Will the book sound like the executive or like the ghostwriter?

The voice gets calibrated in the first two or three chapters. The early interviews capture not just content but how the executive actually talks, the phrases they use with their teams, the way they build arguments. The first chapters come back written in what the ghostwriter reads as the executive's voice. If something is off, the executive identifies what is wrong and the next pass corrects it. The early chapters get iterated until the executive reads a draft and recognizes themselves on the page. The rest of the book follows from there.

The Authority Book That Earns You Bigger Opportunities

Q: Who owns the rights to the finished book?

The executive does. The arrangement is work-for-hire, meaning the executive is the sole copyright holder the moment the manuscript is delivered. The executive can publish under their own name, sell the rights, license film or audio adaptations, or do nothing with the book. The ghostwriter has no claim on royalties, derivative rights, or future earnings. The contract spells this out in writing before any work begins.

Q: What experience does the practice have with executive books?

Richard Lowe has authored, ghostwritten, coached, or contributed to over 113 books. The executive book work spans founder memoirs, CEO authority books, technology and cybersecurity titles, sales and operations methodologies, and category-defining business books. Clients have included founders, CEOs, senior partners, and operators across technology, finance, healthcare, and professional services. The practice is specifically focused on executive books that function as business development assets rather than vanity projects.

Books for founders, CEOs, and senior executives. Built from interviews, delivered in four to six months.

What an Executive Book Actually Does for Your Business

An executive book is a credibility asset. Before a meeting, the prospect has read your book and arrived already understanding how you think. Speakers bureaus call you because there is a book that makes you bookable. Boards consider you for advisory roles because the book demonstrates a perspective worth having in the room. Venture capital partners take the call because a book on your subject signals you have spent enough time on the territory to be worth their attention.

None of this happens by accident. The book has to be specific enough to demonstrate real expertise, well-written enough to read, and structured around the audience whose attention you actually want. That is the work this practice does.

The Track Record Behind This Practice

Richard Lowe has written 113+ books and ghostwritten 54+ books. Client books have raised over $30 million in venture capital, landed TEDx invitations, opened keynote speaker bookings, and supported promotions into C-level roles. The practice has a specific focus on executive books that function as business development assets rather than vanity projects. Clients include founders, CEOs, senior partners, and operators across technology, finance, healthcare, and professional services.

What Client Books Have Actually Done

What You're Hiring When You Hire Me

You’re hiring 113+ books of experience, including dozens of executive books across technology, finance, healthcare, and professional services. The work is interview-driven and structured around your schedule. The book gets built from recordings of you talking through your perspective, drafted chapter by chapter, and refined to your voice before the manuscript is delivered.

Client outcomes have included over $30 million in venture capital raised, TEDx invitations, paid speaker bookings, and promotions into C-level and partner roles. The practice is specifically focused on books that function as business development assets rather than vanity projects.

The discovery call is where we put your specific project against what the practice does and decide whether it’s a fit. Most calls end with one of two outcomes: a clear path forward together, or a clear understanding of what kind of help you actually need. Either is useful.

A Sample of the Executive Books I've Contributed To

These are examples from the 113+ books I've authored, ghostwritten, coached, or contributed to as Technical Editor and Contributing Author. The executive book work spans founder memoirs, CEO authority books, technology and cybersecurity titles, sales and operations methodologies, and category-defining business books. Each project finds its own shape during interviews based on what the executive needs the book to do.

Where a Book Takes Your Career

A published executive book reshapes what’s available to you professionally. Specific examples from the practice’s client work, below.

How the Work Gets Done

The process is built for executives. Time is the binding constraint, so the work is structured to deliver a finished book with minimal demand on your calendar.

Discovery

A discovery call to define what the book needs to do for your business and your career. We cover audience, positioning, scope, timeline, and whether the practice is the right fit for your project before any contract gets signed.

Interviews and Drafting

Structured interviews capture your thinking, your stories, and your perspective. The recordings get transcribed and structured into a chapter outline you approve. Chapters then get drafted one at a time from the recordings, sent to you for review, and refined to your voice in the early chapters until the manuscript reads like you.

Final Manuscript and Publishing Path

The manuscript gets a final editorial pass and is delivered in the formats you need. The discovery call covers which publishing path fits your goals, whether that's traditional submission, hybrid publishing, or self-publishing with a clear launch plan. Publishing support continues through the path you choose.

About Richard Lowe

Richard Lowe is a professional ghostwriter and bestselling author. He has authored 113+ books and ghostwritten 54+ more for executives, founders, coaches, and public figures. His clients have used their books to raise over $30 million in venture capital, land a TEDx invitation, and secure deals with traditional publishers. His own book How to Manage a Consulting Project was used as required reading in a course at Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management.

His current lead book, The Ghostwriting Advantage, is the comprehensive guide to hiring a ghostwriter. He also authored the bestselling Focus on LinkedIn and the publishing-journey trilogy: Make a Living as a Self-Published Author, Publish Your Book, and Sell Your Books. He served as Technical Editor and Contributing Author on Cyberheist, the cybersecurity book by KnowBe4 founder Stu Sjouwerman. His ongoing series include Enemies of You (nonfiction cultural commentary) and the Victorian fiction series — contemporary reimaginings of classic Victorian science fiction by Jules Verne and H.G. Wells.

Before becoming a full-time ghostwriter, Richard spent 33 years in enterprise technology, including 20 years as Director of Computer Operations at Trader Joe’s, where he managed infrastructure across 474+ stores. He hosts three interview podcasts — Leaders and Their Stories, Author Talks, and Conversations With Influencers — totaling 98 episodes, and has appeared as a guest on 100+ podcasts including The Chris Voss Show.

Want to explore all my ghostwriting insights? Visit the Ultimate Ghostwriting hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an executive book actually do for a business?

An executive book functions as a credibility asset. Prospects arrive at meetings having already read the book and understanding the executive’s perspective, which shortens decision cycles. Speakers bureaus return calls because the book makes the executive bookable. Boards consider the executive for advisory roles because the book demonstrates a perspective worth having in the room. Venture capital partners take meetings because a book signals serious investment in the subject area. Client books from this practice have supported over thirty million dollars in venture capital raised, TEDx invitations, paid speaker bookings, and promotions into C-level roles.

How much time does the executive need to commit?

Most projects require one to two hours of interview time per week across three to four months, plus chapter review time. Interviews are scheduled around the executive’s calendar. Recordings are transcribed and structured by the ghostwriter, so the executive does not need to write anything between sessions. The process is built specifically for people whose time is the binding constraint.

How long does an executive book take to complete?

Most executive book projects run four to six months from first interview to final manuscript. Shorter authority books at the leadership-essay end of the range finish faster. Longer founder memoirs and category-defining business books take longer. The discovery call is where a realistic timeline gets placed against the specific project, factoring in length, complexity, and the executive’s availability for interviews and reviews.

Will the book sound like me or like the ghostwriter?

The voice gets calibrated in the first two or three chapters. The early interviews capture not just content but how you actually talk, the phrases you use with your teams, the way you build arguments. The first chapters come back written in what I read as your voice. If something is off, you identify what is wrong and the next pass corrects it. The early chapters get iterated until you read a draft and recognize yourself on the page. The rest of the book follows from there.

Is the relationship confidential?

Yes. A nondisclosure agreement covers the project from start to finish. You are credited as sole author. My name does not appear anywhere unless you choose to acknowledge me. I do not list clients on my website or in marketing without explicit written permission. If a prospective client asks for references, I will not name you without prior authorization. The default position on every client is silence, and that holds during the project, after delivery, and indefinitely afterward.

Who owns the rights to the finished book?

You do. The arrangement is work-for-hire, meaning you are the sole copyright holder the moment the manuscript is delivered. You can publish under your own name, sell the rights, license film or audio adaptations, or do nothing with the book. I have no claim on royalties, derivative rights, or future earnings. The contract spells this out in writing before any work begins.

What publishing paths are available?

Three paths typically fit executive books. Traditional publishing through agent representation and major-house submission carries the most credential weight but takes the longest and offers the least control. Hybrid publishing provides professional production and distribution faster than traditional with less risk than self-publishing. Self-publishing with a structured launch plan provides full control, faster timeline, and full royalty share. The discovery call covers which path fits your specific goals, and publishing support continues through whichever path you choose.

What experience do you have with executive books?

I have authored, ghostwritten, coached, or contributed to over 113 books. The executive book work spans founder memoirs, CEO authority books, technology and cybersecurity titles, sales and operations methodologies, and category-defining business books. Clients have included founders, CEOs, senior partners, and operators across technology, finance, healthcare, and professional services. The practice is specifically focused on executive books that function as business development assets rather than vanity projects.

The Impact of Your Book

Client Testimonials for Richard Lowe Jr.

If you’re even thinking about having your own book, do yourself a favor and talk with Richard… FIRST!

I’ve worked with him extensively and finding someone matching his knowledge and EXPERIENCE would be hard.

He’s ghostwritten an incredible amount of titles! (48+ books)

On such a variety of subjects!

Plus, authored so many of his own!

Add in his corporate experience, a 33-year-long background in tech and leadership and you’ll know you’re dealing with an EXPERT!

He’s also a great source for rewriting and optimizing your LinkedIn Profile!

Richard comes with my wholehearted, highest recommendation!

Royce Blake

I’ve had the pleasure of translating some books by Richard, I was particularly impressed with Richard’s ability to write interesting, clever books in a simple and very clear style, easy to read, and full of useful tips at the same time. He has outstanding skills in communication, and working with him was a great and pleasant experience.

I highly recommend his books, and I hope in further collaborations on other projects

Sonia Dal Cason

Richard is a professional writer on the highest level. I was trying to write my book but with the help of Richard he made it so easy to work with to get my message across. In the end we have as a result a great sales book to help my clients. I would recommend Richard for everything you consider when you need help writing. Thanks for everything.

Benjamin Brown

I have worked with Richard to help him promote two of his books: “Real World Survival Tips” and “Safe Computing is Like Safe Sex”. He is professional and courteous and displays a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm in his writing. I look forward to working with him again.

Lynda Dickson

Richard Lowe Jr. is a powerhouse in self-publishing, LinkedIn branding, and book marketing. His depth of knowledge and structured approach to writing, coaching, and promotion are unmatched. He has authored 63 books, ghostwritten 52, and optimized over 300 LinkedIn profiles, helping professionals establish credibility and attract opportunities.

One example of his expertise is coaching a Fortune 50 senior VP in France, guiding him through the writing, structuring, and marketing of his book. Richard’s ability to simplify complex ideas and craft compelling narratives makes him an invaluable resource for thought leaders. His methodical approach ensures that every project is strategic, effective, and results-driven.

What truly sets Richard apart is his generosity in sharing knowledge. He doesn’t just write—he empowers. Whether through his books, LinkedIn branding services, or public speaking, he equips professionals with the tools to succeed. He understands that success isn’t just about publishing a book but about building a brand and authority in the industry.

If you need a skilled ghostwriter, book coach, or LinkedIn expert who delivers results, look no further. Richard’s expertise and professionalism make him an indispensable asset to anyone serious about growing their presence.

Robert Plank

Rich is a talented wordsmith, complete professional and a comfortable person to work with. Being a ghostwriter, he really knows how to interview and get to the heart of the story. Rich helped me weave my two disparate talents (professional musician and software consultant) into one coherent tale.

Now that Rich put me through his interview and rewriting process, when people read my profile, my software development talents dovetail perfectly with my musical journey.

It all makes sense! Get help from Richard Lowe, Jr., if you too wish to make sense to the world!

David Victor

As an editor, the enjoyment I get out of my job directly correlates with the quality of the writing I have to work with. I’ve collaborated with Richard on his book projects a number of times now and each one has been an absolute pleasure.

His writing is evocative and intelligent, and he has a masterful ability to take stories from life and weave them into revealing, compelling narratives. Plus, he’s an all-around nice person to work with.

Robin Schroffel

Richard was a big help for me with my LinkedIn profile. His review and suggestions of my LinkedIn profile along with his book Focus On LinkedIn, I have learned a lot on how I can use my profile to help others find me.

His experience as a writer is a wealth of information on how to communicate to others through writing

Bill Burges

Richard Lowe is a very talented writer who understands the importance of personal branding and SEO. Working as a Senior Branding Specialist at LinkedIn-Makeover.com he creates a unique professional story for each and every client. Richard will help you shine!

Dionne Carrick

Richard Lowe is an amazing writer. As a Branding Specialist, he sits in a unique position. He originally came to me as a client, to help him with his LinkedIn profile. Now, he is a certified Branding Specialist, helping clients brand themselves more effectively on LinkedIn. Richard is a fantastic listener and is able to weave an engaging professional story from a simple conversation.

Having worked in IT, Richard brings a wealth of technical knowledge few writers possess. I am thrilled to have him working with us at LinkedIn-Makeover.com and trust him to take care of our clients.

Donna Serdula

Richard help us get our thoughts down on paper. He is very dedicated to his writing and would be great to work with again.

Matt Fonk

Richard is a quality writer. Every piece of product he delivers is 100% quality! I have never met a writer with such insight as Richard.

Scott Romero

Talk With Richard About Your Book

Ready to talk about your book? Book a discovery call. We’ll spend 30 minutes on what you want the book to do for your business and your career, what you’ve already tried, and whether the practice is the right fit for your project. No pitch. No pressure. If we’re not a match, you’ll leave with a clearer sense of what kind of help your project actually needs.