The proposal is the audition. Build one agents take seriously.
For nonfiction, the proposal earns representation and a deal. The manuscript comes after. A submission-ready package that answers the three questions every agent asks: why this book, why now, why you.
Built by someone who has sat on both sides of the page: 113+ books authored, 54+ ghostwritten, member of the Nonfiction Authors Association and the Alliance of Independent Authors.
Most authors get the order backward. They write the entire book first, then discover that agents reject it in the opening paragraph because the proposal underneath it never made a case. For nonfiction, the proposal is the document that earns representation and a deal. The manuscript comes after.
A proposal has to answer three questions before anything else: why this book, why now, and why you. Every section in the package exists to answer those three convincingly. I know what an acquisitions editor is looking for when they decide whether a book is worth a contract, because I have built that case 54+ times for clients.
Proposal pricing
Book proposal development is a flat fee starting at $15,000, quoted for your project up front so you know the full cost before any work begins. The fee scales with the scope your book needs.
Flat fee, starting at
$15,000
That covers the complete, submission-ready package: query letter, title and subtitle development, discovery interviews, the overview, the annotated chapter outline, two polished sample chapters, a spec sheet, your author bio, platform analysis, marketing and promotion plan, and competitive title and market analysis.
The fee includes one complete round of revisions before the proposal goes to an agent. Any revisions after that are quoted up front, so you always know the cost before work begins. Most proposals do not need them.
Eleven components, each built to answer why this book, why now, and why you. Nothing invented, all of it mined from your interviews.
1
Discovery interviews
I interview you in depth to extract the concept, the central argument, your expertise, and the evidence that you are the right person to write this book. The raw material every other section is built from.
2
Title and subtitle
A working title and subtitle developed and tested. In nonfiction the title carries the promise and the subtitle the specifics; the proposal has to lead with one that already works.
3
The overview
The heart of the proposal: the hook, the core argument, the stakes, and the case for why this book matters now. The section an agent reads first, and it decides whether the rest gets read.
4
Annotated chapter outline
A chapter-by-chapter breakdown so an editor sees the full arc, structure, and payoff without reading manuscript. The blueprint that proves the book is fully thought through.
5
Two sample chapters
Two polished, publication-ready chapters that prove the book can be written at a professional level and the voice matches the promise. Agents need execution, not just intention.
6
Spec sheet
The book’s vital statistics: word count, format, delivery timeline, and special features. The practical details editors need to picture the finished book and slot it into a list.
7
About the author
Your bio rewritten as a credentials argument, not a resume. It establishes your authority and your right to write this specific book for this specific audience.
8
Platform analysis
A documented assessment of your reach: audience, list, social, speaking, media, standing. Agents want to know who you can sell to on day one. This quantifies it instead of asserting it.
9
Marketing and promotion plan
Your concrete plan to sell the book, with the assets and commitments you bring. Publishers expect authors to drive sales; this shows them, in specifics, that you will.
10
Competitive title analysis
The comparable books already selling, how yours is different and better, who buys them, and how large that audience is. Agents look specifically for this section.
11
Query letter
The one-page letter that goes to agents first and decides whether they ask to see the proposal at all. It distills the hook, your credentials, and the market into a few tight paragraphs.
What a proposal can do, and what it cannot
A proposal service that promises representation without acknowledging what a document can and cannot control is selling something that does not exist. Here is the honest map.
A strong proposal does
Make the business case for your book. Position you against the competition. Document your platform and reach. Prove you can execute through sample chapters. Give an agent everything they need to pitch you to editors. Open the door to representation.
A proposal cannot
Guarantee an agent or publisher says yes. Manufacture a platform you do not have. Sell a novel (fiction is sold on a finished manuscript). Replace genuine expertise or a real audience. Force a deal in a category with no market.
I will not build a proposal I do not believe an agent will take seriously. If your concept or platform is not ready, I will tell you before you spend money, not after.
How this fits with the other services
Book Proposal (this page) sells your nonfiction book to agents and publishers. It makes the case for the book; it does not write the book.
Full ghostwriting is the complete manuscript, written for you. In traditional publishing the order is deliberate: the proposal sells the book, then ghostwriting writes it on contract. Most clients on this path do both, in sequence. Self-publishing and not querying agents? Skip the proposal and go straight to ghostwriting.
Book Feasibility Intensive ($5,000) decides what book you should write before you build a proposal. The right start if the concept is not locked yet. Its fee credits toward a full ghostwriting engagement within 60 days.
Book Coaching guides you through writing the book yourself, in ten-hour blocks. For authors who want to do the writing with support instead of hand it off.
Why hire a professional for it
I have authored 113+ books under my own name and ghostwritten 54+ for clients across business, memoir, and technical nonfiction. I am a member of the Nonfiction Authors Association and the Alliance of Independent Authors. My clients have raised more than $30 million in venture capital on the strength of their books, and several have commanded keynote fees of $5,000 to $20,000 within 6 to 18 months of publishing.
I have sat on both sides of the page: the author who has to make the argument, and the ghostwriter who builds it for someone else. A proposal is an argument. I know how to win it. See my case studies and ghostwriting service.
What clients say
★★★★★
5 out of 5 · Based on 45 reviews
Stelios Cristakos
General Manager · Analysis Consulting ltd
★★★★★
Richard, my book coach and editor. Writing a book about mentoring is one thing. Having someone mentor you through the process of writing it is another. His advice was always precise, his ideas generous, and his patience remarkable. He understood what I was…Richard, my book coach and editor. Writing a book about mentoring is one thing. Having someone mentor you through the process of writing it is another. His advice was always precise, his ideas generous, and his patience remarkable. He understood what I was trying to say even when I hadn't yet found the words, and he pushed me to find them instead of offering his own. In that way, he practiced exactly what this book preaches: he didn't give me answers, he helped me think more clearly until I arrived at my own.Read More
Small Business Consultant · Elite Business Conversations
★★★★★
I’ve been on two of Richard’s podcasts now and have seen him in action across multiple marketing and business settings. Absolutely amazing guy, he knows all the ins and outs of how to write a book, but more importantly, how to use a book.
After working…I’ve been on two of Richard’s podcasts now and have seen him in action across multiple marketing and business settings. Absolutely amazing guy, he knows all the ins and outs of how to write a book, but more importantly, how to use a book.
After working with him, I do know without a doubt that I would never write my own book again. If I were to do it, there’s only one person I’d go to: The Writing King, Richard Lowe.Read More
Hey, I'm Gerry Mecca, and I have to tell you about Richard Lowe.
Richard and I met on a whim while I was between jobs, looking to elevate my brand and tell my story. He proposed writing a book, and we've been working on it ever since-probably longer than…Hey, I'm Gerry Mecca, and I have to tell you about Richard Lowe.
Richard and I met on a whim while I was between jobs, looking to elevate my brand and tell my story. He proposed writing a book, and we've been working on it ever since-probably longer than he'd like! But hey, I squeeze in the time when I can.
During this journey, Richard introduced me to books I never even knew existed-especially on wrestling, which is central to my book and the life lessons I've learned from it. But beyond that, he's become a true friend. We've been through a lot together, and I've come to trust him as both a writing mentor and a guide.
I want to write most of my book myself, but when Richard steps in, I know he's not just ghostwriting-he's writing with my heart. He gets me. That's rare.
📢 If you're thinking about writing a book, don't go it alone.
Richard has helped create bestsellers, but more importantly, he takes the time to truly understand you-your voice, your message, your goals. That discovery call with him? Worth every minute.
So if you're stuck, or just unsure where to start, Richard can get you moving in the right direction. He did for me.
Thanks, Richard. You're one of a kind.Read More
When you want to write a book, your ideas are not just enough. You need a tremendous help from the external also, external side to make it completely structured and take it all the way to the publishing. So, thank you, Richard, for your experience and…When you want to write a book, your ideas are not just enough. You need a tremendous help from the external also, external side to make it completely structured and take it all the way to the publishing. So, thank you, Richard, for your experience and supporting me in this process. This is my first book I'm publishing, and thanks a lot. Without your help, I couldn't have done it so easily.Read More
Found & Chief Technology Architect · Digital Samurai
★★★★★
So I've known Richard for a few months now. In fact, he's one of the best writers I've ever met because he's got so much experience. And more specifically, he's got experience in technical writing, which is unusual. Most people have generic experience, but…So I've known Richard for a few months now. In fact, he's one of the best writers I've ever met because he's got so much experience. And more specifically, he's got experience in technical writing, which is unusual. Most people have generic experience, but finding someone who can write and is technical is unusual. And Richard fills that bill. He's done books in all different types of genres, and he understands the structure and format you need for a book.
You can't just do a book in a box type of approach and expect it to really last. If you want a lasting thing that you can use, then Richard is really the guy you want because he takes care in every word that he writes. He knows how to pull that information out of you to get the best out of you to make your book shine. So not just a book, it's a legacy. I would recommend Richard to anyone who's looking to build a legacy. He's looking for a unique marketing asset that nobody else has. You want to get the best, and Richard is the best.Read More
Mindset Shift and Leadership Expert · Gemma & Sascha
★★★★★
Hello, everyone. My name is Sasha Gorokhoff, and today I want to talk to you about my friend Richard Lowe. He's an incredible person and an exceptional ghostwriter.
You might be wondering, Why do I need a ghostwriter? After all, you can put your own words…Hello, everyone. My name is Sasha Gorokhoff, and today I want to talk to you about my friend Richard Lowe. He's an incredible person and an exceptional ghostwriter.
You might be wondering, Why do I need a ghostwriter? After all, you can put your own words on paper. But what Richard does goes far beyond that. He brings an outsider's perspective, infused with emotional intelligence, to craft a compelling, engaging story that truly comes alive.
That's what makes him such a remarkable professional. He doesn't just write-he breathes life into words. His writing communicates emotions, depth, and meaning, making your book not just readable but unforgettable. Whether you're using your book to establish authority, land speaking engagements, or attract more clients, Richard ensures it resonates with your audience on a profound level.
The best part? He takes the entire process off your hands and does it for you, all while maintaining your authentic voice. I don't know how he does it, but he has an extraordinary ability to capture you on the page. His deep emotional intelligence allows him to craft stories that feel personal, powerful, and real.
I highly recommend speaking with Richard to see how he can help bring your story to life. He doesn't just write books-he creates experiences that connect with readers in a meaningful way.
Thank you.Read More
Hey, this is Ben The Automator Christiansen, and I've been working with Richard Lowe, aka The Writing King. Just one session with him was incredible-breathtaking, even.
If you've ever tried writing a book, you know that writer's block is inevitable. For…Hey, this is Ben The Automator Christiansen, and I've been working with Richard Lowe, aka The Writing King. Just one session with him was incredible-breathtaking, even.
If you've ever tried writing a book, you know that writer's block is inevitable. For me, it hit hard at the four-month mark. I reached out to Richard and asked, What do I do next? His response was simple but powerful-he gave me the exact guidance I needed, and just like that, everything clicked.
If you're even considering writing a book, I highly recommend reaching out to Richard. He can help with ghostwriting, publishing, and a wealth of other resources. You can find him at thewritingking.com or on LinkedIn. Don't waste time-go talk to him now!Read More
Let me tell you about my good friend, Richard Lowe. He’s the kind of writer whose work speaks for itself, literally. You may never know the incredible rock stars, movie legends, and high-profile figures he's worked with because their stories are meant to be…Let me tell you about my good friend, Richard Lowe. He’s the kind of writer whose work speaks for itself, literally. You may never know the incredible rock stars, movie legends, and high-profile figures he's worked with because their stories are meant to be theirs alone. But trust me, they know. And they’re beyond grateful to have chosen the right person to bring their stories to life.
Richard doesn’t just take words and put them on a page. He has a rare talent for pulling stories out of people, shaping them in a way that feels utterly authentic, as if they wrote every word themselves. There’s no artificiality, no disconnect. What he creates isn’t just ghostwriting; it’s a seamless extension of their own voice, their own truth.
I’m honored to call Richard a friend, and I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work he does. If you’re looking for someone who can transform your vision into a book that feels 100% you, Richard is the writer you need.Read More
Senior Product Marketing Manager · BSH Home Appliances Corporation - North America
★★★★★
Hi, everyone. I just want to take a quick moment to give a huge shout-out to Richard, who has been an incredible part of my marketing team. He does all my social media and then all the content writer, and then he has been crafting messages and drive awareness…Hi, everyone. I just want to take a quick moment to give a huge shout-out to Richard, who has been an incredible part of my marketing team. He does all my social media and then all the content writer, and then he has been crafting messages and drive awareness for my per my own personal brand. He is absolutely amazing. He has this great talent of creating great connections with people, and also it's just really being refreshing and really exciting as well.
What I really appreciate about Richard is that he is always on top of everything. He's fast and reliable, He always delivers top-notch work. So anything, from deadlines to quality, he has you covered. So if you're looking for somebody who can help you with your, content and marketing, I can't recommend Richard enough. I have really enjoyed working with him, so I know you will as well.
So thanks for everything, Richard. Good job.Read More
Feb 26, 2025
Robert Plank
Founder · DFY Podcasts
★★★★★
Richard Lowe 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 113+ books, ghostwritten 54+, and optimized over 100…Richard Lowe 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 113+ books, ghostwritten 54+, and optimized over 100 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.Read More
Hi. I'm Royce Blake, and I'm also a writer, but a copywriter, content marketer. If you're thinking about having an actual book, one you can call your own, and by the way, nothing builds credibility faster than having your own book to lay on a prospect's. I…Hi. I'm Royce Blake, and I'm also a writer, but a copywriter, content marketer. If you're thinking about having an actual book, one you can call your own, and by the way, nothing builds credibility faster than having your own book to lay on a prospect's. I would reach out to a guy I've collaborated with for years now, and that would be Richard Lowe. I mean, the guy has published over a 113 and ghostwritten over 54 more, and he knows everything from, secrets about book covers to whether you should self-publish or not.
So even if you're you're just considering it, I would definitely reach out to Richard Lowe and see what he has to say. He's easy to get along with, funny, a great guy. I would totally trust him, and well worth your time just to get in touch. So check out Richard Lowe. I highly recommend him.
As I said, we've been we've been hanging around together for a few years, and he's got a lot of experience. So why not someone that's been there and done that? I highly recommend Richard Lowe.Read More
Hi, I'm Dan McClintock, and I am writing a book. If you've ever thought about writing a book, let me tell you, there's far more to it than just putting words on a page, finding a publisher and waiting for the checks to roll in. Even with a winning idea based…Hi, I'm Dan McClintock, and I am writing a book. If you've ever thought about writing a book, let me tell you, there's far more to it than just putting words on a page, finding a publisher and waiting for the checks to roll in. Even with a winning idea based on my years of experience, research and a unique perspective, I was naive about what it takes to get to the final product. I was clueless about the level of marketing, the complexity in deciding whether to use a traditional publisher or to self-publish. Or even the writing techniques I would need to learn to make it past the editor and into print. Luckily, I stumbled across Richard Lowe's profile on LinkedIn, and the concept of a ghostwriter instantly intrigued me.
With over 113 books written and published under his name and 54 additional books as a ghostwriter, the writing king seemed like an appropriate title for him. I booked a free appointment and interviewed Richard, and in one 30-minute meeting, I gained insight and information that made it obvious I needed help. Richard was very candid, and it was clear that he knows the subject of writing books. He gave me tips on what I needed to prepare for, including moving from my idea through mind mapping and outlining, how long my book should be, understanding the purpose of the book, reviewing the options and costs associated with editing and publishing. He even provided me with a high level marketing plan. He also gave me the option of ghostwriting the book for me or coaching me through the process of writing it on my own.
Our initial meeting made me realize just how unprepared I was to write my own book. Thankfully, I knew I had just met a capable coach in Richard and he has indeed been a tremendous help in getting me to my goal. He happily shares his knowledge and experience, guiding me through a step-by-step process. As a thoughtful and highly conscientious partner, he's even shared valuable tips in starting up my own coaching business, which directly ties to the purpose of my book. Look, every successful executive I know has a team of trusted advisors providing them with sage advice.
If you have any interest in writing a book, even if you don't have the subject nailed down, I strongly encourage you to find an advisor like Richard to help you through the process. Hey, why just settle for any advisor when you can take your guidance directly from the King? Book an appointment with the writing King. The world is waiting to hear your story. Stay tuned for mine.Read More
Proposal clients face the traditional-publishing gauntlet, and the doubts that come with it.
Do I even need an agent and a proposal?
Only for the traditional route. If speed, control, and economics favor self-publishing for your goals, I will say so before you spend proposal money; the two paths are different products serving different aims. When traditional is right, the proposal is the entire audition, and agents reject 98 percent of them on structure and market case, not on writing quality. Read: the publishing paths »
What if the proposal doesn’t land an agent?
No honest professional promises representation, and you should walk away from anyone who does. What a professional proposal changes is the category of rejection: from unread slush to seriously considered. And every element, the market analysis, positioning, and chapter architecture, transfers directly to the self-publishing path if you pivot. Read: promises no professional makes »
Is a book proposal worth $15,000?
It is, when a traditional deal is the goal. A proposal is the entire audition, and a professional one moves you from the slush pile to serious consideration. The 2024 Business Book ROI study found most business books return the investment many times over through clients, speaking, and authority pricing. If a publishing deal is what you are after, the proposal is what earns it. Read: the business book ROI study »
Is my story worth a book?
The doubt measures against the wrong scale. The real criteria: experience specific enough that a stranger could not research it, a findable reader whose situation the book changes, and enough transformation to sustain an arc. Fame is not on the list. Read: is my story worth a book? »
How do I know you’re not one of the scams?
You should not take my word for it; verify what cannot be faked. I have 113+ books under my own name you can read tonight, 100+ podcast appearances you can listen to, named case studies including a book adopted at Purdue, and reviews attached to a checkable identity. The mills cannot produce any of that. Read: how to vet a ghostwriter »
Will you secretly use AI on my proposal?
A fair question in 2026, and it gets a written answer, not a verbal one: my AI policy goes in the contract. Your proposal is written by me, AI serves as a research and checking tool only, and your material never trains anything. Mills that generate documents and charge professional rates are exactly why you should demand this clause from anyone. Read: will my ghostwriter secretly use AI? »
The practical questions
Cost, what is included, and how it fits the publishing path.
What is a book proposal?
A book proposal is the document agents and traditional publishers require before they will consider a nonfiction book. It covers the idea, the market, the competition, your platform, and sample material. A strong proposal is what gets a book deal.
How much does a book proposal cost?
Book proposal development is a flat fee starting at $15,000, quoted for your project up front. It covers the discovery interviews, market research, positioning, sample chapters, and the full submission-ready package agents and publishers expect to see.
Do I need a book proposal to get published?
For traditional nonfiction publishing, yes. Agents and publishers decide from the proposal, not the finished book. If you are self-publishing, you do not need one, though the thinking it forces is still useful.
What is included in a book proposal?
A full proposal covers the book’s concept and positioning, the market and competing titles, your platform and audience, an annotated chapter outline, two sample chapters, a spec sheet, your author bio, a marketing plan, and a query letter. It is everything an agent or publisher needs to make a decision.
Does a strong proposal guarantee a book deal?
No proposal can guarantee a deal, but a strong one is what gets you seriously considered. Agents and publishers decide from the proposal, so a weak one ends the conversation and a strong one opens it.
Can you write the book after the proposal too?
Yes. If the proposal lands a deal, or you decide to self-publish, the ghostwriting service can write the book itself. The proposal and the book can be one continuous engagement.
Tell me about your book. I will tell you honestly whether the concept is ready for agents and what it takes to build the proposal that gets you there. No pitch.
The Guides That Get Your Book Written, Published, and Sold
Four short, practical guides on writing, publishing, and selling your book, plus the occasional note when there's something worth your time. No fluff, no daily inbox clutter. Drop your email and they're yours.
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