10 Best Ghostwriting Services for Authors in 2025

• Aug 12, 2025
• 6 min read

• Tags: Book Writing, Fiction Writing, Novel Writing, Writers

Nothing about finding the right ghostwriting service is simple. Costs range anywhere from $3,500 to $42,000, depending on your project. Looking for someone to bring your book idea to life without putting your name on the cover? You’re not alone.

We’ve compiled this expert-vetted list of the best ghostwriting services for 2025 to help you navigate your options. Established players like Reedsy, which connects authors with top publishing professionals worldwide, and companies like The Urban Writers, which offer AI-assisted options that cut costs by 50%.

Let’s explore your options to find the professional ghostwriting service that actually fits your project, budget, and publishing goals.

1. Reedsy

Reedsy stands out as a curated marketplace connecting authors with top-tier ghostwriting professionals. Through their platform, you can access a network of experienced ghostwriters who have worked with bestselling authors, major publishers, and even celebrities.

Reedsy key features

Reedsy maintains exceptionally high standards for its ghostwriter services, accepting fewer than one in twenty applications through its rigorous vetting process. This selective approach ensures you’ll find truly qualified professional ghostwriters on their platform. What sets Reedsy apart? They offer mediation services if a collaboration encounters difficulties, providing extra protection beyond direct hiring arrangements.

The platform includes built-in communication and editing tools specifically designed for author-ghostwriter collaborations. Reedsy also handles security concerns with secure payment processing and confidentiality options for writers who prefer their ghostwriting work to remain private.

Reedsy pricing

Here’s where it gets interesting: ghostwriters set their own rates, so there’s no single standard price. Most professionals quote a flat fee for the entire project, although some may break this down by hourly or daily rates. Many ghostwriters allow payment in stages, which means if the collaboration doesn’t meet expectations, you can part ways without paying for the entire project.

The platform charges a 10% commission from ghostwriters and an additional 10% fee to clients on top of the quoted price. Reedsy also applies a 2.9% payment processing fee. Price ranges vary significantly based on the ghostwriter’s experience and project requirements.

Reedsy process

The collaboration process begins when you create a free account and browse ghostwriter profiles filtered by genre and expertise. You can request quotes from up to five ghostwriters simultaneously, who will review your sample pages to provide tailored estimates. After agreeing on terms and timeline, you’ll start working together using Reedsy’s platform tools.

A typical ghostwriting collaboration involves:

1. Initial interviews to capture your voice and vision
2. Creating a clear project timeline and material generation plan
3. Drafting process with opportunities for feedback on early versions
4. Delivery of a professionally written manuscript

Throughout the process, all communication and document exchanges happen on Reedsy’s secure platform, ensuring both parties are protected.

Reedsy is best for

Reedsy works particularly well for authors who have compelling ideas but lack either the writing skills or time to execute them properly. The platform excels at matching clients with specialized ghostwriters who understand specific genres and markets.

The service works exceptionally well for those seeking ghostwriters for various content types beyond full books, including book proposals, blog posts, speeches, and social media content. Most importantly, Reedsy provides peace of mind through its vetted professionals, structured collaboration tools, and mediation services, making it ideal for first-time authors unfamiliar with the publishing industry.

2. Gotham Ghostwriters

Founded by Dan Gerstein, Gotham Ghostwriters established itself as the first agency dedicated to long-form content creation with a singular commitment to client success. Their approach goes beyond simply matching you with a writer—they focus on building trust and creating true partnerships.

Gotham Ghostwriters’ key features

Gotham Ghostwriters maintains a vast network of over 3,200 editorial specialists, many with credentials from working with elite organizations like GE, IBM, Pepsi, and major publishing houses. Their core strength? An extensive vetting process that prioritizes both writer qualifications and chemistry between clients and writers.

What sets this ghostwriting company apart:

• Exclusive focus on long-form content creation
• Comprehensive matchmaking process that emphasizes client-writer chemistry
• Strong industry connections with literary agents and publishers
• Support services extending beyond writing to publishing guidance

Gotham Ghostwriters pricing

Gotham doesn’t offer set rates. Instead, they tailor pricing based on project scope and writer caliber. Their pricing structure falls into three distinct tiers:

• Basic tier: $30,000-$60,000 for straightforward memoirs, business books, or how-to guides
• Mid-market tier: $75,000-$150,000 for more sophisticated works with credentialed writers
• Elite tier: $150,000-$300,000 for collaborations with writers who have multiple New York Times bestsellers

For book proposals alone, rates typically range from $10,000-$20,000, with most falling between $10,000-$15,000.

Gotham Ghostwriters process

Gotham follows a structured four-step process for each project:

1. Free consultation: They discuss your plans, assess your needs, and explain their matchmaking approach
2. Writer search: They create a formal notice sent to their network, typically generating 20-100 responses
3. Selection: After narrowing down candidates, you receive credentials and samples from 3-5 writers, followed by interviews
4. Agreement: Gotham brokers the contract, handles billing, and provides ongoing support throughout the project

The actual writing collaboration begins with developing a detailed chapter-by-chapter plan, followed by in-depth interviews to gather material. Writers submit chapters as they’re written, allowing for feedback and revisions throughout the process.

Gotham Ghostwriters is best for

Gotham Ghostwriters excels at serving clients who value trust and partnership in their ghostwriting relationships. Their services are especially beneficial for:

• CEOs and executives creating memoirs or business books
• Thought leaders developing sophisticated “big-think” books
• Authors seeking pathways to traditional publishing
• Clients who need comprehensive support beyond just writing

With their emphasis on chemistry between client and writer, Gotham works especially well for projects where personal connection matters as much as writing credentials.

3. Kevin Anderson & Associates

Established in 2007, Kevin Anderson & Associates (KAA) has evolved from a small academic tutoring service into an international ghostwriting powerhouse with offices in New York, Nashville, Los Angeles, and London. The company caters to a high-profile clientele, including Fortune 500 CEOs, celebrities, and bestselling authors seeking premium as well as eBook ghostwriting services.

But premium comes with a price tag that reflects the caliber of talent they provide.

Kevin Anderson key features

KAA distinguishes itself through its exceptional team composition and service offerings:

• Access to #1 New York Times-bestselling writers and former Big-5 acquisitions editors
• A roster that has collectively produced over 200 New York Times bestsellers and 600 national bestsellers
• Network of 500+ freelance professionals servicing approximately 500 authors annually
• Customized ghostwriting approach tailored to individual publishing goals
• Exclusive access to former Big-5 publishing executives and literary agents
• Beta reader testing with 20+ readers from your target demographic

The company maintains close partnerships with elite publishers, literary agents, book marketers, and publicists, enabling them to assemble optimal book launch teams for clients. This isn’t just ghostwriting—it’s a complete publishing strategy.

Kevin Anderson pricing

KAA’s pricing reflects their premium positioning:

• Premier Package: Starting at $50,000
• Executive Package: $115,000-$250,000
• Black Card Package: Premium option featuring the #1 New York Times-bestselling team

For those with budget constraints, KAA also provides book coaching or editing options at lower price points. Their packages include everything from planning and outlining to publishing, navigation, and marketing strategy. You’re not just paying for a manuscript—you’re investing in a complete publishing experience.

Kevin Anderson process

KAA follows a structured approach that begins with understanding your publishing goals and budget before developing a customized plan. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial consultation and review of existing materials
2. Strategy sessions with publishing executives to develop positioning and structure
3. Detailed manuscript outline development
4. Writing through interviews and research
5. Ongoing editorial review and direction
6. Beta reader testing and feedback incorporation
7. Multiple editing rounds (developmental, line, copy)
8. Publishing strategy and industry guidance

Throughout this journey, you work with a team that typically includes a senior/executive editor, ghostwriter, project manager, and publishing consultant. This team approach ensures no detail gets overlooked.

Kevin Anderson is best for

Given their premium positioning, KAA is ideally suited for:

• Business executives, public figures, and authors pursuing traditional publishing
• Clients seeking top-tier talent and white-glove service regardless of budget constraints
• Authors requiring extensive publishing industry connections and guidance
• Projects demanding the highest editorial standards and market positioning
• Busy professionals who want minimal time commitment while maintaining control over their book’s vision

Their 100% confidentiality guarantee ensures your ghostwriting arrangement remains private. If budget isn’t your primary concern and you want the best possible team working on your book, KAA delivers exactly that.

4. The Urban Writers

The Urban Writers takes a different approach as a platform-based, affordable ghostwriting service featuring over 5,000 vetted content creators from around the world. Their model connects you directly with writers, editors, designers, and other creative professionals through an online platform that makes collaboration easier.

Urban Writers’ key features

What makes The Urban Writers interesting? They combine human creativity with AI assistance through their Dibbly Create tool, which helps with research and idea generation. Their platform offers:

• Real-time collaboration features, including live document viewing and dedicated project chat
• A diverse team of specialists in fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and various other content types
• Quality assurance review process before final delivery
• Optional commercially free images (up to 20 per project) at no additional cost

Beyond writing, they provide editing, illustration, cover design, translation, and audiobook narration services—essentially functioning as a one-stop shop for content creation.

Urban Writers pricing

The Urban Writers uses a tiered pricing structure based on writer experience levels:

• Beginner Writer: Their most affordable option, starting at approximately 90 cents per 100 words for basic ghostwriting
• Experienced Writer: Mid-range packages for more complex projects requiring niche specialists
• Top/Premium Writer: Higher-tier rates for their most experienced ghostwriters, with top writers earning around $1.20 per 100 words

Pricing varies significantly between fiction and nonfiction projects. They also offer complete bundle packages that include writing, editing, and formatting services.

Urban Writers process

Their seven-step process works like this:

1. Creating an account on their platform
2. Posting your project with detailed requirements
3. Connecting with suitable freelancers through their database
4. Choosing your preferred writer before committing financially
5. Managing your project through their real-time tracking system
6. Quality assurance review by their internal team
7. Downloading your completed project

Throughout this process, you maintain control through their platform’s communication tools and document viewing capabilities.

Urban Writers is best for

The Urban Writers works well for:

• Budget-conscious authors seeking affordable ghostwriting alternatives
• Clients who prefer direct involvement in the creative process
• Projects requiring multiple creative services (writing, editing, design)
• Authors looking for children’s book specialists
• Self-publishers who need complete manuscript-to-publication support

The platform’s collaborative features make it particularly suitable for those who want to maintain creative control while still getting professional help.

5. StoryTerrace

StoryTerrace specializes in turning personal life stories into professionally crafted books. Since 2014, this London-based company has focused on one specific mission: preserving individual narratives for future generations.

Do you have a family story that deserves to be told? StoryTerrace might be exactly what you need.

StoryTerrace key features

They bring solid credentials to memoir and personal history projects. With over 600 professional writers in their network and more than 3,000 books created, they’ve clearly found their niche. Their team has conducted over 24,000 interview hours—that’s a lot of storytelling experience.

Writers fall into three tiers (junior, senior, and premium) based on experience and publishing credentials. The company handles everything from interviewing to final printing, with dedicated project editors managing the entire process.

What sets StoryTerrace apart from general ghostwriting services is its focus on personal narratives. They understand that capturing someone’s life story requires a different approach than writing business books or fiction.

StoryTerrace pricing

StoryTerrace offers three main packages to fit different needs and budgets:

• Swift Package: $1,200 total ($400 monthly for 3 months), including 4 hours of interviews, 60 pages, and delivery in as little as 6 weeks
• Classic Package: Starting at $3,250 ($650 monthly for 5 months), including 4-10 interview hours and 60-120 pages
• PRO Package: Starting at $21,000 ($4,200 monthly for 5 months), offering premium publishing-house quality with marketing support

Want to test their approach first? Their “Book Taster” option costs $150, which includes a one-hour interview and a 10-page concept document. This gives you a feel for how they capture stories before committing to a full project.

StoryTerrace process

StoryTerrace follows a structured eight-step approach:

1. Project kickoff with detailed explanation of expectations
2. Writer matching based on your goals, topics, and even location
3. Questionnaire completion to prepare for interviews
4. In-depth interviews (typically 2-hour sessions)
5. Writing and editing with regular feedback opportunities
6. Book cover design and photo selection
7. Printing of hardcover, full-color books
8. Final delivery of your completed memoir

The process centers around interviews where you share your stories. Writers then craft these conversations into compelling narrative form while preserving your authentic voice.

StoryTerrace is best for

StoryTerrace works particularly well for clients looking to preserve personal or family histories. Their services especially benefit:

• Individuals wanting to document life experiences as gifts for loved ones
• Business leaders seeking to chronicle company histories
• Anyone wishing to create a tangible legacy
• First-time authors who need guidance throughout the entire book creation journey

The structured, supportive approach makes them ideal for people who have fascinating stories but aren’t sure how to organize them into book form. If preserving family memories or personal milestones matters to you, StoryTerrace offers a clear path from conversation to finished book.

6. Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA)

The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) operates differently from typical ghostwriting companies. Founded in 1970, this non-profit organization connects authors with independent editorial professionals across multiple disciplines. With over 3,300 members providing diverse editorial services, this long-established network offers access to ghostwriters alongside editors, proofreaders, and indexers.

EFA key features

EFA stands apart through its member-driven structure. You won’t find a traditional company here—instead, you get direct access to freelancers who set their own terms. Here’s what makes them different:

• Freelancers who establish their own rates and working arrangements
• Searchable Member Directory that you can filter by genre, language, and geographic location
• Educational resources and networking events for members
• Ghostwriters focused on capturing your authentic voice and vision

The organization maintains professional standards while allowing direct client-writer relationships. No platform intermediaries getting in the way.

EFA pricing

EFA provides transparent rate guidelines based on member surveys. For ghostwriting services, projects typically start at $5,280 for fiction and $5,920 for nonfiction books of approximately 80,000 words. This puts their pricing in the mid-range compared to other services.

Their 2023 rate survey showed ghostwriters typically charge:

• Fiction: Generally more affordable than nonfiction projects
• Nonfiction: Higher rates due to research requirements
• Other options: Some members offer hourly rates ($70-90/hour) or per-word rates

Rates vary significantly based on writer experience, project complexity, and deadline requirements.

EFA process

Finding a ghostwriter through EFA requires more work on your end:

1. Search their Member Directory using filters for genre and expertise
2. Browse potential candidates with relevant experience
3. Contact writers directly using their provided information
4. Discuss project details and negotiate terms independently
5. Establish a direct working relationship outside the platform

This approach offers flexibility but demands more initial research from you. The process lacks centralized management, meaning you’ll handle all communication and project oversight directly.

EFA is best for

EFA works well for clients who want:

• Direct relationships with ghostwriters without agency markups
• Flexibility in negotiating terms and work arrangements
• Access to specialists in academic and technical ghostwriting
• Budget-conscious options with transparent pricing
• Projects requiring specialized genre knowledge

The organization functions best for self-directed authors who prefer managing their ghostwriting relationships independently rather than through full-service agencies.

7. Association of Ghostwriters

The Association of Ghostwriters (AOG) operates differently from the other services we’ve covered. As the only professional organization dedicated exclusively to ghostwriters, AOG has carved a unique niche since its founding in 2010. Unlike direct service providers, AOG functions primarily as an advocacy organization bringing ghostwriters together to elevate the profession through community building and best practices.

Association key features

What sets AOG apart is its role as a central hub for both experienced and aspiring ghostwriters seeking connection in what can otherwise be an isolated profession. Membership brings several notable benefits:

• Access to a built-in community of professionals facing similar challenges
• Monthly “Office Hours” sessions via Zoom for real-time interaction
• Private Facebook group for ongoing discussion and support
• Referrals and job postings specifically for ghostwriting projects
• Guest expert presentations on topics related to landing more work

AOG focuses on establishing industry standards and policies that protect both writers and clients. The organization aims to combat the isolation many ghostwriters experience while simultaneously helping members build thriving businesses.

Association pricing

AOG offers two membership tiers with straightforward pricing:

Associate Membership: For aspiring and newer ghostwriters who have completed fewer than two book-length projects. Payable immediately via PayPal.

Professional Membership: For established ghostwriters who have completed at least two traditionally-length books. This tier includes additional benefits such as listing in the member directory and access to project leads from potential clients.

Members often justify the investment through business generation—some have secured tens of thousands of dollars in projects through their AOG connections.

Association process

For authors seeking ghostwriters, AOG provides:

1. Educational resources about the ghostwriting process
2. Access to the “Find a Ghostwriter” service
3. Ability to browse the public member directory
4. Submission of project leads (available to Professional members)

For ghostwriters looking to join, the process involves selecting the appropriate membership level based on experience and completing an application for Professional status.

Association is best for

The AOG works well for:

• Authors seeking education about ghostwriting collaboration
• Clients requiring vetted, experienced ghostwriting professionals
• Ghostwriters wanting community and professional development
• Anyone looking to understand standard ghostwriting practices and avoid scams

Given that over 50% of recently published nonfiction books involved ghostwriters, the AOG serves a critical role in maintaining quality standards in this expanding industry.

8. Scribe Media

Co-founded by Tucker Max (a four-time New York Times bestselling author) and Zach Obront, Scribe Media takes a different route. Instead of writing for you, they extract your knowledge through interviews and turn it into your book.

Scribe Media key features

What makes Scribe Media unique? Their interview-based ghostwriting method ensures the book contains solely your ideas and words in your voice—nothing gets added that didn’t come from you. Here’s what truly sets them apart from typical ghostwriting companies:

• End-to-end service that goes well beyond just manuscript creation
• Extremely selective writer hiring process (less than 1% acceptance rate)
• You retain 100% ownership of rights and royalties
• Money-back guarantee on all services

Their team includes Pulitzer Prize winners, Emmy Award winners, and bestselling authors working through a systematic process that benefits both writers and clients.

Scribe Media pricing

Scribe offers tiered service packages based on your needs:

• Scribe Professional: $48,000 (or $4,800/month for 10 months) – Their classic ghostwriting package
• Scribe Elite: Starting at $135,000 – Premium service with award-winning ghostwriters who have worked on major bestsellers

Each package includes full publishing services (cover design, layout, distribution) plus marketing support—far more than what typical ghostwriters provide, who often deliver only manuscripts.

Scribe Media process

The structured Scribe process begins with assigning you a publishing manager who guides you from concept to published book:

1. Validation and positioning of your book idea
2. Comprehensive interviews to extract your knowledge
3. Creation of a manuscript by professional writers
4. Expert editing and review
5. Design and publishing coordination
6. Distribution through major retailers
7. Marketing strategy implementation

Scribe Media is best for

Scribe works ideally for:

• Busy entrepreneurs and executives who know their subject thoroughly
• Professionals who want a book but lack the time to write it themselves
• Authors seeking complete publishing and distribution support
• Those who prioritize maintaining their authentic voice
• Clients willing to invest in premium ghostwriting services

Their process requires approximately two hours weekly over nine months, significantly less time commitment than writing yourself.

9. HotGhostWriter

Romance fiction and serialized content require a different approach to ghostwriting. HotGhostWriter understands this specialization, catering primarily to growth-oriented publishing companies and self-publishers who need streamlined book writing services. Founded in 2016, this London-based company has recently evolved its processes to better serve clients’ needs.

HotGhostWriter key features

What happens when you need multiple books in a series but can’t find enough quality writers? HotGhostWriter offers publishers three essential elements for scaling their content production:

• Access to creative talent when finding enough quality writers becomes challenging
• Established processes for handling high-volume projects while maintaining quality
• Complete project management that aligns with your brand requirements

They’ve implemented several process improvements, including early chapter reviews, accelerated project timelines, and dedicated Quality Assurance Managers (QAMs) who ensure consistency throughout your project. Their project tracking system uses Asana for easy milestone monitoring.

HotGhostWriter pricing

For fiction authors working on tight budgets, HotGhostWriter provides cost-effective options:

• Starting at approximately $1,000 per novella or short book
• Around $1,500 for 10,000 words, with custom quotes available for longer manuscripts

These rates make them an affordable choice for multi-book projects. That’s why they’ve become popular among indie authors producing series.

HotGhostWriter process

Their writing process features three stages of development editing that move quickly through a well-structured system. The collaboration begins with a refined client intake process to understand your vision thoroughly. They then assign appropriate writers based on your genre requirements, with romance writers earning around $13 per 1,000 words.

HotGhostWriter is best for

This ghostwriting company excels at serving:

• Fiction authors working in romance, fantasy, and sci-fi genres
• Indie publishers creating multi-book series or serialized content
• Self-publishers focusing on Kindle and e-reading platforms
• Authors needing quick delivery without sacrificing quality

Clients frequently praise their meticulous formatting attention and program managers who coordinate team members effectively across time zones. If you’re building a fiction brand that requires consistent output, HotGhostWriter might be exactly what you need.

10. Estorytellers

Estorytellers offers a complete book development solution where authors retain 100% ownership and royalties while receiving end-to-end support. This one-stop service covers everything from concept to promotion.

Estorytellers key features

What makes Estorytellers stand out? Their approach covers the entire book creation process:

• Dedicated ghostwriters specializing in fiction, non-fiction, academic, and business genres
• NDA signing from day one to ensure privacy and creative control
• Special support tailored for first-time authors with personalized guidance
• Committed teams are assigned to each project with a dedicated project manager
• Option to pick up partially completed manuscripts and continue development

The company focuses on making the ghostwriting process accessible, especially for newcomers to the publishing world.

Estorytellers pricing

Estorytellers positions itself as an affordable option in the ghostwriting market. Rates start at approximately $30 per 1,000 words. Their pricing structure is designed to be pocket-friendly for students and startups.

Throughout the collaboration, they maintain transparent pricing with no hidden charges. For authors working with tight budgets, this straightforward approach eliminates unpleasant surprises.

Estorytellers process

The company follows a structured 5-step methodology:

1. Initial proposal with timeline and NDA signing
2. Vision discussion to understand your perspective and goals
3. Personalized structure design with chapter mapping
4. Collaborative chapter development with ongoing feedback
5. Final refinement for publishing readiness

This systematic approach ensures you stay involved in the creative process while benefiting from professional expertise.

Estorytellers is best for

Estorytellers works particularly well for first-time authors seeking comprehensive support. The service is especially beneficial for those needing affordable yet professional ghostwriting.

If you’re looking for more than just writing services, Estorytellers provides ROI-centered book promotion strategies. This makes them a solid choice for authors who want help not just creating their book, but getting it noticed once it’s published.

This comparison shows the wide range of options available. Budget-conscious authors can find quality services starting around $1,000, while those seeking premium, white-glove treatment might invest $100,000 or more.

The key is matching the service to your specific situation. Are you a first-time author who needs extra guidance? StoryTerrace and Estorytellers excel at supporting newcomers. Do you need someone to handle everything from writing to marketing? Scribe Media and Kevin Anderson & Associates offer end-to-end solutions.

Take time to research each option thoroughly before committing. Many services offer initial consultations or sample projects that allow you to test compatibility before investing fully. This practical approach helps ensure you find the perfect ghostwriting partner who understands your vision and can bring your book to life effectively.

The ghostwriting industry continues to evolve with options ranging from traditional high-touch services to AI-assisted alternatives that cut costs substantially. Choosing might seem challenging at first, but matching your specific needs with the right service will set your publishing journey on the path to success.

We hope this guide has helped you understand the ghostwriting options available to you in 2025. And PaperTrue is always here to help you in your ghostwriting process with their professional editing and proofreading services!

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