Member Spotlight: Elizabeth Smith

How did you land your first book ghostwriting project?

I was working in-house at a publisher when an editor realized with horror that an author’s manuscript was unpublishable. She turned to me and asked, “Can you write like [world-famous designer]?” I knew I could, and with the author’s approval, the problem was solved.

That challenge hooked me. Someone’s writing is like their fingerprint. Slipping into the celebrity’s voice—finding what made them them on the page—showed me what I wanted to do: help authors sound as good in print as they are in person.

What is your favorite type of project or client?

My favorite clients are people at a turning point—they’ve built or lived something meaningful and want to share this beyond their immediate sphere. These are the people who keep hearing, “Oh, you should write a book!”—or “When are you going to finish your book?”

They might not know exactly how to structure their book or what publishing path makes sense, but they’re clear on why their story or expertise matters. I can leverage what I’ve learned in traditional publishing, working on every stage of the book process. Whether it’s a memoir, a coffee table book, a business book, or a prescriptive guide, authors who work with me can tap into two decades’ worth of experience.

What’s your favorite question to ask clients during an interview?

I have two! “Why is this book important to you?” This hoists the North Star that will guide us through every decision. When we hit inevitable challenges, that core “why” is what keeps us going.

“What would success look like for you?” This shows how we can align on scope, audience, and impact. Each vision requires a different approach—and knowing which it will be from the start is rocket fuel for the process.

What are the best parts of this career?

The armchair adventure! I’ve been privy to the creative mysteries of film directors and the geopolitical insights of ambassadors. I’ve learned about microbiology, horse training, restorative justice, and more.

Another is the joy of creating something from what others might see as nothing. How do we turn 3,000 Post-it notes into a coherent narrative? How do we make something deeply personal also universal? These are the puzzles I love solving.

And the biggest part is helping others shine—that’s a privilege.

What’s one thing clients might be surprised to know about you?

I took up boxing just a few years ago. Boxing is like three-dimensional chess. You have to know yourself, learn about your sparring partner, and understand the sweet science of the craft. My coaches give me great advice, like “Train hard, fight easy.” In book terms: Get the structure solid, nail the research, conduct thorough interviews—and the writing flows.

Many of my clients are doing something new and brave by writing their first books. If I can step into a boxing ring, they can absolutely step onto the page with their truth.

How can people reach you?

People can reach me through my website. They can also find me on LinkedIn, where I share insights about ghostwriting, the publishing process, book coaching, developmental editing, and the art of collaboration.