Dear New Author,

Ghostwriter, Alan Forrest Smith here.

Let me take you back a year or two.

If you’d had your book written when you first thought about it what difference would it have made to your life, your business, your career or even your fan's perception of you? Having your book can transform everything. I know that. I have experienced that. I have seen that.

Agent or Author - I Get It

I have to assume you’re either a book agent or the new author who wants to hire the best ghostwriter for your book project.

I get it, a book is deeply personal. When written by anyone other than the author - the ghostwriter. And some things are so critical, they can determine the fate or success of your book.

For example, a good ghostwriter should capture the exact personality, character, thoughts and actions of the new author.

When I say author, I mean this. A book is written in the head of the author. If the new author - you - is not a writer hiring a ghostwriter is the best way to get that book onto paper. Not all authors are writers and that’s a fact.

So the ghostwriter must make every last effort to make sure it sounds nothing like a stranger writing - the ghostwriter - and everything like the author - you the client.

Ghostwriting The Real Character

Through a series of up-close interviews, closely observed observations, and a devouring and prodding of the author's mind the best ghostwriter will get to truly know the author. This is critical for all good ghostwriters.

The way the author walks, talks, holds themselves, laughs, cries, emotionally behaves and so forth. The ghostwriter has to become almost possessed by the personality of the author so they can translate their character as honourably and trustworthy as possible.

I do this through meeting, eating, walking, talking and hanging out together until I get to know the real YOU.

A Good Ghostwriter Is Invisible

The problem in today's world is who is good at writing compared to who is good at being found online.

If you look online the risk of getting a ghostwriter wrong is extremely high when you hire anyone carrying the title ‘ghostwriter.’

The best ghostwriters are unknown, hidden and invisible. When I write your book I will be invisible. Did you know me before today? I can be good at being unknown. You will have the limelight.

Ghostwriting Awards

My awards for ghostwriting are - zero, nil, nada. That’s because I’ve spent my life writing books for myself as the author and writing millions of words for my businesses. Type my name into Google and you will find me all over the place. As a writer, consultant, copywriter, filmmaker and many other things. You can find most of my books on Amazon.

I’ve just finished my 24th book. I’ve also written, directed and produced six films, two TV pilots, several plays, and tens of thousands of blogs and articles all for my businesses.

I wrote a 100,000-word manual for a very famous company (I am not allowed to mention it) and have written endless amounts of stories over the past three decades. Hopefully, my first award will be for your book.

I’m FIVE Star Reviewed

Reviews for my own books are mostly five-star as you can see further below. I think the risk for your book with a ghostwriter like me is extremely low. So low I guarantee that you’ll love me or leave me as your ghostwriter. The voice of your book cannot be overstated. It must sound like you wrote that book.

Mastering Your Voice

Let me share this; After spending 12 weeks in California writing a book of my own - Escape from Zoomanity - in 2010, I then sent the book to a highly recommended editor and ghostwriter. I wasn’t paying her to rewrite or write anything yet she did just that - rewrote a huge amount of the book without my permission.

I can tell you the absolute horror when that book came back. It sounded like someone yet that someone wasn’t me. I had to rewrite the whole book as I made the mistake of sending her the only copy.

So, I get it books are extremely personal and if you’re anything like me you must have your book sounding exactly like you.

Before we agree on anything I will write one of your stories to assure you that I can deliver a writing that sounds just like you. Once you read that story or chapter you’ll quickly see it exactly like you wrote it not me.

Just Imagine Your Name On The Cover Of Your Book.

If you are anything like me or most people you would answer ‘YES’ you’d love to see your name on your book. In a bookstore, on Amazon, in a magazine review. Your story, your life, your biography being read in a coffee shop by a total stranger. In fact by total strangers all over the world.

Your whole life or business story, your experiences and your loves and losses. Your successes, your failures and your ability to survive and thrive. Going from this to that and back again. Real human stories, real human emotions and real empathy and compassion. And of course, all the funny stuff if there are funny stories to add.

Can you imagine strangers reading your life in words in a book? I am a strong believer that if we leave anything behind it should be our story for others to grow and learn from.

I once walked along a train looking for my seat number. Incredibly someone was sitting on the train reading my book, Escape from Zoomanity. I won't lie - it was a thrill to see.

I have just completed my 24th book - The Consultant. I recently received an email from a reader. They told me the book transformed their business.

It’s done, dusted, and now doing its own thing on real and cloud bookshelves. Would you like me to get started on your book?

From McDonald’s to NETFLIX, to countries and personalities like Joe Wicks - they all have books because they work and leave a wonderful legacy.

A Ghostwriter For Hire

Did you know most books in high street bookshops might have a famous name on them and have usually been ghostwritten? Bestsellers - ghostwritten - famous books - ghostwritten and even famous authors have used ghostwriters.

I get that because books are stories in your head. Writing is the tool you use to get those stories out. The reality is not all of us are writers and not all of us can write a book. I can pull out a tooth, but I’m no dentist.

So, if famous ‘authors’ and best sellers go and hire a ghostwriter there is no reason you can’t do it either.

Writing your book can serve several wonderful purposes for you and offer the most inspirational and wonderful benefits for readers. Here are some reasons why you should hire an expert to ghostwrite your book:

1. Documenting your Life: A book is a way to preserve and document your life story, ensuring that your experiences, achievements, and contributions are recorded for future generations. It allows you to leave a lasting legacy and provide insights into your personal journey.

2. Inspiring Others: your book often serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for readers. By sharing your challenges, successes, and lessons learned throughout your life, you can inspire others to overcome obstacles, pursue their dreams, or make a positive impact in the world.

3. Historical Record: Your book helps contribute to the historical record by capturing the life and times of how you lived. It will provide valuable insights into specific periods, cultures, and events, offering a deeper understanding of the past - your past.

4. Understanding Human Nature: Your book reveals the complexities of human nature, including motivations, struggles, and personal growth. It can provide an opportunity to delve into the psychology, emotions, and choices of individuals, fostering empathy and understanding.

5. Sharing Knowledge and Expertise: a book of your life in specific fields or industries can offer insights, knowledge, and expertise to readers who are interested in learning from your experiences. Your biography can serve as an educational resource and reference.

6. Celebrating Achievements: Your book celebrates the achievements and contributions of your life, ensuring that your accomplishments are recognized and appreciated. It offers a platform to acknowledge the impact you have made in your field, community, or society at large.

7. Self-Reflection and Personal Growth: Writing your book can be a deeply introspective process. It allows you - the author -to reflect on your life choices, experiences, and personal growth. It can provide valuable insights, closure, and a sense of self-awareness.

8. Entertainment and Enjoyment: books are not only informative but can also be entertaining to read. They can be gripping narratives that captivate readers, offering a glimpse into the lives of fascinating individuals and the worlds they inhabit.

And again - you DO NOT have to write it…

Ghostwriting Service - For Hire - Why Me?

Why would you trust me to ghostwrite a book for you? Here’s part of my writing career as a published author and writer.

I began writing a very long time ago - very late 70s. This was poetry and lyrics for my band. My first actual book is a 1000-page business book I named Salon Column Builder. I wrote that book in 1999. Since then I have written industry books, marketing books, story books, philosophy books and even books and stories for children. I have also written well over 10,000 blogs and probably tens of thousands of emails over the past few decades. My books can be found in all good bookstores online and offline.

I would say I am a business book ghostwriter if asked on my specialist subject.

My career as well as being an accomplished author is also as a marketing consultant, a high-end copywriter of thousands of copy pieces, a scriptwriter, a screenplay writer of six films and even two TV pilots and one stage play. (see a partial list in the column to your right on this page)

I think it’s fair to say I am a well-qualified writer and publisher of books. I currently have three more books on my desk. And apart from the sales and kind words my books carry many five-star reviews.

As a ghostwriter, I can deliver to you exactly what is needed for your book and exactly what your audience wants to hear.

That means the most wonderful opening. The most compelling stories. The most colourful - or dull - characters. The intrigue of locations, the beauty of moments or just the reflection of daily life.

In chapters, in paragraphs and in each carefully chosen word. And of course the end of the book where it will triumph in a moral or a magical moment that brings tears, relief or a smile to the reader. I can write a book like that for you.

Ghostwriting YOUR Book.

Yes, I can write ghostwrite your book. I guarantee to write your book so it reads and sounds exactly like you wrote the book.

Over the years I have been asked many many times to ghostwrite books for clients like yourself. Probably due to my busy workload, I have kindly refused after all it can take around 6 months of my time.

Although apart from my own 24 books I have ghostwritten two large books for two very well-known names I cannot print here.

Today, my workload is very different so I have decided to add a ghostwriter for hire to my writing services. That means I will write your book for you and you get all the credit, you get listed as the author. I research, interview you and write everything for you.

The ghostwriting project for you can be anything. Business books, legacy books, storybooks, biography, and even philosophy and more.

Ask Me To Ghostwrite Your Book.

• Let’s talk your ghostwriting project through

• Let’s agree on the way forward

• I will start the process of ghostwriting your book

• I will ghostwrite your book and make it sound just like your voice

• I will deliver a fully edited ghostwritten book you’ll be proud of

• You will be listed as the author

Alan, How Much Does It Cost To Have You Ghostwrite My Book?

The truth is, it’s impossible to quote unless we’ve spoken. It really depends on what level you really want to deliver and what I advise. Your book can be short and it can also be very long. It just depends. Some books will be 25,000 words and limited research. Other books might be 150,000 and in-depth research. (my latest business book - the Consultant - is 90,000 words)

(VERY)Rough Guide is: Starting at £45,000 (this NOT a quote - fee given only after consultation - more about fees here)

You should know I base my fees on expertise and skill set not pounds per word. You will get many ghostwriters cheaper than me.

SAMPLES: I can give you samples of my books before we commit to anything.

Writing a book is a creative process and hopefully a once-only process. This takes time, research and a ton of writing. A book can also be of various sizes. My latest book is around 100,000 words. I have an earlier book that is just 15,000 words. Books come in all sizes. It can take anything from 3-6-12 months to ghostwrite and finally deliver your book.

The good news is I’ve done it all before. There is nothing for you to do apart from being interviewed, spend a little time with me (video is also fine) and then finally approve your ghostwritten book. I understand how it is to write a book. I get the whole process from blank paper to a finished book. I promise you I will deliver a beautiful manuscript that is ready to print.

Whether it be for your business (clients love books about a business they love) a personal biography or a spine-chilling story, I can write this for you.

How My Ghostwriting Service Works.

The Ghostwriter Working on a Book

• Let’s Talk: We have an initial conversation to see if we are a fit. Do you like me, do I like you, can we create a good team that will create an incredible book for you?

• Outline, Strategy and Vision: Once we agree to work together we then have to decide details about your book.

• The Interviews: After we have a rough idea for your book a series of interviews then takes place.

• Face-To-Face: The interviews are done via video call - If local we can do them face-to-face - and I like to record all calls we do.

• Research & Time: I will spend hours, days and even weeks going over every detail of the interviews. This allows me to construct the best way to make your book, compelling, interesting, a must-read and of course in harmony with your voice and tone.

• Your Book Outline and Structure: Once the outline has been created we will keep speaking to make sure you are in harmony with what I am thinking.

• Chapter 1.: Once we are at this point I will write your first chapter.

• Detailed Review: Once that first chapter is done we will both review it to make sure it sounds like YOU and not like someone writing about you. When we have agreed to voice and tone is right I will continue writing the rest of your book.

• Keep You Updated: As I write I will keep you updated at every point. Call me ANYTIME. I do not send endless updates of writing because it will have a far greater impact on you when you read it. This is just what I advise - but if you insist that’s not a problem either.

• First Draft: The first draft can take anything from 3-6 months. It should absolutely not be rushed at any point. It is essential for you that you have a high-quality book in your hands once it’s written.

• The Edit - 14 Days: Once the first draft is complete you will be sent a copy in print. You have 14 days to read the copy and offer edits.

• Repeat: This process is repeated 3x and then the final edit will be complete.

• Your Complete Book: CONGRATULATIONS you are an author. You will have your book completed with your name on it.

Getting Published - Being Seen

I will also offer you publishing advice and expert marketing advice based on my work and experience of consulting and advising up to 600 industries on marketing and of course publishing my own 24 books and building my own publishing company.

My marketing company is here - OrangeBeetle.com Est 1998

What I Will Need From You

Whatever your subject is I need information, photos, paperwork, details just absolutely everything that will give me more details. This is the key to amazing ghostwriting.

I also need you to be 100% honest from start to finish. I need you to be patient. I need you to be kind. I really need you to be yourself. That means you have to expose yourself in full so I can make sure this book sounds exactly like you.

You can be assured of 100% confidentiality from start to finish.

The Ghostwriting Book Guide

As I have already said; you can get many ghostwriting services far cheaper than I do. Why should you ask me to write your book then?

I am a writer and author first, and a ghostwriter second. Writing is my nature. I just don’t think you will find that many people as detailed as myself to do this. I can write in any character. I can become you as I write using my own specialist ghostwriting technique. I am in no rush to finish a book (so you get the very best) and won’t be pushed on speed. I will hit your deadline as long as it is realistic. I want your book to be a No.1 book, not a bottom-shelf book.

My three decades plus as a writer, author and ghostwriter have taught me the power of storytelling, editing for impact, character building and creating and so much more.

That’s why it takes time. That’s why I don’t, won’t and can’t offer a ghostwriting service as low as others. I have clients that have hired up to five writers and eventually come to me to pay yet again. I want you to pay me once. I want you to rave about my writing. I would love you to even cry in sheer joy when you read what I create for you.

As you can see it is a truly intense process. The time can take from 3 months - if lucky - to even a year from start to finish.

So you have to make a realistic investment in your book. I guarantee you will be thrilled with what I create for you.

You have to look at £45,000 as a starting point, (for the average-sized book,) but it is just a starting point. Not only are you paying for time you are paying for unique skills that not many writers have. I cannot do any ghostwriting project any lower than my starting point,

If you send me an email saying, ‘How much is it for a ghostwritten book?’ I cannot offer you a quote. If you would like a quote that is for your book we have to have a conversation. Only this way can I offer you a realistic quote.

What Are You Paying For?

A specialist to put your words, ideas, life, experience or legacy on paper. And then - Your name will be on your book as THE AUTHOR.

That is something most will only ever dream about. I can tell you as an author myself it’s a moment that once you see it you will never forget.

Contact me here - 07793069486 - Outside the U.K. +44 7793069486 - WhatsApp is the fastest way to get me.

Alan Forrest Smith

Ghostwriter For Hire

“Alan is inspirational, he is business clever. Not many can visualise a dud business in three dimensions, turning the company in his mind, penetrating to the bowels, foreseeing the traps, and laying an imaginative path towards its success.
”

— AUTHOR, DAVID NORE

Alan, Please Ghostwrite My Book - What’s Next?

I’d love to write your book for you. So, if you’d like me to take a look at your ghostwriting project, talk it through with you and then hopefully write your book, here’s what you need to do.

Ask me for a zero-obligation call. Contact me here at alan@orangebeetle.com or give me a quick call or message and then together we can get things going for you.

Write notes and try to be as clear as you can be about the kind of book you need to be written. Don’t worry you don’t have to know all the details that are what you are hiring me for.

Or you can send me a very quick message via WhatsApp, Telegram, Facetime, or Text - whichever you use.

Just add one word - GHOSTWRITING and send it to +44 7793069486 U.K.

I look forward to speaking with you.

The Ghostwriter,

Alan Forrest Smith 

FAQ

When can you start?

That depends on my schedule. Most of the time I am busy, but I always do my very best to accommodate all of my clients. To be assured of a start time you need to book me in advance with a deposit (to be agreed upon.) So if you contact me in March and you want to get a start ASAP I will probably get started within 8-12 weeks of our conversation and booking.

I am willing to squeeze you in sooner if I can. This carries an extra ‘rush’ fee of 50% of your quote.

How long will it take?

That’s impossible to say this early so this is a guide. Anything from as fast as 3 months (but unlikely) to 12 months. Each ghostwriting project has its own size and needs. I can only give you dates once we talk your project through. Your book should never be rushed. It must be the very best we can offer to your readers and that might take more time than you expect.

Do we have a contract?

Yes, our contract is very thorough and must be signed before we start. The balance is equal between you and me. I recommend all clients to have their contracts checked through if not sure.

Can we use an NDA? (Non-Disclosure Contract)

All of my work has NDA protection built in. Nothing you share with me that is private will ever pass my lips. The NDA really makes sure of that.

Will it be my name only as the author?

If that is what you want yes. Some clients like the name of the ghostwriter on there or even in the book credits. This is because most people know public books are ghostwritten and some like to show off their chosen ghostwriter. It is really a personal choice. Either way, it is your story and your book so it will carry your name.

Are there any hidden costs?

The truth is there can be. If we go beyond the initial brief and you want another five chapters adding that will cost money. If you need ongoing advice for marketing, consultancy and so forth these things have an extra charge. What is on your contract - fee - is the fee you will pay. Extras can cost extra.

Is the manuscript completed and edited when handed over?

Yes. You will have to sign off the finished contract. You must be sure of any legal requirements such as permissions to use names etc. This side is outside my scope yet if not done it can create a problem if you mention such and such a person and they want to be removed from the book.

Is it laid out and ready to print?

No, because every publisher will have their own sizes and layouts. They are the ones responsible for laying out your book.

Who does the cover and what goes on the cover?

I have a contact that can do this for you at a quoted fee. I can advise as to what goes on your cover.

Can you help me self-publish and market my book?

Yes. This is an extra fee and will be quoted if you need us to set that up. If it is just advice I can certainly advise you at no charge.

How does payment work?

I prefer 100% down. This works for most clients, but if that doesn’t work for you I can offer some flexibility. The minimum is always 50% down and the rest is to be agreed. If a payment is staged over say three payments and the payment is not made the project stops until the payment is made. 100% of the payment must be made before the final manuscript is handed over.

Is there a guarantee if I am not happy?

I do not offer any kind of refund guarantee for my work. I do however guarantee that through every stage of writing, I will double and triple check you are happy with what you read. You will be heavily involved in this book from start to finish. I will simply write your stories and thoughts. If you do not like my work you will know instantly before we get too far. I have only once in two decades had an unhappy client. You will love my work.

Can I make changes as we go along?

Yes. We can make changes as we go along. All changes must be sent over in one single document. The changes will be made. Then we move forward.

Do you have a question?

Please email me here to ask.