Book Proposals

from a professional writer who knows how to hook an agent

You’ve written a book and want to sell it to a major commercial publisher.

To get your foot in the door, you’ll need an effective book proposal . . .

Effective Book Proposal

Not this kind of proposal.

The Your Words Proposal Writing Process

What you can expect …

I’ll write a book proposal from your completed manuscript, and I’ll give you the names and contact information of the right literary agents for your book. I’ll also be there to lend a helping hand if you encounter a problem or need advice during the querying process.

Fees for book proposals are typically $950 to $2,000, depending on the nature of the book and its length.

A basic book proposal consists of four elements:

  • one-page query letter

  • two- to four-page synopsis of the book

  • chapter-by-chapter outline

  • one-page author’s bio

Most literary agents and commercial publishers require that you submit the query letter and brief synopsis first. If they like what they see, then they’ll ask for a more detailed chapter-by-chapter outline and sample chapters of the book or the entire manuscript.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to craft a compelling book proposal, feel free to send a query via the button to the left. Or just keep reading!

Comprehensive Nonfiction Book Proposal

If your book is nonfiction (other than memoir or autobiography), you’ll have to prepare a comprehensive book proposal. It must include a market overview with answers to these questions: Who is the target audience for your book? Why will those readers be interested in what you have to say? What other books about the topic have been published in recent years, and how will your book be different? Why do you feel that you’re qualified to write this book?

My fee for a comprehensive nonfiction book proposal can range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the topic and the length of the nonfiction book.

This type of book proposal is not required for memoirs, autobiographies, and other story-oriented nonfiction.

Comprehensive Non Fiction Book Proposal

Where can I get some of that coffee?

Questions about the next steps for your book?

Give me a call at 608-213-7594
or

 

Your Words Literary Services

Manuscript Evaluation ………. $345 

I’ll read your manuscript from first page to last and tell you what you’ve done right and what still needs work.  

Manuscript Critique ………. $24 per thousand words 

My practical, detailed suggestions will show you how to turn your manuscript into a book with solid commercial value. 

Manuscript Editing ………. $40 – $50 per thousand words 

I’ll correct the mechanical errors (spelling, grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.) and I’ll polish the prose to improve clarity and narrative flow. 

Book Proposal ………. $950 and up 

I’ll help you avoid the mistakes that can make the difference between sale and rejection. 

Major Rewrite ………. $15,000 and up 

I’ll develop a rewrite plan for your approval. Then, I’ll overhaul your manuscript from the ground up.  

Ghostwriting ………. $25,000 and up  

I’ll ghostwrite your book based on your story idea or outline.