Understanding Ghostwriting
Ghostwriting involves a professional writer crafting a book, blog post, business plan, or similar work on behalf of someone else who receives the official credit. In most arrangements, the ghostwriter remains anonymous while the credited author gains full recognition.
Professional ghostwriters specialize in creating books and articles for others in exchange for a set fee—or occasionally, a share of the royalties. Although their names usually do not appear on the finished work, some well-known ghostwriters do share credit with the public figure they assist.
This practice has become increasingly common, particularly in traditional publishing. Celebrities, chefs, actors, business leaders, and even established novelists (like James Patterson) frequently enlist ghostwriters to help bring their ideas to life.
How the Process Works
For nonfiction projects, hiring a ghostwriter often begins with an extensive interview—sometimes lasting four to six hours or more—to gather all the necessary information. This method is popular among public figures writing memoirs or experts who prefer not to devote the time required to write their own book.
In the case of fiction, the process typically includes a series of discussions or calls to establish the narrative’s setting, characters, and major plot points before any writing begins. While some ghostwriters may work with minimal direction, a collaborative approach usually yields the most consistent and satisfying results.
Crafting a Detailed Outline
Developing a clear, detailed outline is essential. By working together on the structure of the book, you and your ghostwriter can agree on the content and direction from the start.
- For Nonfiction: Create a chapter-by-chapter outline that includes subheadings and bullet points detailing the main topics and ideas for each section.
- For Fiction: A scene-by-scene breakdown can ensure a cohesive storyline. If you prefer to give your ghostwriter creative freedom without a detailed plot, be aware that the final story may be less predictable.
Establishing Firm Deadlines
Setting a strict deadline is crucial when working with a ghostwriter. Parkinson’s law suggests that work expands to fill the available time, so imposing a reasonable timeframe helps maintain focus and productivity. Avoid overly generous deadlines (such as 12 to 18 months) to prevent delays and ensure that your project remains a priority.
Professional ghostwriters recognize the importance of deadlines not only for meeting client expectations but also for optimizing their own workflow. With clear, manageable timelines, most ghostwriters can deliver a nonfiction work of 25,000 to 50,000 words or a novel of 40,000 to 80,000 words within 90 to 180 days—provided they receive timely responses and the necessary support throughout the process.
Cost Considerations
The price to hire a ghostwriter varies widely—from very affordable rates offered by emerging writers or “content hackers” to premium fees that can reach up to $100,000 for top professionals. Ultimately, the art of writing means that both quality and pricing can differ significantly based on the ghostwriter’s expertise and the specific demands of your project.
Ghostwriting Services by TruLife Books
At TruLife Books, we offer exclusive ghostwriting services to a select clientele. Our dedicated team of expert writers is capable of producing high-quality nonfiction and fiction works at competitive rates, with turnaround times typically ranging from 90 to 180 days depending on the scope of your project.
Whether you need a compelling memoir, a detailed business guide, or a captivating novel, TruLife Books is committed to delivering a professional, polished final product tailored to your vision.