10 Best Ghostwriting Services in 2026: Pricing, Services & What to Look For

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10 best ghostwriting services in 2026 with pricing and services

Writing a book sounds exciting until you face the blank page. You may have a great story, years of experience, or a message you want to share, but turning those ideas into a complete book takes time and skill. That is where professional book writing services can help.

The best ghostwriting services work with authors to turn ideas, interviews, notes, or rough drafts into readable manuscripts. Some focus on full-length books, while others also offer editing, publishing, book marketing, proposals, or shorter writing projects. Prices can range from a few thousand dollars to well over $100,000, depending on the writer, project length, research, and level of support.

This guide compares 10 ghostwriting providers based on publicly available information about their services, pricing, processes, and areas of expertise. Because “affordable” means different things to different authors, the list includes lower-cost options as well as companies that offer more extensive services at higher price points.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Ghostwriting prices vary widely based on the book’s length, genre, research needs, writer experience, and included services.
  • Some best ghost writer services offer simple manuscript writing, while others provide editing, publishing, formatting, and marketing.
  • A lower price does not always mean better value. Check what is included before signing a contract.
  • The right service depends on your budget, timeline, genre, writing goals, and how much help you need.
  • Always confirm ownership rights, revision limits, deadlines, payment terms, and deliverables before starting.

Quick Comparison of the Best Ghostwriting Services

Ghostwriting ServiceBest ForPrice RangeMain ServicesTypical Timeline
Liberty Book WritersAuthors seeking writing-to-marketing support$750 – $2,500Writing, editing, publishing, marketingProject dependent
ReedsyFinding individual ghostwritersVaries by writerShort-form, proposals, book ghostwritingVaries
Gotham GhostwritersBusiness and nonfiction books$40,000–$300,000+Ghostwriting, proposals, thought leadership6–18 months
Ghostwriting LLCAuthors seeking a dedicated ghostwriting provider$25,000–$45,000+Ghostwriting and book servicesProject dependent
The Urban WritersAuthors seeking scalable writing support$588–$1132 Ghostwriting and content servicesProject dependent
Ghostwriting SagaFiction and nonfiction projectsCustom quoteGhostwriting, editing, publishing supportProject dependent
Authors BreezeBudget-conscious book projectsFrom $1,500Writing, editing, publishing45–90 days
Scribe MediaFull-service nonfiction publishing$56,000+ for ProfessionalGhostwriting, editing, design, publishingAbout 9–12 months
Kevin Anderson & AssociatesPremium book development$57,500–$250,000Ghostwriting, editing, publishing navigationProject dependent
StoryTerraceMemoirs and life stories$3250-$24,000+Ghostwriting, editing, designProject dependent

Prices and timelines can change, and many providers price projects according to length, scope, writer experience, and services included. Always request a current quote before making a decision.

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How We Selected the Best Ghostwriting Services

Price was an important factor because authors have very different budgets. Rather than limiting the list to low-cost providers, we included services across a wide range of price points so readers can compare what different levels of investment provide.

We looked at publicly available information about each provider’s services, pricing transparency, writing specialties, project process, and additional support. We also considered whether a company offers useful services beyond basic manuscript writing, such as editing, publishing guidance, formatting, or marketing.

This approach matters because two companies can charge very different amounts while offering very different levels of service. For example, one provider may deliver a manuscript, while another may pair writing with editing, cover design, publishing, and distribution.

The information below is based primarily on publicly available provider information. Company-reported experience, testimonials, bestseller claims, and service descriptions should be understood as claims made by the companies themselves unless independently verified.

Prices and package details were checked against provider websites where publicly available. Where a provider does not publish standardized pricing, we identify pricing as quote-based rather than estimating a number

Pricing and service information last checked: September 2026.

10 Ghostwriting Services to Consider in 2026

1. Liberty Book Writers

Liberty Book Writers homepage

Overview: 

Liberty Book Writers is a ghostwriting and publishing company that helps authors develop book ideas into complete manuscripts. The company provides support across several stages of the publishing process, including writing, editing, formatting, publishing, and marketing. Its services cover both fiction and nonfiction projects, making it an option for authors who want to work with one provider throughout different stages of their book journey. Authors comparing options for the best ghostwriting company should consider the provider’s services, experience, pricing, communication, and project terms before making a decision. 

Best for: Authors looking for a dedicated ghostwriting company

Pricing: Custom quote

Timeline: Depends on project scope

Best Genres

  • Fiction
  • Nonfiction
  • Memoirs
  • Business books
  • Self-help
  • Children’s books

Services Offered

  • Book ghostwriting
  • eBook writing
  • Book editing and proofreading
  • Book formatting
  • Publishing assistance
  • Book cover design
  • Book marketing

Pros

  • Offers multiple book-related services
  • Supports fiction and nonfiction projects
  • Provides publishing and marketing support
  • Suitable for authors seeking an end-to-end service

Cons

  • Pricing is not publicly listed as a standard rate
  • Final cost depends on project scope
  • Authors should confirm deliverables and revision terms

2. Reedsy

Reedsy ghostwriting services homepage

Source: Reedsy

Overview: 

Reedsy is a professional marketplace that connects authors with experienced ghostwriters and other publishing professionals. Instead of providing one fixed writing team, it allows authors to explore individual writer profiles, review their experience, compare relevant samples, and request project quotes. The platform also provides access to editors, designers, marketers, and other professionals who can support different stages of book creation.

Best for: Authors who want to compare and hire individual ghostwriters

Pricing: Writer-specific quotes

Timeline: Depends on the writer and project scope

Best Genres

  • Fiction
  • Nonfiction
  • Memoirs
  • Business
  • Self-help
  • Biography
  • Young adult
  • Children’s books

Services Offered

  • Book ghostwriting
  • Short-form ghostwriting
  • Book proposal writing
  • Editing
  • Book design
  • Book marketing
  • Publishing support

Pros

  • Large network of publishing professionals
  • Authors can compare individual writers
  • Genre-specific writer selection
  • Multiple publishing services available

Cons

  • Pricing varies between professionals
  • Authors must choose the right writer themselves
  • Experienced writers can have higher rates

3. Gotham Ghostwriters

Gotham Ghostwriters homepage

Source: Gotham Ghostwriters

Overview: 

Gotham Ghostwriters is a professional ghostwriting agency serving authors, executives, entrepreneurs, and other public-facing professionals. The company works on books as well as articles, speeches, white papers, and thought-leadership content. Its network includes writers with experience across different subjects and formats, allowing projects to be matched with professionals based on the author’s goals, subject matter, writing style, and required level of support.

Best for: Executives, entrepreneurs, and nonfiction authors

Pricing: $40,000–$60,000 for basic projects & $150,000–$300,000+ for elite projects

Timeline: Depends on project scope

Best Genres

  • Business
  • Leadership
  • Memoir
  • Self-help
  • Thought leadership
  • Professional nonfiction

Services Offered

  • Book ghostwriting
  • Book proposals
  • Articles
  • White papers
  • Speeches
  • Thought-leadership content
  • Executive communications

Pros

  • Experienced professional writing network
  • Supports books and other content
  • Suitable for business and nonfiction projects
  • Offers different levels of writing support

Cons

  • Full-book projects can require a significant budget
  • Pricing varies by project and writer
  • May not suit authors with very limited budgets

4. Ghostwriting LLC

Ghostwriting LLC homepage

Source: Ghostwriting LLC

Overview: 

Ghostwriting LLC provides book writing and publishing services for authors who need help developing and completing manuscripts. Its services extend beyond ghostwriting to areas such as editing, book design, publishing, and marketing. The company offers different service packages, allowing authors to select support based on their project requirements. This approach can be useful for authors who prefer to manage several publishing tasks through one provider.

Best for: Authors seeking bundled writing and publishing services

Pricing:  $25,000–$30,000 for its Standard Creative package (200–300 pages); $35,000–$45,000+ for Premium projects of 350+ pages.

Timeline: Depends on project scope

Best Genres

  • Fiction
  • Nonfiction
  • Business
  • Memoirs
  • Self-help
  • Other book-length projects

Services Offered

  • Ghostwriting
  • Book writing
  • Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Book publishing
  • Cover design
  • Book marketing

Pros

  • Provides multiple publishing services
  • Offers writing and marketing support
  • Supports different book categories
  • Package options can simplify project planning

Cons

  • Larger projects can require a higher budget
  • Package costs vary by project
  • Authors should review exactly what each package includes

5. The Urban Writers

The Urban Writers homepage

Source: The Urban Writers

Overview: 

The Urban Writers provides writing and creative services for authors, publishers, businesses, and other clients. Its services cover book writing, editing, cover design, illustrations, translation, and online content. The company works with a network of creative professionals, giving clients access to different types of writing and production support. This makes it useful for authors who need help with multiple content formats or publishing-related tasks.

Best for: Authors needing flexible writing and creative services

Pricing: Project-based pricing

Timeline: Depends on project requirements

Best Genres

  • Fiction
  • Nonfiction
  • eBooks
  • Romance
  • Fantasy
  • Children’s books
  • General book projects

Services Offered

  • Fiction writing
  • Nonfiction writing
  • Editing
  • Cover design
  • Illustrations
  • Translation
  • SEO content
  • Content creation

Pros

  • Wide range of creative services
  • Supports fiction and nonfiction
  • Offers design and editing services
  • Useful for different content formats

Cons

  • Pricing varies by project
  • Quality can differ between individual professionals
  • Authors should review relevant samples before hiring

6. Ghostwriting Saga

Ghostwriting Saga homepage

Source: Ghostwriting Saga

Overview: 

Ghostwriting Saga offers book ghostwriting and publishing support through structured service packages. Its services can cover several stages of book production, including outlining, writing, editing, proofreading, formatting, cover design, and publishing. 

The package-based approach gives authors different options based on their manuscript requirements and desired level of assistance. It can be useful for authors who prefer to handle multiple book-production tasks with one provider.

Best for: Authors wanting an all-in-one book production service

Pricing: Package-based pricing

Timeline: Approximately 8–20 weeks, depending on package

Best Genres

  • Fiction
  • Nonfiction
  • Memoirs
  • Self-help
  • Business books
  • Other book-length projects

Services Offered

  • Ghostwriting
  • Book outlining
  • Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Book formatting
  • Cover design
  • Publishing
  • eBook creation

Pros

  • Structured service packages
  • Multiple book-production services
  • Editing and proofreading options
  • Publishing support available

Cons

  • Package costs vary
  • Larger projects require more time
  • Authors should review revision and ownership terms

7. Authors Breeze

Authors Breeze homepage

Source: Authors Breeze

Overview: 

Authors Breeze provides ghostwriting and book publishing services through several service packages designed for different author needs. Its offerings can include writing, editing, proofreading, formatting, cover design, publishing, and marketing. The company also provides services for children’s books and other content projects. Its package-based approach gives authors a way to compare different levels of support before selecting services for their book.

Best for: Authors looking for packaged writing and publishing services

Pricing: Published package options

Timeline: Depends on the selected package

Best Genres

  • Fiction
  • Nonfiction
  • Children’s books
  • Memoirs
  • Self-help
  • Business books

Services Offered

  • Ghostwriting
  • Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Book formatting
  • Cover design
  • Publishing
  • Book marketing
  • Children’s book writing

Pros

  • Offers several service packages
  • Writing and publishing can be combined
  • Provides editing and formatting
  • Marketing services are available

Cons

  • Package features should be reviewed carefully
  • Costs vary between service levels
  • Authors should confirm current pricing before purchasing

8. Scribe Media

Scribe Media homepage

Source: Scribe Media

Overview: 

Scribe Media provides full-service book writing and publishing support, particularly for professionals, entrepreneurs, executives, and business authors. Its services can cover the writing, editing, design, publishing, distribution, and audiobook stages of a book project. Rather than focusing only on manuscript creation, Scribe offers a managed process designed to help authors move from their initial ideas through the production and publication of a finished book.

Best for: Business professionals and authors seeking full-service support

Pricing: $56,000 for Scribe Professional & $135,000+ for Elite

Timeline: 9–12 months for Professional

Best Genres

  • Business
  • Leadership
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Professional nonfiction
  • Memoirs
  • Thought leadership

Services Offered

  • Ghostwriting
  • Editing
  • Book design
  • Audiobook production
  • Publishing
  • Distribution
  • Publishing management
  • Launch support

Pros

  • Full-service book production
  • Strong focus on professional authors
  • Publishing and distribution support
  • Audiobook services available

Cons

  • Higher cost than many freelance options
  • Not designed for very small budgets
  • Projects require a longer commitment

9. Kevin Anderson & Associates

Kevin Anderson & Associates homepage

Source: Kevin Anderson & Associates

Overview: 

Kevin Anderson & Associates is a professional writing and editorial company that provides ghostwriting, editing, book proposals, and publishing-related support. Its services are designed for authors who want experienced professionals involved in developing and refining their books. The company works across several nonfiction categories and also provides support for children’s books. Its editorial focus can be particularly relevant to authors preparing manuscripts for the traditional publishing market.

Best for: Authors seeking professional writing and editorial support

Pricing: Packages include

Premier Package: $57,500–$95,000

Executive: $115,000–$250,000

Timeline: Depends on project scope

Best Genres

  • Nonfiction
  • Business
  • Memoir
  • Leadership
  • Children’s books
  • Professional books

Services Offered

  • Full-book ghostwriting
  • Book proposals
  • Editing
  • Developmental support
  • Manuscript review
  • Publishing guidance
  • Children’s book writing

Pros

  • Combines writing and editorial support
  • Offers book proposal services
  • Supports different book categories
  • Provides publishing-related guidance

Cons

  • Premium pricing
  • May not suit smaller budgets
  • Project costs vary based on requirements

10. StoryTerrace

StoryTerrace homepage

Source: StoryTerrace

Overview: 

StoryTerrace specializes in helping people turn personal experiences and life stories into professionally written books. Its process uses interviews to gather the author’s memories, experiences, and ideas before a professional writer develops them into a manuscript. The company focuses strongly on memoirs, biographies, family histories, and personal stories. It also provides editorial, design, and publishing-related support depending on the selected service package.

Best for: Authors creating memoirs, biographies, and life stories

Pricing: Package starting from $3,250 – $24,000.

Timeline: Depends on the selected package and project

Best Genres

  • Memoirs
  • Biographies
  • Family histories
  • Personal stories
  • Life stories
  • Executive memoirs

Services Offered

  • Professional ghostwriting
  • Author interviews
  • Book development
  • Editing
  • Book design
  • Printing
  • Publishing support
  • Marketing support

Pros

  • Strong focus on memoirs and life stories
  • Interview-based writing process
  • Professional writing support
  • Editing and design options
  • Multiple package levels

Cons

  • More specialized than general ghostwriting services
  • Full-length projects can become expensive
  • Authors should confirm which services are included in their package

Best Ghost Writer Services for Different Writing Needs

Not every author needs the same type of help. Someone writing a 1,000-word article has a very different project from someone creating an 80,000-word memoir.

Short-Form Ghostwriting

Short-form ghostwriting can include blog posts, articles, speeches, opinion pieces, newsletters, and thought-leadership content.

Reedsy lists short-form ghostwriting projects at about $500–$2,000, while Gotham lists professional op-eds and articles at higher rates depending on research, writer experience, and complexity.

If you only need help with a few articles, hiring a full-service book agency may be unnecessary. A specialized freelancer can sometimes handle the project more simply.

Book Proposal Writing

A book proposal is different from a manuscript. It is usually used to present a nonfiction book idea to literary agents or publishers.

A professional proposal may include the book concept, target audience, competing titles, author platform, chapter summaries, and sample chapters.

Reedsy lists book proposal projects at about $750–$10,000, while Gotham’s published 2026 guide gives a much higher range for accomplished professional ghostwriters.

The difference shows why authors should compare the writer’s experience and the actual scope of work rather than choosing based on price alone.

Book Ghostwriting

Full book ghostwriting involves much more than typing words.

A professional writer may interview you, organize your ideas, research the subject, build an outline, write chapters, capture your voice, revise the manuscript, and work with an editor.

For example, Reedsy reports an average book ghostwriting rate of about $450 per 1,000 words based on its 2025 marketplace collaborations.

Professional Book Writers for Different Genres

The writer you choose should understand your type of book.Working with experienced professional book writers can help ensure that the manuscript follows the conventions and expectations of its genre. 

A memoir needs strong storytelling and careful handling of personal experiences. A business book may need research, clear explanations, and practical examples. Fiction requires character development, plot structure, dialogue, and a strong sense of pacing.

This is also where different types of writing styles matter. A writer who creates simple business nonfiction may not be the right match for a fast-paced thriller.

Ghost Writing Companies: What Services Do They Offer?

Different ghost writing companies can provide very different packages.

One company may focus only on writing. Another may provide a complete path from your first idea to a published book.

Book Writing Services

These can include outlining, interviews, research, drafting, revisions, and voice development.

Editing and Proofreading

Editing can improve structure and clarity, while proofreading catches smaller errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting.

Book Formatting

Formatting prepares a manuscript for print or digital publication.

Publishing Assistance

Publishing support may include preparing files, setting up distribution, or helping authors understand publishing options.

Book Marketing Services

Some companies also offer book marketing services, such as author websites, social media assistance, launch planning, or promotional materials.

If you plan on writing an eBook for Amazon Kindle or another digital platform, ask whether eBook formatting and publishing setup are included or charged separately.

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How to Choose the Right Ghostwriting Service

Choosing a ghostwriter should feel more like hiring a business partner than buying a simple product. When comparing top book writing companies, look beyond the advertised price and consider their writing process, genre experience, communication, revisions, ownership terms, timeline, and the services included in the agreement.

Define Your Budget

Know how much you can comfortably spend before requesting quotes. A clear budget helps agencies recommend an appropriate level of service.

Consider Your Book’s Genre

Look for experience with books similar to yours. Genre knowledge can affect everything from tone and structure to research and storytelling.

Check Writer Experience and Samples

Ask for relevant samples. If you are writing a memoir, reading a business article by the same writer may not tell you much about their ability to handle personal storytelling.

Compare What’s Included

Do not compare two prices until you know what each package includes.

Check:

  • Writing
  • Research
  • Interviews
  • Editing
  • Revisions
  • Proofreading
  • Formatting
  • Cover design
  • Publishing
  • Marketing

Confirm Timeline and Revisions

Ask when work will begin, when drafts will arrive, and how many revision rounds are included.

Review Ownership and Confidentiality Terms

Make sure the agreement clearly explains who owns the manuscript, how royalties are handled, and whether the ghostwriter can publicly identify themselves as a collaborator.

Look for Transparent Pricing

A good quote should tell you what you are paying for.

Be cautious when a provider gives you only a large total without explaining the work included. You should be able to understand what happens at each stage.

Ghostwriter vs. AI: Which Option Fits Your Project?

AI tools can help authors brainstorm ideas, organize notes, create outlines, and explore different approaches. But AI and a human ghostwriter are not the same service.

FactorHuman GhostwriterAI Writing
Human collaborationYesLimited
Personal voiceHighly customizableDepends on prompts and editing
CostHigherUsually lower
ResearchHuman-led and reviewedRequires careful verification
RevisionsCollaborativePrompt-based
Project managementMay be includedUsually not
Publishing supportSometimes includedUsually separate

A human ghostwriter can interview you and ask follow-up questions when an idea is unclear. They can also notice small details in your stories and use them to make the manuscript sound more personal.

AI can still be useful as a supporting tool. For example, an author might use it to brainstorm chapter ideas before discussing those ideas with a professional writer.

The important point is to decide what you actually need. If you need a partner who can listen, question, research, write, revise, and help shape a book, a human ghostwriter may be a better match. If you mainly need help organizing your thoughts, AI may be useful as part of your writing process.

Final Thoughts 

Choosing the best ghostwriting services is about value, not simply finding the cheapest or most expensive option. Compare each provider’s experience, genre expertise, writing process, revisions, ownership terms, timeline, communication, and included services.

For smaller projects, platforms such as Reedsy can make it easier to compare writers and prices. For complex books, ghost writing companies offering writing, editing, publishing, and marketing may provide more complete support. When comparing best ghost writer services and book writing companies, consider the full scope of work rather than the advertised price alone.

If you need a custom fiction book writing service, review genre-specific samples, storytelling skills, and revision policies. Book writing experts should also understand your intended audience and writing style. Authors considering Liberty book Writers should request a current project-specific quote and compare its services, terms, and deliverables with other providers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Ghostwriter Typically Cost?

Ghostwriter costs vary by project. Short projects may cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, while full-length books can cost tens of thousands. Reedsy reports an average of about $450 per 1,000 words, while Gotham lists many professional business-book projects at $40,000–$300,000+. Price depends on length, genre, research, experience, and revisions.

What Are the Red Flags When Hiring a Ghostwriter?

Watch for unclear contracts, vague deliverables, unrealistic promises, unclear ownership terms, and unusually low prices. Before hiring, confirm the payment schedule, revisions, confidentiality, rights, timeline, and exactly what the fee includes.

How Can I Hire a Ghostwriter to Write My Book?

Define your genre, audience, word count, budget, deadline, and publishing goals. Then compare relevant writers or agencies, review samples, discuss your ideas, and request a written proposal. Before starting, ensure the contract clearly covers payment, revisions, ownership, confidentiality, and deadlines.

How Do I Find a Reputable Ghost Writer?

Look for relevant experience, strong samples, clear communication, and transparent project terms. Platforms such as Reedsy allow authors to compare professional profiles and request quotes. Whether you choose an individual writer or one of the best ghostwriting services, focus on experience that matches your genre and project.

How Much Do You Have to Pay a Ghost Writer?

There is no standard fee. Short projects may cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, while full books can cost tens of thousands or more. For example, Authors Breeze lists packages from $1,500, while Scribe’s Professional service is priced at $56,000. These prices vary because the included services are different.

What Is the Average Cost to Write and Publish a Book?

The total cost depends on the services required. Authors may pay for ghostwriting, editing, proofreading, cover design, formatting, publishing, distribution, and marketing. A basic writing project can cost much less than a full-service package, so compare the complete scope of work rather than the writing fee alone.

Who Are Some of the Best Ghost Writers in the USA?

There is no single list that suits every author because the right writer depends on genre, budget, goals, and writing style. Authors can explore professional writers through Reedsy or agencies such as Gotham Ghostwriters and Kevin Anderson & Associates. Review relevant samples and experience before choosing among best ghost writer services.


About the Author

Sila Star is a writer specializing in ghostwriting, publishing, content development, and author services, with six years of professional experience in the publishing industry. Her background combines writing expertise with practical knowledge of manuscript development, author collaboration, storytelling, and editorial processes, allowing her to create well-researched content for aspiring and established authors. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing along with professional certifications in ghostwriting, copyediting, and book publishing.

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