Question 1

What is ghostwriting?

Accepted Answer

A ghostwriter is someone who works behind the scenes. They spend time with the subject of a book or memoir in question, often over several hours of conversation, before writing a novel or autobiography in that person's style and voice.

It can sound like a very grand idea, which is why it might be easier to think of the service as memoir-writing. This can take the form of a short life history, a more in-depth, comprehensive overview, a novel of any genre, or even diary extracts edited to run in a linear way. It may be that you're not yet sure what sort of format you want the story to take - we can discuss this together and make sure you're happy with the plan presented.

My clients tend to fall into three categories: those who would like to record their life experiences for friends and family, those with a specific story to tell (a life-changing event / a time of great difficulty / a professional accomplishment / a how-to guide, to list just a few), or those keen to create a novel or autobiography with a view to eventual publication and a wide readership. This is why no two clients are the same.

Question 2

Why would I hire a ghostwriter?

Accepted Answer

This is a common question that has two answers. The first relates to time. You may have wanted to write your book, record your experiences, edit your memoirs for years, but life gets in the way. With Spirited, all you need to do is commit to a limited number of one-to-one discussions, and allow the writer to do the rest.

The second reason for hiring a ghostwriter is the writing itself. You may have a wonderful novel, autobiography or essay itching to get out, but feel daunted about how to set it all down and structure it in a readable, accessible and exciting way. Again, that's where Spirited comes in.

Question 3

I need to get this done quickly. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

In short, yes. If you can commit to a certain number of interviews within the space of a few days, the turnaround could be as little as a week, depending on the amount of words you have selected.

Question 4

What does the service cost?

Accepted Answer

For set prices relating to ghostwriting and memoirs, please refer to the Costs page. There are a variety of different packages depending on your requirements, but it's also possible to build-your-own book based on what you need and what you can afford.

We are keen to ensure the services provided are as accessible as possible. If you are unwaged, on a low income or would like to discuss ways to reduce the cost, we are happy to work with you to agree a revised fee. It is also possible to space out payments. Ordinarily, we invoice in halves or thirds: for instance, once before interviews begin and again before starting work on your manuscript.

If you would like a specific editing service - of a pre-existing book, set of notes or manuscript - it would be best to get in touch to discuss. We charge per hour, and can work with you to assess the amount of time it'll take to edit and polish your pre-existing manuscript before providing a quote. In short, do reach out in the first instance and we can discuss the option that would suit you best.

Question 5

My story isn't worth telling - why would this be for me?

Accepted Answer

Lots of people feel a bit intimidated by the prospect of writing a book, polishing an existing one or recording their memoirs. It's the most common concern I hear before interviews begin. Many of us feel our stories aren't interesting or aren't worth telling: time and again, this is proved wrong!

Whether you're 95 or 25, life happens around us every day, but we experience it differently. It can be incredibly worthwhile and valuable to ensure your recollections, however brief, are set down for the future. The majority of my clients begin by feeling they will never be able to provide enough information for a book, and end up wanting to create another.

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