Ghostwriting

I started writing my first novel several times before I finally got there. I was like most people starting out, holding down a job by day and writing stories and screenplays on weekends and late into the evenings.

In the end, it was an unexpected set of circumstances that gave me the time and support I needed to commit to the big push and realise my ambition.

By the time I self-published my debut, the bug had well and truly bitten. I wanted to write more, but rather than just continue in the same way, I decided to take the step into making a career out of writing. I replied to a job advertisement from an agency looking for new writers, and after passing the initial evaluations, I was invited to join their approved list.

I realised that many others shared the same dream of crafting a novel, but the mysterious alignment of the stars that makes room for it to happen? Well, it doesn’t always appear just when you need it. The time to perfect the plan, develop the characters, or build the world, just isn’t there for everyone.

Within a couple of months of signing up, I had secured my first client, and the experience was so positive, that I looked for another, and another. I’m now several books further down the line.

I also discovered my niche, for writing and researching historical fiction. Each book I’ve written has covered a distinct period in history, ranging from the early days of the Roman empire, up to and including World War II.

Why might you use a ghostwriter?

It's not all about the book, there is other support you can get as you work towards releasing your finished product. At any point you might decide to do part of the work on your own, but during the lifecycle of your project there are different stages where a ghostwriter can contribute positively.

• Manuscript Outline - This is a plan for your novel. It outlines a summary of the plot, lists the major characters with details on physical characteristics and personality traits, it describes principal locations, and contains a summary description of each chapter, plus links to online research when relevant.
• Research Report - You might just need a ghostwriter to provide authentication for your setting, particularly if the story is within a certain era of history, or a little known part of the world.  This is where a research report can be helpful. It's surprising what a little additional research can add to your story, sometimes it can take you into areas you never foresaw, and open up ideas for new sub-plots and characters.
• Writing The Book - If the preliminary work is done, the questions are all asked ...and answered, then you're in the right place to get the project underway. You'll have a good idea of the costs, the time to complete, and how the writing will progress through various milestones. Your ghostwriter will have explained the way they will work with you, and how they'll report and measure progress. An agreement will be signed by both parties, and then the work can begin.
• Supporting Material - Depending on whether you want to aim for traditional publishing or online self-publishing, there are various types of supporting text you can use to help generate interest from literary agents, or target direct marketing of your book online. This will be a set of bespoke options designed to suit your exact requirements.

So where do you even start?

You have the idea. You could have a character list and thoughts about the setting. You might have written text that you just want to improve. Every project starts in its own unique way.

Your budget will determine your next step, but I would always recommend that you approach a company that can offer you choice and a range of fees. The individual writer's experience will determine their price. There can also be variations in the finished word count on offer. That's why it's important that you can view a range of options before making your decision.

Rather than seeking work independently, I am represented by ghostwriting agencies. The agencies invite me, along with other approved writers, to pitch for projects, which gives clients a vetted selection of professionals to choose from.

With hindsight, 'writing the book' is something I'll always wish I had done earlier. It's an exciting prospect, a rewarding experience, and a satisfying accomplishment when you hold that first print copy in your hands.