FAQs

Does my story have potential?

Sometimes, a subject is unsure whether their story is publishable. More often, however, a subject knows his or her story has potential but doesn’t know how to structure it.

‘People keep telling me I should write a book about my experiences, but I don’t know where or how to start. How do I piece it all together?’ clients frequently ask. I have interviewed people from all walks of life and have a natural instinct for the intriguing detail.

During a free consultation, I will ask the relevant questions to draw from you the best material to assess your story from all angles. I will identify your target audience, suggest where your writing project fits in the market, and gauge its commercial appeal. I will also flag any obvious legal issues and recommend the best options for your idea. For example, can your story carry the length of an 80,000-word memoir? Or would it make a 30,000-word e-book? Maybe your story would be best told as a feature in a magazine or newspaper? In blog form even? Whichever format your idea fits, I will help you structure it into an engaging and compelling read.

How does the ghostwriting process work?

Once you decide to work with me on your book idea, a collaboration agreement is signed. My favourite aspect of being a ghostwriter – aside from the writing itself – is immersing myself in the role of capturing an author’s true voice, so much so that I begin to think, talk and act like that person.

I take great pride in drawing the best stories from authors and bringing their personalities to life on the page, allowing them to engage directly with their readers without any suspicion a ghost was present. To make this happen, I will interview the author for at least 20 hours over several sittings.

Next, I will transcribe and print those recorded conversations and write a chapter plan. Often, I will want to interview the author’s friends and family members who are part of his or her story. Sometimes I’ll ask for photographs or any necessary documents that support the author’s claims. I will consult with the author at every stage while writing the book.

How long will it take to write my book?

This depends on the subject, the proposed length of the book, and the amount of research involved. However, a 60,000 to 80,000-word memoir will take between four to eight months to complete. 

How much does it cost?

Again, this varies according to the type of project and amount of work involved. Please see my services page for prices.

So, you’re a ghostwriter…but why isn’t your name on the cover?

Ghostwriters are hired to write for authors in such a way that the text reads as though they have written it themselves. Therefore, ghosts don’t expect to be credited. However, it’s always nice when an author thanks you in their acknowledgements. Sometimes a ghost’s name will be credited on a book’s cover or title page, preceded by the words: ‘as told to’ or ‘with’. I recognise that each story, in its own unique form, belongs to its author.