Member Spotlight: Shadley Grei

How did you land your first book ghostwriting project?
Unofficially, I had a part-time job assisting a woman who was writing a book. Her husband was sick, and she asked me to write the book so she could stay on deadline but focus on caring for her husband. Officially, at the start of the pandemic, I left a full-time job in order to care for my mother, and I needed to find some flexible work. A friend introduced me to a couple looking for a ghostwriter for their business book.

What is your favorite type of project or client?
I like collaborative but decisive clients. I have worked on business books, memoirs, and screenplays, so it’s less about the project type and more about the connection with the writer. I also have a publishing company, so I’m looking for long-term relationships.

What’s your favorite question to ask clients during an interview?
“Who is one specific person you want to inspire, change, or move with your book?” Knowing that helps focus the book when decisions come up.

What are the best parts of this career?
Helping people turn a daydream into a reality. Finding ways to surprise clients with their own stories. And the flexibility of the workday.

What’s one thing clients might be surprised to know about you?
I got married on a train in Santa Fe at sunset on a Thursday.

How can people reach you?
www.greimatter.com
www.kingbirdpress.com
shadley@greimatter.com