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Laura Garwood Meehan

Writer and Editor 

"Laura is a gem and fun to work with. I'm quite pleased."

--Anne Machonis, client

Welcome to my site!

I am an experienced editor and writer in Sacramento, California. While I specialize in editing book manuscripts for individuals or publishers (I've worked on around 50 book projects to date), I also help clients with curriculum development, note taking, business materials, articles, short stories, Web sites, and academic projects. I enjoy working with both local and remote clients, as my work is largely done electronically.

In the past, I was lifestyle department editor for intentionally urban magazine, and  senior editor for Ink&Paper Group, a Portland-based publishing company. I have been running my own business since 2006. In addition to working on my own, I also subcontract for Indigo Editing & Publications.

In terms of writing, I write web copy, articles for local and national publications, and marketing materials.

I have a bachelor's in English/French from UCLA, and a master's in writing/book publishing from PSU. I am also available for speaking at workshops and writer's conferences.




Editing Services


First, what does an editor do?

An editor collaborates with authors and writers to help them make their work the best it can be. She asks questions, provides support and advice, and simply tries to provoke a creative response in the writer. "Being edited" is not as scary as it seems, as a good editor is not there to criticize authors or their projects, but to help them solve their own problems.


Next, what kind of editing does my project need?

Many (or most) manuscripts require several rounds of editing. After I review a portion of your manuscript, I can help you determine which level of editing might be right for you. I provide a complimentary initial consultation and estimate.


Developmental or Substantive Editing

A developmental edit focuses on the larger picture. While I may make note of smaller issues, I go through the manuscript and focus on what is working and what isn't. I may prompt for further detail, or advise that a section be expanded or removed. This round is performed on manuscripts that are complete in terms of the author's writing process, but which may still need a fair amount of work.

Line or Copy Editing

This level of editing is best for manuscripts that are closer to being finished. In a line or copy edit, I edit for style, clarity, spelling, and grammar. In addition, I check facts and strive for consistency. Editing should never rid a piece of its writer's style or voice; I simply work with the writer to refine it. Most manuscripts require at least this level of editing.

Proofreading

Not to be confused with copy editing, which actually changes a manuscript, this is the final touch, essentially a run-through for typographical errors and any final inconsistencies within a completed manuscript.

Manuscript Critiques

For authors who aren't sure how to focus their  revisions, or for manuscripts that are not yet ready for editing, I can read through and write letters to the authors, providing feedback on large-scale issues such as character development and plot arc. More detailed letters are also available that include smaller-scale, page-by-page comments, along with the large-scale ones. While I generally charge an hourly rate, I provide these services for a flat rate.


If you are interested in finding out more about collaborating with me on your writing, please e-mail me: laura at laurameehan dot com. I can provide you with an estimate after an initial consultation and a review of your manuscript.



Writing Projects and Services


For those who are experts in their fields but not confident in their ability to express themselves, I can help by writing copy, making outlines, or otherwise jump-starting the writing process. I write web copy, query letters, and any other marketing materials you might need.

I also write articles on a variety of topics for local and national publications. I have written pieces for UC Davis magazine, the Oregonian, Portland Monthly magazine, the Portland Observer, Goodness magazine, in|ur magazine, and the Carmichael Times, and the Hollywood Star News. I have written everything from articles about animal health and the gluten-free dining to professional blogs about greener living.

If you are looking for writing help, or have an idea you would like to discuss, I'd be happy to talk with you!



News


I am now partnering with Sacramento State University's Conferences and Event Services department, note-taking, editing, and developing curriculum  for the university and third parties. I have enjoyed assisting at meetings for the California Health Benefit Exchange and CAL FIRE thus far.

Client Amy Hatvany strikes again: her latest book, Outside the Lines, which made its debut in February via Simon & Schuster imprint Atria Books, has been selected as Target's book club selection. It has also entered its third printing. I edited this one and look forward to seeing it in the flesh!

In April I will be teaching a one-time editing course, Editing for Writers, through Sacramento Public Library's I Street Press. Discuss the basics of editing and develop your grammar muscles, learning to revise and work with editors to increase your work’s marketability. More information to come.

The Author's Forum at WFMCStudios.org interviewed Client Linda Kuhlmann about her books The Red Boots and Koenig's Wonder. Linda is an extremely successful self-published author.  http://www.lindakuhlmann.com/LKAuthorInterviews.htm

Client Sarah Pekkanen's book, Skipping a Beat, was selected by O, The Oprah Magazine, as a "pick it up now" book for April! Find out more here. Sarah's new novel, These Girls (which I edited), will be out in April.

Colleague (and client) Kristin Thiel of Indigo Editing has had a piece selected for inclusion in the anthology Men Undressed. I was honored to get to edit this excellent, thoughtful story, which Kristin read from at Powell's Books. Visit her website at www.kristinthiel.com.

Congratulations to client Amy Hatvany, whose third book, Best Kept Secret, came out June 7, 2011. Order it now on Amazon.com! Read rave reviews by Emily Giffin, Luann Rice, and more here.

Now accepting new clients! Though I am based in Sacramento, California, I can work with anyone, anywhere. Unless a client prefers otherwise, I work electronically, meaning we can collaborate online. I successfully maintain relationships with clients in Washington, Texas, Maryland, South Carolina--you name it.

Starting immediately, I am working as associate editor for Indigo Editing & Publications! It is my pleasure to be a part of this talented team of editing colleagues. For more information, please visit Indigo's website.

I presented a workshop at the 2008 Idaho Writer's League Conference. My presentation, entitled, "But I thought they loved my manuscript: working with your publisher and editor," focused on the editorial process that begins once your manuscript has been accepted by a publisher, covering everything from the editing process to seeking permissions and the author's responsibilities. I am happy to speak to groups and classes about any editorial or writing topic.