Let's Write Your Book

Want to discuss your book idea—or simply learn more about ghostwriting and publishing in general? Email alison@ask-communications.com to book a free 30-minute consultation.
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Q: Why would I write a book?
A: A book gives credibility, establishes your authority in your field, and works as a lead magnet. It can be used to generate PR, land speaking engagements, and connect with new audiences. You can also adapt a book for other purposes, like speeches, blogs, and podcasts (to name just a few ideas). As an added bonus, you also get to tell people at dinner parties, "I wrote a book!"
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Q: Why should I work with a ghostwriter?
A: You have an amazing book idea and valuable expertise to share. Great. But getting that idea and expertise down on the page in an engaging, cohesive way that will captivate your readership is a big task. A ghostwriter has the experience and skills to craft a compelling narrative that will connect with others in a meaningful way.
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Q: Do I need a ghostwriter, editor, or book coach?
A: It depends on how much of your own writing you want to do (or have already done). Ghostwriting is the fastest and easiest way to get your words on the page (which is also why it costs more). I'm happy to talk you through the differences between book ghostwriting versus developmental editing versus book coaching, and to advise on which service best suits your needs.
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Q: Can I read your work?
A: Due to the discrete nature of ghostwriting, I can only share my work when the author has given me explicit permission to do so. I have provided links to a few instances in which this is the case in the recent projects section of this website. You can also view testimonials from editors, authors, and publishing professionals who have worked with me on my LinkedIn profile.
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Q: How does the process work?
​A: Every book is unique, so the process may differ depending on your needs. In general, ghostwriting looks something like this:
1.) Free Intro Call: We schedule a 30-minute intro call to determine your needs (ghostwriting, editing, book coaching) and publishing options (self, traditional, hybrid). If I am not the best fit for your project, I can help you find a pro through my network.
2.) Strategy Session/Book Roadmap: The strategy session goes deeper into the purpose and content of your book. Who is the target audience? What are your goals? Once I understand what success looks like for your book, we develop a Book Roadmap, a chapter-by-chapter outline that includes core topics and key messages. You can use it as a guide to write the book yourself, bring it to another ghostwriter, or—if we are a good fit and you want to keep working with me—as the basis for a partnership with me.
3.) Writing Your Book: The basic process: We talk; I write; you review; I revise as needed. We cover one chapter per week, each one with a 90-minute Zoom call.
 
Q: What's this going to cost me?
Exact costs depend on the scope and complexity of your project. Here's a general breakdown, to give you some idea of what to expect:

• Intro Call: Free! The 30-minute intro call is no cost, no obligation.

• Strategy Session/Book Roadmap: $750. This fee includes two hours of discussion over Zoom plus the Book Roadmap, a comprehensive chapter-by-chapter outline of your book. You can use the Book Roadmap to write the book yourself, bring it to another ghostwriter, or, if you want to move ahead with me as your ghostwriter, we can use it as we craft your manuscript together.

• Book Ghostwriting: If you want me to ghostwrite your book, fees range from $30,000 to $80,000+. Many factors influence costs, including manuscript length, research requirements, timeline considerations, and additional interview needs.

• Book Coaching and/or Developmental Editing: Prices for book coaching and/or developmental editing start at $3,000 per manuscript and vary according to factors like length, complexity, and time commitment.