About

After years of supporting authors across the publishing industry, I realized a crucial truth: it takes a village to publish a book. Whether you are self-publishing or taking the traditional path, magic happens when you have a specialist at your side who can nurture your craft with undivided attention—something agents and in-house editors can’t always offer.

I launched Meagan Irby Editorial in 2025 to serve authors in this exact way.

I specialize in developmental editing, book proposal writing, and nonfiction ghostwriting for writers of all levels. My goal is to dive deep into each story and find creative, detailed solutions to help it resonate with its audience. I’m committed to preserving voice while enhancing impact, whether you have a publishing deal or want to increase your chances of getting one.

I’ve worked with multiple bestselling and award-winning authors of fiction and nonfiction. Before starting my business, I worked at WME Books, where I helped evaluate, edit, and pitch new works, as well as secure over a dozen deals with Big 5 publishers. I came to WME after serving as Assistant Editor to author and “book doula” Rea Frey, developing projects such as a USA Today bestselling self-help book and over twenty nonfiction book proposals.

I graduated summa cum laude from Belmont University with a Bachelor of Arts in Publishing. I’m based in my hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, but I work with writers everywhere. While my taste is varied, I’m most drawn to literary and upmarket fiction, light speculative fiction, transformation memoirs, and holistic health books.

I’m a former dancer who has worked with creative people her whole life. I hold a deep fascination with the body and the transformative power of storytelling in all its forms. When I’m not working, you can find me tap dancing in my kitchen, enjoying deep conversations with friends, or listening to vinyl records with my partner.

What My Clients Say

"Meagan was instrumental in supporting my manuscript of my USA TODAY Bestseller, THE LIGHT WORK. With her, I didn't only have an editor, I had a true creative partner. She was passionate, accountable, honest and geniusly creative. By the time I turned in my rough draft, my publisher barely had any notes. That would not have been possible without her. She truly helped me structure it masterfully, and I am forever grateful for her genius fingerprints all over that body of work."

Jessica Zweig, bestselling author
of THE LIGHT WORK and BE., 3x entrepreneur,
and business and branding coach

"Meagan is a brilliant writer and editor who elevates every project she touches. Her attention to detail, articulateness, and unwavering dedication make her a dream to work with."

Margaret Riley King, Partner and Literary Agent
at William Morris Endeavor

"Meagan edits like a detective working a cold case—she makes sure every I is dotted and every T is crossed until your work is flawless. She manages to seamlessly match an author’s voice to be able to help shape their vision without imposing her own, and she does all that at warp speed. Highly recommended!"

Rory Uphold, writer and host of
the Crimes of the Heart podcast

"Meagan is the best editor I have ever worked with. She is smart, professional, efficient, and driven. A total professional who adds depth and insight to every project."

Rea Frey, #1 bestselling author, Book Doula,
and creator of Unreachable