By Kylie Howard, Editors Victoria
Liam Pieper is former journalist turned award-winning, bestselling ghostwriter and author. He has ghostwritten some 30 books, including The happiest man on Earth by Eddie Jaku. On 14 October 2025, Liam joined Editors Victoria to share tales and tips, providing valuable insights into the processes involved, expected pay rates and how to break into ghostwriting.
After publishing his own memoir in 2014, The feel-good hit of the year, Liam’s publisher asked him whether he’d be interested in ghostwriting a book. He decided to give it a go and it’s an occupation that has kept him busy ever since.
Liam compared ghostwriting to being a “stunt double” – just not one who’s (usually) credited. The process and level of involvement is unique to each author and their needs – the task can be anything from an extra editorial hand, right through to a comprehensive rewrite.
Indeed, the arts of ghostwriting and editing often overlap. Liam usually starts the process with an initial meeting with the author, which he described as a “vibe check” or “first date”. He’ll then spend anywhere between 10 and 40 hours with them. Much of this time is about learning how the author expresses themselves – “you learn how to speak in their voice”.
Liam gave his thoughts on the ethics of being a “ghost”. He sees himself as helping people deliver their stories; he’s the “brickie” who assembles the vision. He explained that some of the best storytellers can’t read. The ghostwriter’s role is to give their story the voice it deserves. In his words, these gigs are a blessing.
Liam was asked whether he has ghostwritten for women authors, and, if so, whether he was able to give their story the right voice. He said that he has and gave the example of Eileen Kramer, the dancer and author of Life keeps me dancing, who died in 2024 at the age of 110. Liam spoke warmly of his working relationship with Eileen. He explained that he felt more in common with, and better suited to deliver the voice of a centenarian, female dancer than say a hyper-masculine male sports star. (Eileen, along with Eddie Jaku, publicly credited Liam’s involvement.)
Liam was a fascinating and engaging guest. If you’d like to learn more or simply enjoy an insightful and entertaining presentation, we’d encourage you to watch the recording.