Do Ghost Book Writing Services Include Editing?

Ghost Book Writing Services

Table of Contents:

1. Intro

2. What Are Ghost Book Writing Services?

3. Editing in Ghostwriting: What’s Included?

4. Types of Editing Authors Should Expect

5. Industry Insights and Data

6. Why Editing Matters in Ghostwriting

7. FAQs

8. Final Thoughts

1. Intro

In the ever-expanding publishing world, many authors—especially entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and busy professionals—are turning to Ghost Book Writing Services to bring their stories to life. But one of the most common questions is: Do ghostwriting services also include editing?

The short answer is yes—but it depends on the provider and the package you choose. In this blog, we’ll explore what you should expect in terms of editing when hiring a ghostwriter and why it’s a crucial part of the writing process.

2. What Are Ghost Book Writing Services?

Ghost Book Writing Services refer to professional writing services where an experienced ghostwriter writes a book on behalf of someone else. The client gets full credit as the author, while the ghostwriter remains anonymous.

These services are often used for:

• Autobiographies & memoirs

• Business & leadership books

• Fiction & non-fiction manuscripts

• Self-help or educational books

Most ghostwriting packages include brainstorming, outlining, interviews, writing, and yes—some level of editing.

3. Editing in Ghostwriting: What’s Included?

The level of editing offered in Ghost Book Writing Services can vary. Generally, most reputable services include at least one round of editing. Here’s what may be covered:

• Basic Proofreading: Correcting grammar, punctuation, spelling

• Copyediting: Improving sentence structure, consistency, clarity

• Line Editing: Enhancing tone, pacing, and language flow

• Developmental Editing (in premium packages): Structural rewrites, plot improvement, chapter arrangement

Some services even offer professional editing as a separate package for an additional fee, especially if the manuscript requires multiple revisions or niche-specific language polishing.

4. Types of Editing Authors Should Expect

Let’s break down the types of editing you might encounter:

1. Developmental Editing

This is the earliest stage of editing, where the focus is on structure, concept, and flow. For instance, does the story make sense? Are chapters in the right order? Are characters or arguments well-developed?

2. Line Editing

Here, the editor fine-tunes your writing, polishing every sentence to ensure clarity and coherence while maintaining your voice.

3. Copyediting

Grammar, punctuation, spelling, and style consistency are the focus. It’s the fine brushwork before a book moves to publishing.

4. Proofreading

The final sweep. No story changes—just fixing surface-level typos or formatting issues.

Ghost Book Writing Services typically bundle copyediting and proofreading, but line and developmental editing might be available as add-ons or in premium plans.

5. Industry Insights and Data

Here are some key statistics to keep in mind:

•  According to Reedsy, nearly 60% of authors who hire ghostwriters also request editing services.

•  Books that go through professional editing are 2.5x more likely to receive positive reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.

• A 2023 report by Writer’s Digest showed that 78% of ghostwriting clients expected editing to be included in their contract, yet only 64% received full editorial services.

• Hiring separate editors can cost an additional $0.03–$0.08 per word, making bundled editing in ghostwriting packages a more cost-effective solution.

6. Why Editing Matters in Ghostwriting

Without proper editing, even the best ideas can fall flat. Editing enhances your book’s readability, credibility, and marketability.

Here’s why editing is non-negotiable:

• Builds Author Credibility – A polished manuscript boosts your professional image.

• Improves Reader Engagement – Clear, well-edited content keeps readers turning pages.

• Increases Publishing Success – Publishers and platforms like Amazon favor quality manuscripts.

• Preserves Your Voice – Skilled editors ensure your tone and message remain intact.

A good ghostwriter won’t just write for you—they’ll make your voice shine through skilled writing and thoughtful editing.

7. FAQs

Q1: Are editing costs included in all ghostwriting packages?

Not always. Some ghostwriting services offer editing as part of the base package, while others charge separately depending on the type and level of editing.

Q2: Can I use my own editor after ghostwriting is done?

Yes, you can. Many authors choose to hire a second editor for a fresh perspective before publishing.

Q3: What if I need multiple revisions?

Most ghostwriting contracts specify the number of revisions. Always check how many rounds of edits are included upfront.

Q4: Is editing really necessary if a ghostwriter wrote the book?

Absolutely. Even experienced ghostwriters benefit from external editing to catch errors and refine the manuscript.

8. Final Thoughts

So, do Ghost Book Writing Services include editing? The answer is yes—but with conditions. Reputable services often offer editing as part of their packages, but the depth and type of editing can vary widely.

When choosing a ghostwriting service, always ask:

• What types of editing are included?

• Are multiple rounds of revisions allowed?

• Is editing done in-house or outsourced?

Your book deserves to be both well-written and professionally polished. By choosing the right ghostwriting service that includes editing, you're taking a giant step toward publishing a book you're proud of.