Professional editing for authors
who care about historical details and
writing stories that feel alive, not just well-researched.
Historical Fiction
Literary Nonfiction and Memoir
Academic Writing in the Humanities
You’ve worked on this writing project for months, maybe years.
You’ve put in the time, the blood, the sweat, and the tears.
You did your research.
You pushed through writer’s block and faced down Imposter Syndrome.
Your manuscript is ready—at least as ready as it’ll ever be. Or is it?
You’re proud of your work: your story, your dissertation, your article. But you know that for your work to “fledge”—to find its wings and fly—you need to run it by another pair of eyes, preferably a pair of professional eyes that appreciates the details.
If that’s the type of editor you’re looking for, you’re in the right place
I will fall in love with your story, just as you have.
I will help you make it a story you can be proud of. That I would recommend to my friends.
To help it fly fast and far.
Meet your editor,
Stacey Michael
Why I Edit
I’m Stacey Michael, a book editor with more than 25 years in theatre and opera production, and an MFA in Opera Directing. That time on the stage taught me what makes stories move — timing, character, rhythm, and the power of authentic emotion.
I help authors shape their manuscripts with that same artistic sensibility: developing believable characters, immersive scenes, and narratives that carry readers all the way to a resonant, satisfying ending.
My areas of specialization are in historical fiction, literary fiction, speculative fiction and nonfiction that is rooted in real events, time periods, or cultural research.
I bring a director’s eye to the page. I’ll help you see how each scene plays out — where dialogue lands, when to move, and what emotional beat keeps readers turning pages.
It’s not about rules or red ink; it’s about collaboration, clarity, and craft.
Think of me as your “bookpilot”. I am kind and straightforward. I will offer you friendly, constructive feedback that maintains the integrity of your story.
I love reading and I cherish your individual voice. That’s what makes reading fun! I will respect and preserve your unique voice and style.
I will also read your book just as your eventual reader will, but my focus will be on ensuring they have a smooth reading journey.
With the utmost care and respect, my role as your editor is to help you balance accuracy with artistry — turning your carefully researched details into a vivid, unforgettable story.
Helping your book fly fast and far.
Testimonials
In a timely manner, Stacey provided exactly what I asked for. A pristine edit of my art work.
I’ve been a writer for 20 years, and have been published a few times… I know dozens of other great editors. Some marvelous, that I would cherish the opportunity to work with again. However, all of those interactions considered, this is the most professional experience I’ve had in that entire time
— Nigel Perry
After going through several edits, I was searching for someone with fresh eyes who could read the script and find further edits to correct before submitting the screenplay for consideration at a screenwriting competition.
Stacey’s edits were especially helpful as she was able to address my recurrent cultural and language communication patterns.
Aside from the prompt and excellent editing suggestions, I appreciated Stacey’s enthusiasm and great feedback on the story itself.
Thank you so much for your outstanding editing and invaluable feedback.
— Gabriela Estrada, Assistant Professor, University of Houston
I will always say that I’m my own worst editor. My website had a lot of words, and Stacey Michael with Red Pen Editing did a wonderful editing job! I’m so appreciative of her comprehensive review. I highly recommend her services.
Stacey has meticulous attention to detail and is thorough. She went above and beyond by examining the overall layout and user experience of my website. She found broken links and identified spots where the text broke differently in different viewing formats. Her keen eye for detail and comprehensive feedback helped me create a more polished and professional website. I’m grateful for her expertise and dedication, and I look forward to working with her again.
— Anisa Bear, Penrose Professional Services
Stacey was always spot on with corrections and suggestions that improved our messaging on multiple platforms (print, social media, website, special promotional materials, etc.) Stacey clearly knows her audiences and can tailor content to educate and engage accordingly. It’s no surprise that her writing skills are masterful also – always succinct and highly effective.
It makes a difference working with a consummate professional, and that’s what you get with Stacey!
— Martha Hayes, Director of Communications, Honors College, University of Houston