Member Spotlight: Diana Ceres

How did you land your first book ghostwriting project?
On Facebook, of all places. A friend posted that her friend’s father—a former state senator and civil rights attorney—wanted help writing his memoir. I thought, I can do that. So I reached out, we turned out to be a great fit, and I landed the project.

I’ve worked in publishing for over 20 years, primarily editing, book doctoring, and coaching authors. I’d done smaller ghostwriting assignments like writing web copy, blogs, cover copy, and parts of books that authors were struggling with. But this was my first full manuscript without “training wheels.” I rolled up my sleeves and jumped in. It was such a great experience, and I’ve been ghostwriting books ever since.

What is your favorite type of project or client?
Ghostwriting is truly a collaborative process, so my favorite clients are the ones who embrace that. I’m looking for open, communicative partners who trust the creative experience and aren’t afraid to dive deep into the work.

I specialize in memoir and prescriptive nonfiction and always keep both the book and the reader at the center of every decision. People’s lives and expertise fascinate me. Helping someone transform their experiences into a compelling narrative or a prescriptive guide that helps others is incredibly rewarding.

What’s your favorite question to ask clients during an interview?
I always ask which books are similar to the one they want to write. Many people stumble over this and that’s perfectly fine. After our discovery call, I give them “homework” based on our conversation, such as comps to explore, frameworks to consider, and styles that might resonate.

When clients already know their comps, I read those books as well. It helps me understand their vision on a much deeper level. By the time we have our launch call, we’re speaking the same creative language and can shape a richer, more aligned roadmap for their book.

What are the best parts of this career?
Helping people put their stories into the world. There’s nothing like it. Every project is unique, every client brings a new perspective, and I am so grateful to be doing this work. Guiding someone through the creative process, especially when it involves vulnerability and courage, is endlessly rewarding.

What’s one thing clients might be surprised to know about you?
I believe the title is the heartbeat of every book. Once the concept is solid, we start brainstorming the title. When we land on the right one, it becomes the book’s North Star. From there, we begin weaving unique threads like pacing, themes, and structural echoes into the narrative or prescriptive framework. Those layers build quietly in the background and give the book its depth and resonance. It’s like weaving a tapestry together, thread by thread.

How can people reach you?
Website: www.the-book-alchemist.com
Email: diana@the-book-alchemist.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-ceres-ghostwriter/