If you’re planning a book, you’ve probably come across two options: hire a ghostwriter or work with a book coach.
But what do those words actually mean? In short:
- One writes the book for you.
- And the other helps you write it yourself.
What a ghostwriter does
Think of it like building a house. (I like house metaphors.)
A ghostwriter is the architect and project manager. You tell me what you want the house to feel like, how you want to live in and how you’ll use it once you’re in. I design it, manage the build, and make sure the roof works for all types of weather and that doors are in the right place. I’ll even make sure the cat flap is big enough for the dog.
You don’t need to know how to build a house. You just need to know what you want to live in.
To bring it back to writing, a ghostwriter helps you to write the book by doing the heavy lifting. However, it’s all you. Your expertise, stories, and ideas. I just pull it out of you through interviews, make decisions about structure and voice, figure out what to keep and what to cut, and turn it into a manuscript.
You’re involved every step of the way, approving the direction, reviewing drafts, and giving feedback. All I do is type. A lot.
What a book coach does
A book coach helps you write the book yourself.
They motivate you, keep you accountable, help you find your own way through the process. They’re great if you want to do the physical labour of becoming an author. Book coaches do workshops, group sessions, teach writing craft, help you work through ideas. They’ll cheer for you on the sidelines and help you make tough choices.
But they won’t write the book for you. They won’t choose where the doors go or what type of roof works best. That’s all on you to figure out.
Using the house metaphor: a book coach is there while you’re building your own house. They’ll encourage you, point out when something doesn’t look right, give you advice on materials.
But you’re swinging the hammer. You’re making the decisions. You’re doing the work.
The real difference
Ghostwriter: I write the words. You provide the content and approve the direction.
Book coach: You write the words. They guide and support you through the process.
If you don’t have time to write, or you don’t want to, hire a ghostwriter.
If you want to write it yourself but need structure, accountability, and encouragement, hire a book coach.
What about manuscript development?
Manuscript development sits somewhere in between.
If you’ve already written a first draft (or you’re close to finishing one), manuscript development is where I come in like a second opinion on that house you’ve built. I’m a different architect reviewing the plans and telling you what’s working, what’s not, and how to fix it.
I’m not writing it for you (that’s ghostwriting). I’m not coaching you through the next draft (that’s book coaching). I’m giving you professional feedback on what you’ve already done so you can take it to the next level.
How to choose
Hire a ghostwriter if:
- You don’t have time to write the book yourself
- You don’t want to write it yourself (and that’s fine)
- You want a professionally written book that positions you properly
- You’re happy to collaborate but don’t want to do the actual drafting
Hire a book coach if:
- You want to write the book yourself
- You need accountability and structure to stay on track
- You’re willing to put in the time and effort to learn the craft
- Owning every word matters to you
Use manuscript development if:
- You’ve already written a draft
- You want expert feedback before investing in editing or publishing
- You’re not sure if what you’ve written works, but you don’t want to start over
Can you switch?
Yes.
Some people start with a book coach, realise they don’t have the time or inclination to finish, and hire a ghostwriter to take it over.
Others try writing themselves, get 30,000 words in, and realise manuscript development would save them months of guessing.
There’s no shame in changing direction. The goal is to get the book done well, not to prove you can do it all yourself.
The truth
Most people who need a ghostwriter try to convince themselves they need a book coach first.
They think “I should be able to write this myself” or “It feels more authentic if I do it.” So they hire a coach, start writing, and six months later they’re stuck with a half-finished manuscript and no time to finish it.
If you don’t enjoy writing, or if your time is better spent running your business, don’t force it. Hire a ghostwriter and move on.
If you genuinely want to write it yourself and you’ve got the time and discipline, a book coach will help you do it well.
But be honest with yourself about which one you actually need.
What to do next
Still not sure? Book a call and we’ll figure out what makes sense for your project, your timeline, and your goals.
I’ll tell you honestly whether you need ghostwriting, manuscript development, book coaching, or something else entirely.
Book a call or explore my services.