About Me
Stacia L. Chapman
Editor & Book Lover
I have a passion for working with writers, whether it be those who are considering self-publishing, traditional publishing, or non-traditional publishing.
As an editorial staff member for Fiddler Magazine and Blue Fortune Press, my editing experience covers a range of genres and topics. I also received a Master’s Degree in Social Work and have worked in the mental health field in a variety of positions.
In my work as an editor, my primary responsibility is to help authors produce their best work through ensuring ease of reading, accuracy, and consistency, while retaining the author’s voice and style. As a writer myself, I understand the investment my clients have in their work and how scary it can feel to send a manuscript to an editor for suggestions and help. That is why I take a personal and collaborative approach when working with authors. I provide helpful, honest, and caring services because I have a passion for helping people. My other career has been as a mental health counselor for over 25 years (for more information about this, see the Specialties page). I enjoy getting to know people and what they care about, in this case, writing. I also follow the lead of the authors I work with. This is the author’s work, not mine, and at the end of our collaboration, I want my clients to see the best possible version of their manuscript.
Here is what you can expect:
If you choose to work with me, we will communicate about your wishes for your project, and I will help you build upon your strengths and filter out anything that does not help your manuscript shine.
As a graduate of the University of Chicago Graham School’s rigorous editing program, along with my experience with writing fiction and non-fiction, you can feel confident that your final draft will be ready to publish, presented to an agent, or submitted to a publishing house.
Perhaps most importantly, I love books. I have been reading constantly since early childhood, won a few spelling bees, and continued to hone the art-and-craft of writing and editing through graduate school. I love reading books, editing them, and supporting libraries and independent bookstores. My reading interests are vast, and I would be honored to work together on your project.
Did I mention how much I love bookstores?
When I am not reading, writing, or editing, I am probably planning my next trip around visiting another independent bookstore. I look forward to seeing your book on the shelves!
Memberships and Associations:
- Editorial Freelancers Association
- ACES – The Society for Editing
- Board Member, Williamsburg Book Festival