matter expertise, mention this here.
  • Budget: Set a budget and note your preference for hourly rates vs. fixed-price contracts.

Log in and post your short story writing job on Upwork today.

SHORT STORY WRITER FAQ

What is a short story?

A short story is a type of prose that is generally intended to be read in one sitting. This brevity generally means a short story, even when part of an anthology or series, can be enjoyed as a self-contained complete narrative.

Here’s a quick overview of the skills you should look for in short story writing professionals:

  • Short story writing
  • Creative writing
  • Ghostwriting
  • Proofreading and editing

Why hire a short story writer?

The trick to finding top short story writers is to identify your needs. Is your goal to find a published author to regularly contribute content to your romance themed blog? Or are you looking for a ghostwriter to bring your pulp fiction short to life? The cost of your project will depend largely on your scope of work and the specific skills needed to bring your project to life.

How much does it cost to hire a short story writer?

Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.

  • An experienced short story writer may command higher fees but also work faster, have more specialized areas of expertise, and deliver a higher-quality product.
  • A contractor who is still in the process of building a client base may price their short story writing more competitively.

Which one is right for you will depend on the specifics of your project.

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