Writing Coach: Your Secret Weapon to Finally Finish Your Book
Behind every great author? Often, there’s a writing coach in the background helping them turn messy drafts into polished manuscripts—and giving them the courage to actually finish.
If you're stuck, overwhelmed, or just want some experienced guidance, a writing coach might be exactly what you need.
Whether you're writing your first novel, mapping out your memoir, or working on a business-building self-help book, the right coach can help you get there faster (and with way less stress).
In this post, we'll walk through what writing coaches actually do, what to expect in terms of support and pricing, how to find the right book or writing coach for your project, and why book coaching services are a game-changer for both aspiring and established authors.
📖 What Does a Writing Coach Do?
A writing coach is part mentor, part strategist, part accountability partner. They help writers:
- Clarify their book idea
- Create structure and timelines
- Improve their craft
- Stay consistent and motivated
- Finish their draft
- Navigate editing, publishing, and launch
Unlike editors (who typically come in at the end), a book writing coach walks with you from start to finish. They help you develop your voice, shape your chapters, and ensure your message connects with your audience.
If you're wondering whether hiring a writing coach is worth it, just look at the long list of self-published authors who made it big—many of them got support early in the process to write, revise, and launch like pros.
❓ Do I Need a Writing Coach?
If you’ve ever stared at a blinking cursor and thought, “I have no idea what I’m doing,” you’re not alone—and you’re not failing. You’re just trying to write a book without a map. That’s where a writing coach comes in.
Here are some of the biggest reasons people don’t finish their books (and how a coach can help):
🧭 “I don’t know where to start.”
This is one of the most common blocks I see. You have an idea, a story, a mission—but no clue how to shape it into something that resembles a real book. A writing coach helps you go from idea to outline, turning that creative chaos into a clear plan.
🌀 “It’s all too overwhelming.”
Plot, chapters, voice, pacing, formatting, publishing… it’s A LOT. A coach breaks it down into manageable steps, so you know what to do next, every time you sit down to write. No more Googling your way through uncertainty.
✍️ “I started writing… and then I got stuck.”
You were motivated. You wrote a few chapters. Maybe even half a draft. And then? You stalled. A coach helps you figure out what’s working, what’s not, and how to move forward—with accountability, not shame.
🤔 “It doesn’t feel like a book yet. I don’t know why.”
Maybe your writing feels too casual. Or it’s too scattered. Or your message is powerful but it’s not landing. A coach brings that outside perspective to help you tighten your structure, deepen your message, and make it feel like a real book.
😬 “I’m afraid it won’t be good enough.”
Imposter syndrome? Oh yes, we know her. But here’s the truth: if you have something to say and a desire to help or inspire others, you are already worthy of writing your book. A coach helps you push through doubt, so your message doesn’t die in a notebook.
Bottom line? If you’re stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling to get from “idea” to “finished draft,” you don’t need more time—you need a path. And a coach can help you walk it.
📞 Book a free call with me to see if coaching is the right fit. Whether you’re just starting or stuck halfway through, I’d love to help you finally finish.
✨ Who Should Hire a Writing Coach?
You might benefit from a writing coach if:
- You've started and stopped your book multiple times
- You're unsure how to structure your content
- You want professional feedback (without the harsh red pen)
- You know your message matters, but you're stuck on how to say it
- You're an entrepreneur or expert writing a book to grow your business
💡Spoiler: You don’t have to be a “real writer” to work with a coach. Many of my clients are speakers, therapists, coaches, creatives, and business owners with powerful ideas—not full-time authors.
🌟 Book Coaching Services vs. Writing Courses
There are a lot of great courses out there (and I offer one, too!), but book coaching services give you personalized support.Writing a book isn’t one-size-fits-all. A coach helps you with:
- Your unique voice
- Your audience’s transformation
- Your strengths and writing style
- Your timeline and availability
It’s one thing to watch a video lesson—it’s another to get expert feedback on your actual draft.If you want a hybrid of both? My Bestseller Academy program offers structure, support, and coaching built in. Check it out here.
💸 Writing Coach Rates: What to Expect
Writing coach rates can vary widely depending on experience, niche, and what’s included.Here are a few ballpark figures:
- Hourly sessions: $100–$300/hour
- Monthly coaching packages: $750–$2,500/month
- Full manuscript coaching: $3,000–$10,000+ depending on scope
Some coaches work session-to-session. Others offer intensive packages with deadlines, feedback, and publishing support. I offer both short VIP sessions and full coaching programs for authors who want serious traction.Need help deciding?
☎️ Book a free call with me to talk through what would best support your book.
🌐 Writing Coach Online vs. In-Person
Looking for a writing coach near me? You might be surprised to learn that many of the best writing coaches work entirely online—which means you can get world-class support no matter where you live.
Online coaching sessions (Zoom, email, shared docs) offer flexibility and accessibility. You can:
- Work from anywhere
- Record your sessions
- Share live drafts for feedback
And if you really want a local coach? Search for book writing coach near me or check local writers' groups and organizations. Just know that online options often give you more variety and expertise.
📚 Novel Writing Coach vs. Nonfiction Writing Coach
Not all writing coaches do the same thing. Some specialize in fiction, others in nonfiction, and a few (like me) have experience in both.If you’re writing a novel, look for a novel writing coach who can help you with:
- Story structure and pacing
- Character development
- Dialogue and tone
If you’re writing nonfiction—especially a personal development or self-help book—you need someone who understands:
- Reader transformation
- Teaching frameworks and case studies
- What makes nonfiction engaging
I’ve coached authors in both, but my sweet spot is helping self-published nonfiction authors write books that build their brand and change lives.
👩🏻💻 Read more on How to Write a Self-Help Book
🔹 What Makes a Great Writing Coach?
Anyone can call themselves a coach, but the best writing coaches bring a blend of:
- Publishing experience
- Coaching skills (not just editing)
- Empathy and encouragement
- Accountability and structure
- A deep understanding of your genre
You deserve someone who:
- Gets your voice
- Challenges your blind spots
- Helps you make your book better, not just "done"
Ask about their past client wins, books they’ve coached, and publishing experience before you hire.
📈 Self-Published Authors Who Are Killing It
Many of today’s most successful indie authors had help getting there. Whether it was book coaching, developmental editing, or strategy support, they didn’t go it alone. Examples include:
- Ines Johnson who launched a $50K Kickstarter for her book, workbook + course combo
- Theodora Taylor, who built a thriving author brand off one nonfiction book
- Countless self-published authors who turned their books into speaking careers, coaching businesses, and media platforms
Behind the scenes? Often a writing coach (or book coach) helping guide the process.
✍️ How to Write a Book With No Experience
You don’t need an MFA, a fancy writing retreat, or a literary agent to write a great book.
You just need a clear message, a plan, and support.
Seriously. Some of the most successful self-published authors I’ve worked with had never written anything longer than an Instagram caption before starting their book.
Here’s how to write a book with no experience:
- Start with a structure. (Otherwise, hello, endless rambling.)
- Break your big idea into smaller, manageable chunks.
- Write like you talk. Clean it up later.
- Get accountability. Whether that’s a writing coach, a class, or a deadline that actually means something.
- Edit last. Trying to perfect every sentence as you go is how books end up unfinished.
The best time to start your book? Now.
The second-best time? Tomorrow—with a calendar, a plan, and a template in hand.
🎁 Download my free self-help book template if you want an easy place to begin.
🧾 Book Publishing Services: What You Really Need
So you’ve finished your draft—now what?If you’ve ever Googled “book publishing services,” you already know: it’s a Wild West out there.
There are some amazing providers. And some... not so amazing ones.
Here’s what legit book publishing support should include:
- Developmental and line editing (yes, you need both)
- Professional formatting for print and ebook
- A cover that doesn’t look like it was made in PowerPoint
- Help with uploading to KDP, IngramSpark, and wherever else you want to sell
- Distribution and metadata support so your book can actually be found
💡Pro tip: You don’t need a $10K “publishing package” from a vanity press.
You just need someone who knows what they’re doing and won’t hijack your Amazon account.
✨ I offer book coaching and publishing services for authors who want high-quality results and actually keep their royalties.
☎️ Book a free call here to chat about what you need.
🖥️ Book Writing Classes: Are They Worth It?
Short answer: Yes—if you pick the right one.
Not all book writing classes are created equal. Some are full of big ideas but no structure. Others are all structure but totally generic.The best classes help you:
- Start with a clear plan
- Write consistently (even with a day job and a life)
- Avoid major mistakes (like writing a whole book without knowing who it’s for)
- Get feedback that’s encouraging and honest
- Actually finish
Whether you’re working on a self-help book, a how-to guide, or a book that supports your coaching or business brand, structure and accountability are everything.
🎓 Want a class that helps you write your book in 30 days?
➡️ Check out Bestseller Academy — it’s built for busy people like you who want to finish their book and use it to grow.
📚 Want to Learn How to Write a Self-Help Book?
This is my happy zone. I’ve helped hundreds of authors write powerful, polished, bestselling self-help books.
If that’s your goal, a writing coach can help you:
- Nail your reader's pain point and transformation
- Build a repeatable chapter structure
- Stay motivated when imposter syndrome hits
- Publish and promote your book like a pro
Need help getting started? Download my free self-help book template or join the 30-day course.
📺 Helpful Videos From Your Writing Coach
Here are more must-see videos from your favorite book coach (ahem) if you're serious about writing a book that actually sells:
🔹 HOW TO STRUCTURE A SELF-HELP BOOK | Use the Bestselling Self-Help Outline
🔹 HOW TO WRITE A BESTSELLING SELF-HELP BOOK FOR BIG MONEY! | 7 Self-Help Book Topics Guaranteed to Make Money
🔹 HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO WRITE A SELF-HELP BOOK?
🔹 CAN ANYBODY WRITE A SELF-HELP BOOK?
🔹 HOW TO WRITE A SELF-HELP BOOK PROPOSAL THAT SELLS
🔹 HOW TO WRITE & PUBLISH A SELF-HELP BOOK FAST!
💬 Final Thoughts from Your Writing Coach
💬 “Your book could be helping people right now. But it’s sitting in a folder called ‘Someday.’”Let’s change that.
You don’t need to do this alone. And honestly? Writing a book is so much more fun (and way less stressful) when you’ve got someone in your corner.Whether you're just starting or halfway through your manuscript, the right support can change everything.Let’s get your book out of your head and into the world.
☎️ Book a free intro call to see if coaching is the right fit for you.
You’ve got this. And I’ve got you.
💖 Lisa
http://author.coach