Stephanie Chou

Stephanie Chou – Editor

Experienced editor specializing in copyediting and proofreading genre fiction. I've never met a sentence I couldn't diagram!

Overview

I've enjoyed being an editor since 2015, working with a wide range of authors and project types, from traditionally published novels to self-published memoirs to government reports to card games. Most frequently, I follow Chicago style, but I'm able to apply AP, APA, MLA, and other style guides as needed.

My editing approach is to partner with the author, absorbing their voice and style so that my edits complement and enhance their writing. It's so fulfilling to work alongside authors and support their books, and I feel that my intimate knowledge of Chicago style allows me to understand when it's best to apply those rules rigidly and when it's okay to make exceptions. This flexibility is paired with a strong work ethic and love of literature, and I guarantee authors' satisfaction by explaining my edits and making sure we both understand each other's goals. Plus, I'm not above getting my hands dirty with some field testing to make sure the books are as realistic as possible! My husband's a great sport--more than once, I've accosted him as he walked innocently past and roped him into acting out fight scenes so I can ensure they flow well.

Past clients I've worked with are a varied bunch: everyone from self-published authors to debut authors to New York Times and Washington Post bestsellers and National Book Award winners. (Please note that because of NDAs, I haven't included forthcoming books below.) My favorite genres are crime and psychological thrillers, literary fiction, and fantasy, but I also enjoy and have significant experience editing romance, book club and women's fiction, YA fiction, and children's books. I'd love to help polish your book and support your publication goals!
Services
Fiction
Action & Adventure Christian Fiction Historical Fiction Humor & Comedy Mystery & Crime Science Fiction Thriller & Suspense Urban Fantasy
Languages
English (US)

Work experience

N/A

Feb, 2015 — Present

As a freelancer, I work with midsize traditional publishing imprints and directly with authors.

Stephanie has 35 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Jason J.

Jason J.

Aug, 2024

Stephanie is a fantastic editor and proofreader. She will work with you and will work with 'your voice' as a writer. She will cite the reasons for her choices (ie, she will tell you that certain a change is based on the Chicago Manual of Style). But she will let the writer choose how to handle her suggested change. Stephanie is based in Hawaii. That time delay may be a deal breaker for some wri...
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Patrick G.

Patrick G.

Jul, 2024

Stephanie was an excellent proof reader who adapted to the specific needs of my book and timeline. Knowing she did such a thorough and detailed job has made me far more confident about publishing my work. Highly recommended.
Connor M.

Connor M.

Jul, 2024

Stephanie has been an absolute pleasure to work with. Top marks in all categories. I specifically appreciate how easy it has been for us to discuss not only the edits but the timelines and due dates. Everything has felt smooth and open with our communication, which is a must for me. Thanks so much for your hard work!
Julia B.

Julia B.

Jul, 2024

Stephanie was great to work with, they were very understanding when I had trouble with my payment problems and was very communicative with everything. They did a fanatic job going though my book finding all my errors and helped me with a bunch of little issues that helped with explanations. Would hire again when I finish my second book in the future.
Meghan B.

Meghan B.

Jul, 2024

Excellent! Stephanie made the process so easy and provided a lot of good feedback.

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