Ghostwriting FAQs

What is a ghostwriter?

A ghostwriter or “ghost” is an experienced writer who helps someone else write their book. You might have a great idea for a book but don’t know where to start with your structure or you might struggle to get your thoughts down in a clear way. That’s where I come in.

Who uses ghostwriters?

Anyone can use a ghostwriter. I have worked with celebrities and non-celebs. All I ask is that you commit to the project. I will need to conduct a series of interviews with you to get the relevant detail needed to write the book.

How does ghostwriting work?

I like to work collaboratively. It’s your name on the book, not mine, so you need to be happy. We generally start off with a chat about the proposal of the book and what you want to achieve. We discuss timeframes - you might already have a deadline from a publisher - and then set up a series of interviews to draw your story and expertise out. I create a structure for the book and using your interviews, I add the content to chapters within that. I’m involved from start to finish - from proposal to final edits.

What does a ghostwriter do?

A good ghostwriter draws out their author’s personality and tone of voice to create a written document that feels like it was written by the author. We take all the hard work out of writing. We get your messy, creative thoughts into an order and structure that works for a book format. We handle the editing process alongside your publishing house. We can even help you do your proposal.

Is ghostwriting illegal or unethical?

No. We draw up a contract that states clearly that the work is your IP and work. I sign an NDA so no one needs to know you’ve used a ghostwriter (although you can tell people if you want).

How much does ghostwriting cost?

It depends on the timescale we’re working to and the length of the book plus where you’re at in terms of the process e.g. if you need help creating a proposal or if that has already been agreed by your publisher. My prices start at £12,000.

Who can become a ghostwriter?

A good ghostwriter has excellent writing capabilities and is a skilled interviewer. They need to be able to get across the author’s tone of voice and personality via written word. A well-crafted ghostwritten book should feel like talking to the author.

What kinds of projects can be ghostwritten?

Any written project can be ghostwritten. Autobiographies, self-help, non-fiction, fiction, children’s books, the list is endless. Perhaps you just want to tell your own story or that of your parents/ grandparents to pass down through your family. You don’t have to have a publishing deal to use a ghostwriter.

Will my identity be kept confidential?

Yes. I sign an NDA which means I can’t discuss the project or author I’m working with. You own the IP and are the named author of the work. I won’t be associated with it in any way (unless you want me to be).

How long does ghostwriting take?

It depends on the project and your availability for interview. It also depends on your publisher’s deadline if you have one. I’ve written a 60,000 word non-fiction book in 5 months before. Please be aware that if you have a very tight deadline there will be a rush fee associated.

Who owns the copyright to the finished work?

You do. It’s your IP and copyright. I’m here to help you deliver that in a written format but I have no claims on your work and we sign a contract to that effect.