Ghostwriting, Book Coaching, and Editing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Hi. Welcome. If you found this page, then you’re probably thinking about writing a book. Congratulations. It’s a big step. If done right, it can be transformative, both for your career and your life.
We’ve been in the book business for a long time. We love our jobs. We’ve created all kinds of books for all kinds of people. Some have been bestsellers and won awards. Others have had print runs in the single digits with a copy for mom, Uncle Lou, and the grandkids. When done with care, intention, and honesty, the impact of any project can be extraordinary no matter the scale.
But before you decide if you’re ready to write your book, you have important questions. No worries. We have answers.
Q: Why should I hire a ghostwriter?
Many business leaders have something important and meaningful to say yet go years without getting it said. Meanwhile, they’re missing important business opportunities. A book:
- gives instant credibility.
- works as a lead magnet.
- establishes you as a thought leader in your field.
- brings in speaking engagements and PR.
- forces you to think about your business and yourself in a deeper, more focused way.
- gives you the power to change the lives of your readers, turning them into your biggest fans.
The ROI on a book is considerable before you even sell a single copy.
But friends don’t let friends write their own books. First, because they’ll talk about it endlessly, but never actually get it done. And second, because it won’t be of the quality necessary to make a good impression.
Q: Isn’t hiring a ghostwriter cheating?
No one expects you to renovate your own kitchen, do your own graphic design, or cut your own hair. But somehow, the world seems to think that you ought to be able to write your own book.
That’s ridiculous. In truth, most authors don’t write their own non-fiction books. Some estimates say 70% of non-fiction books are ghostwritten. We suspect that number is even higher. Experts matter. You’re a professional yourself, so you know that. If you want your book to look and sound professional, hire a professional.
Q: Can you make me a bestseller?
No. But we know who can. (Hint: he’s a marketer.)
Q: Will the book sound like me?
Yes. That’s the most important part of the job. Ghosts are invisible. Your voice shines through.
Q: Can you show me examples of your work?
Due to the private nature of ghostwriting, we only share work for which we have permission from the author. Please look around this website to see case studies of work we’ve done and testimonials from past clients. We can send pages privately of some works on request.
Q: How exactly does this work? What’s your process?
Every project is different, but it typically goes something like this:
1. WE CHAT
We’ll schedule a free, introductory call to talk about your project. At the end, you’ll have:
- A full understanding of the ghostwriting or coaching process.
- A path forward. If we’re not the right fit for you, we’ll refer you to someone who is.
2. WE SCHEDULE A STRATEGY SESSION
You talk. We listen. We ask questions. You answer. We dig deeper. Why do you want to write this book? What are your specific goals? What does success look like? When we fully understand your vision for your book, we’ll write a book plan. We’ll meet again to fine tune it until it’s exactly what you envision. When we’re done, you’ll have:
- A comprehensive outline that becomes the blueprint for your finished book as well as a roadmap for how to get it done in 6-9 months. You can take this and write the book yourself, take it to another ghostwriter, or if we’re a good fit, we can move forward together.
- A publishing goal. Is your project right for a traditional publisher, indie, hybrid, or self-publishing? If you don’t know what any of that means, don’t worry. That’s why we’re here.
3. WE WRITE YOUR BOOK.
We work chapter by chapter. First, we talk through the chapter. Then, we write it. You read it, and we talk again. We revise. Wash, rinse, and repeat until it’s perfect. In the end you’ll have:
- A final manuscript ready for publication.
Q: Alright. Enough chit-chat. What’s this going to cost?
Glad You Asked
We understand that price can be one of the biggest hurdles to completing your book. Every project is unique, and our pricing reflects that. Costs can vary depending on factors such as the level of research required and the amount of material you already have, such as blogs, webinars, or speeches.
We’re committed to working with you to make your book achievable within your budget. Flexible payment plans are available, and we offer discounts for upfront payments of 50% or more. Whether you’re looking for ghostwriting services or coaching and editing support, we’ll help you find the right option for your goals and resources.
GHOSTWRITING SERVICES
Strategy Session
$650-$1,200
Setting a firm foundation is the first step of writing any book. This includes 2 hours of talk. You get a document outlining your book from 30,000-feet and a blueprint of how you can get it done. We deduct the cost from the final package if we keep working together.
Ghostwriting: We write your book.
COACHING AND EDITING SERVICES
Editing an existing manuscript.
It depends on the amount of editing required and how long your book is. In general, $2,400-$6,000. Again, we can sometimes find ways to bring these costs down. Let’s talk.
Book coaching with editing: You write. We read. We edit. Repeat.
$2,200/month, six-month minimum.
We act as project managers, mentors, developmental editors, line-editors, butt-kickers, and cheerleaders.
Blog or other content writing.
Let’s talk.
Q: Do these prices include publishing?
No. Books have three stages:
- Writing
- Publishing
- Marketing
Once we deliver your polished manuscript, you’re done phase 1. Congratulations! This is a huge step. After this, our job as ghostwriter, editor, or book coach is done. My team and I can absolutely help you navigate stages 2 and 3, but those services are not included in ghostwriting, coaching, or editing fees. If you’re interested in publishing and marketing services, book a chat and we can discuss.