Bent over a worn, leather journal, the next great American author winces as the cold, salty breeze lashes their red cheeks. It might take ten years to publish, but no one will ever doubt their dedication. Other writers use laptops and spellcheck. Real authors suffer.

This odd belief that real authors do it all on their own is insulting at best and damaging at worst. The best-known books of all time weren’t created in a vacuum. Editors, agents, publicists, and marketers helped bring beloved classics to the shelves. Just like the use of spellcheck, it isn’t cheating to use the tools available. Many authors find book coaching to be astoundingly useful.

When a writer is feeling inspired, the words seem to flow into the keyboard. Other days, every sentence can feel like a battle. Many aspiring authors struggle to finish their first draft, and turning that draft into a publishable book can seem like a monumental task. This is where book coaching shines. These professionals guide authors throughout the entire book-writing journey. Whether you’re starting with a vague idea or have a full draft, a book coach can make the difference between a manuscript that sits in a drawer and one that sees the light of day.

A book coach offers guidance, structure, accountability, and feedback throughout the writing and publishing process. Unlike ghostwriters or traditional editors, book coaches help you develop your book while ensuring it remains your voice and vision. Book coaches give editorial feedback, support, and accountability as you write. They can help you steam-line your plot, publishing plan, and writing process.

Think of a book coach as part writing mentor, part project manager, and part cheerleader. They don’t just focus on editing the manuscript; they focus on the entire journey—idea development, structure, pacing, character arcs (for fiction), clarity of argument (for nonfiction), and keeping the writer on track to meet deadlines.

Stuck in the middle of your story? A book coach can help you plot a way forward.

Looking at pages and pages of outlines and notes, but you can’t figure out how to start your story? A book coach can guide you from concept to fruition.

Wondering if you have too many characters or if your arc is falling flat? A book coach will point out looming trouble before you spend another year floundering.

Book coaching is only helpful to new writers. Seasoned authors, experienced journalists transitioning to books, and even doctors, scientists, and other licensed experts can benefit from coaching. Ask yourself:

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to consider a book coach.

Many writers struggle with consistency. A book coach provides a structured plan and regular check-ins, which helps writers keep moving forward. This accountability can make the difference between finishing a manuscript and abandoning it halfway.

Unlike beta readers or friends, a book coach gives detailed, professional feedback tailored to your goals. They know what works in your genre, what agents look for, and how to capitalize on trends. A beta reader can tell you if your opening chapter is boring. A book coach can tell you how to fix it.

Many novels are over a 100,000 words. Even a mid-grade book, like Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, averages between 30-80,000 words. While nonfiction books can vary, their word count is nothing to sneeze at. Writing a book is a massive project. A book coach will help break it down into manageable parts, guiding you from brainstorming through drafts, revisions, and sometimes even the publishing process.

Writing can be lonely. How many times have you watched your best friend’s eyes glaze over when you try to talk about your characters? It can be difficult to find someone willing to discuss a story they’ve never read and offer useful, actionable advice. A book coach is there to let you talk. Think of them as a plot-therapist and a cheerleader rolled into one. This emotional support can be crucial, especially when imposter syndrome strikes.

Many times, a book coach is also a publishing professional or former agent/editor. They understand market trends, how to write query letters or proposals, and how to position your book for success.

When looking for help, be aware that a book coach may have many alternative titles. Book consultant, publishing consultant, author guide, and book sherpa are just a few of the interchangeable positions. The function is the same: help writers as they write.

While each coach has their own methods, most book coaching relationships follow a general pattern.

You can contact a book coach at any stage in the writing process. Whether you’re outlining or lost in a draft, book coaches are here to help. You can find a book coach on websites such as Reedsy and Twisted Pine Publishing. Many book coaches advertise on social media or run their own freelance websites.

In the consultation, you’ll discuss your goals, writing background, and challenges. This is also your chance to ask about their experience, specialties, and method of feedback. Not every book coach will fit your personality and writing goals, so don’t be afraid to ask hard questions.

A book coach is not an editor. There’s no need to polish your story before you send it off. A book coach works 1-on-1 with authors. Every author faces unique challenges, so there is no template for success. Book coaches read your notes, drafts, or summary, then sit down with you to create an action plan.

The book coach will help you define your goals. Do you want to self-publish? Land a traditional publishing deal? Write a memoir? Launch an informative book to support your growing business? Based on your goals, you’ll set milestones and a timeline.

Depending on your agreement, you and your book coach may meet weekly, biweekly, or monthly. These sessions typically involve submitting pages in advance and receiving in-depth feedback on the writing, structure, and clarity. Most book coaches also leave in-depth annotations on your submitted pages, so you can see advice in action.

As your manuscript evolves, your book coach will identify areas that need revision, suggest improvements, and guide you through rewrites. They might also provide tools like scene maps, character sheets, or chapter outlines.

For writers seeking to traditionally publish, a book coach can assist with writing query letters, book proposals, and synopses. Some also advise on self-publishing strategies, including hiring editors, cover designers, and formatting professionals.

Writing isn’t a one size fits all process. Authors of all genres and experience levels find book coaches immensely helpful, while others prefer to have a developmental editor look over a completed manuscript. If you’re feeling stuck or lost, schedule a free consultation with one of our seasoned book coaches.

There are many experienced professionals, but not every book coach will be right for you. Before you commit your time and money, be sure to do your research.

Look for coaches with experience in your genre and a track record of helping writers succeed. While freelance platforms, such as Fiverr and Uptime, can often put you into contact with book coaches, you will be better off checking author specific platforms for qualified professionals. The Editorial Freelancer’s Association (EFA) and Reedsy are two platforms that take pride in only accepting experienced freelancers. A successful book coach may also have their own website, which often include rates, services, and other important information.

Some coaches are nurturing and gentle; others are more direct and strategic. How do you respond to criticism? Do you prefer quick and blunt or candy-coated honesty?

Your book coach should also have a deep understanding of your manuscript’s genre. A coach with deep knowledge of historical romance might not be the best fit for a nutrition book, and vice versa.

During the consultation, pay attention to how the book coach communicates and the frequency with which they expect to give feedback. Be sure their schedule aligns with your expectations.

It’s important to distinguish book coaching from other writing services:

• Developmental editors focus on revising a completed manuscript. Book coaching can include this but the process starts earlier.
• Ghostwriters do the writing for you. Coaches help you write your own book.
• Writing courses are useful for learning skills but lack the one-on-one personalization of coaching.
• Beta readers provide general reader feedback, not professional guidance.

A book coach is a financial investment, but many writers find it invaluable. Prices vary depending on the coach’s experience, your project’s scope, and the duration of support. Monthly packages can range from $300 to over $2,000. Those serious about publishing or developing their craft usually find the result well worth the money. If you are struggling to make progress, book coaching may be right for you.

Book coaching is for committed writers. Whether you’re aiming to get traditionally published, self-publish a passion project, or simply want to finish a book that matters to you, a book coach can provide the support, structure, and strategy you need.

Your story deserves to be told. With the right guide by your side, you can finally move from “I want to write a book” to “I wrote a book.”