How it works
Ghostwriting engagements with Find the Words
Writing a book is a deeply personal process. Here’s what you can expect when we work together:
First, a conversation.
We start with a free 25-minute chat. This is a vibe check, not a sales pitch. You tell me a little about your idea, what stage you're in, and where you're stuck or unsure. I’ll offer some initial reflections and gently ask some nosy questions. You’ll decide if you'd like to keep going or ask questions about my services.
Depending on what you and your book’s needs, there are a few ways to collaborate.
Book coaching is for authors who want to get a lot of work done themselves or develop their idea further. I’ll provide structure, insight, and accountability — focused on your idea and your process of developing it. I’ll help you make smart decisions early, avoid common pitfalls, and identify fun and easy methods of writing in your own voice. We begin with a 2- or 6-session package.
Ghostwriting is for authors who want to share their story and ideas, but don’t want to do all the writing. I gather source material through recorded interviews, notes, and any drafts you’ve started. We talk through the heart of your project and make key creative decisions together. Then I write it — in your voice, for your audience — and revise it collaboratively with you. We begin with a test chapter.
Choose your path.
Conversational: We work through dialogue. Whether you’re coaching or ghostwriting, I guide you with questions that clarify what you actually mean to say.
Unique: Every book is different, so I tailor the process to fit your time, needs, and goals. I don’t have a generic “book in 90 days” formula.
Experimental: We’ll try things. We’ll make bold choices. We’ll change our minds.
Human: We won’t use generative AI while writing your book. This is about your story, your thinking, your voice. We’re developing a book that only you can write.
Values-driven: Most of my clients are people working in climate, mental health, or coaching. If your work is about helping people or building something better, we’ll get along.
What it’s like to work with me.
Two quirks.
I need to meet you; if you don’t live in Portland, we’ll need to find a way to schedule a one-week in-person “sprint”. If you do live in Portland, we can have some of our working sessions at my co-working space or on my porch.
Feedback is key; we will be sharing drafts with test readers. I will facilitate this process. This can feel like an extra step, but it’s absolutely critical for ensuring an impactful reading experience.
Time + money.
Coaching starts at $450 for a 2-session “Trellis” package.
Test chapter contracts last one month, cost $750, and come with one round of feedback/edits. The material belongs to you even if we don’t move forward.
Full-book ghostwriting is an investment of between $30,000-$55,000 depending on the scope and length.
One of the reasons I offer coaching is to help reduce the cost of completing your book. We can begin there and then shift gears.
Expect to invest at least 4 months to execute a well-developed idea or at least 6 months to develop an emerging concept and write it. Prepare to “hold” one hour for me most weeks.
We’ll always talk through options before you commit to anything. If I’m not the right fit, I’ll try to refer you to someone who might be.
Whether your book idea is simmering on the back burner or you’re knee-deep in a draft, we can figure out the next step together.
Ready to explore?