What is a ghostwriter?

A ghostwriter is simply someone who helps someone else to write a book. Because the process is so varied, I tend to use the terms ‘ghostwriter’ and ‘editor’ interchangeably.

 

How does the process start?

The editor or ghostwriter sits down with the person who wishes to write a book – the author – and has a preliminary conversation about their ambitions for the project. What do they want to write about? Why do they want to write? Who are they writing for? What ground do they wish to cover and so on. From here, the editor will take that conversation and build an outline of the work ahead.

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Getting the relationship right

This initial meeting is important because it allows editor and author to get to know each other a little better. Getting the relationship right is very important.

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Next steps

From here, the process is as varied as you’d expect. Sometimes, the people I work with have already started writing, and need someone to either reinvigorate the process or help them to get to the end. But often, the would-be author doesn’t quite know where to begin, or if they do, they need help to get their story onto the page.

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Interviews

Typically, the editor would extract the material for the book through a series of one to two-hour interviews. I plan for between ten and twelve of these. Sometimes we need a little more, sometimes a little less. The interviews are then transcribed. I often do this work myself, but sometimes I hire transcribers to help. AI transcribing sites are also becoming more powerful.

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It’s not always interviews

Sometimes too, the author will have additional materials – recordings, blogs, podcasts, course materials – which can be used to supplement or even replace interview material.

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Getting the voice right

I usually wait until the end of the interview stage before beginning the writing process – mainly because the next step is to draw up an outline of the book, which would be difficult to do without knowing the full story. In addition, the interview process is vital in allowing me to develop an ear for the author’s modes of speech – their voice in other words. It’s important when I sit down to begin writing that I’ve soaked that in thoroughly so that I’m able to reproduce it effectively on the page. Getting the voice right is, without doubt, the most important part of the project. It’s also the bit I love most.

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The first and second drafts

Once the structure is agreed, I begin editing the transcripts to create at a first draft. I usually send the author each chapter as it’s finished, they review and feedback, and I log the requested changes ahead of writing the second draft. When all of the annotated chapters are back with me, I begin the second draft. I usually find that this is very close to the final draft, but there will always be amendments and changes of mind, right up to the end of the process, and I always commit to sticking with the work at the agreed price until the author is 100% delighted with and proud of the book they have created.

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How long does it take?

Once the 10 to 12 week interview process is finished, outlining and completing a first draft usually takes about 12 weeks. A second draft is usually produced in about half that time.

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If I work with a ghostwriter, do I still own the copyright?

Absolutely. Your story is your story. A ghostwriter is only there to help you get it down on paper. They don't have any claim over your work. I never look for a credit on anyone else's book.

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What does it cost?

Every project is different. Give me a call or drop me a line to talk about your project and I’ll come back with a quote.

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Also…

It's worth pointing out just how enjoyable it is to work with someone to create your book and/or tell your story. Most of the clients I’ve worked with over the years will talk about the unexpected joy of the journey.

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Any other questions?

Send me an email, or call/message 087 4162739