Ghostwriters

The 8 Best Book Ghostwriters in California: A Curated Guide

In the sprawling tapestry of California’s literary scene, a hidden guild of wordsmiths thrives, shaping narratives behind the scenes with unparalleled skill and discretion. From gripping memoirs to groundbreaking business insights, their craft is the backbone of countless bestsellers, silently echoing through the halls of bookstores and libraries across the Golden State. 

As we embark on a journey to unveil the top book ghostwriters in California, we pay homage to these masters of the written word, whose expertise transforms fleeting thoughts into enduring legacies.

1. Joey Green

Joey Green, a Los Angeles-based ghostwriter and author, has penned more than 60 books for major publishers like Penguin and Simon & Schuster. His diverse writing portfolio includes a collaboration with James Patterson on “Not So Normal Norbert,” and an array of unique titles that blend humor with practical advice. Green’s background as a contributing editor to National Lampoon and an advertising copywriter for J. Walter Thompson and Walt Disney World enriches his creative approach. His work spans genres from humor to home improvement, showcasing his versatility and engaging style.

2. Alyssa Morlacci

Alyssa Morlacci is an accomplished Los Angeles-based writer, editor, and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the publishing and media industry. She boasts a rich background as a journalist, having led magazine groups and directed editorial and visual content for lifestyle publications. Her work has been featured in notable outlets such as Travel+Leisure, Insider Reviews, HERE Magazine, and LUXE Magazine, among others. Alyssa specializes in lifestyle, human interest, and profile writing, covering diverse topics from travel to arts and culture. She is also adept at creating engaging B2B and B2C marketing materials, website copy, and social media content.

3. Fred Schruers

Fred Schruers is a seasoned freelance writer and author, notable for his work “Billy Joel: The Definitive Biography.” His career boasts contributions to prestigious publications such as Rolling Stone, Premiere, and the LA Times, showcasing his expertise in film, TV, tech, and major sports. Fred’s journey includes diverse experiences, from anti-poverty efforts to working in Paris and engaging in early journalism in New Jersey. His role in co-authoring Billy Joel’s autobiography highlights his skill in crafting engaging, in-depth biographies and his enjoyment in both the research and writing phases of profile, reported pieces, and book-length projects.

4. Justin Sloan

Justin Sloan is a multi-talented writer with a vast portfolio that spans video games, novels, and screenplays, highlighting his versatility in fantasy, science fiction, and middle-grade genres. His notable game credits include “Game of Thrones” and he has a track record of over 50 novels, demonstrating his narrative prowess. With an educational background from Johns Hopkins University and UCLA, Justin brings a wealth of creative insight to his projects, alongside his unique experiences as a Muay Thai instructor and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. His work ethic and diverse skill set make him a standout in storytelling across multiple platforms.

5. Alex Cody Foster

Alex Foster is a prolific ghostwriter whose career took off after an encounter with a legendary novelist who became his mentor. His journey has included hitchhiking across the country, living with one of America’s wealthiest individuals, and sailing to Alaska. Alex has written eight #1 Amazon bestsellers and was profiled in a Top 10 Netflix film about John McAfee. His book, “The Man Who Hacked the World,” showcases his narrative prowess. Alex prides himself on his obsessive perfectionism, striving to make each project a masterpiece by capturing the client’s voice and the soul of their story with precision.

6. Andy Earle

Andy Earle is a San Francisco-based writer and researcher, specializing in areas including sales, communication, business, self-help, and parenting. He co-authored the best-selling book “Flip the Script” with Oren Klaff for Penguin Random House. Andy has contributed to over 30 other books and published numerous peer-reviewed scientific journal articles. His work aims to improve lives, utilizing his expertise in psychology and screenwriting to craft stories that simplify complex ideas in an engaging, scientifically accurate manner. Andy also hosts a podcast for parents of teenagers, sharing insights on navigating difficult conversations.

7. Nic Albert

Nic Albert, based in San Francisco, is a versatile ghostwriter and developmental editor, adept at handling a broad spectrum of topics from business to science for popular audiences. His work has appeared in prestigious publications such as Popular Science and the Financial Times, and he has collaborated with a diverse array of clients, including Fortune 500 executives and startup founders. Nic’s experience extends across various forms of media, including books, digital content, and executive communications, showcasing his ability to translate complex material into accessible narratives. His unique background even includes tuning Neil Young’s reed organ, reflecting a wide-ranging skill set.

8. Michael Coffino

Michael Coffino, with a four-decade career spanning law, business, memoir, sports, education, and spirituality, brings a wealth of experience to his writing. After retiring, he fully embraced writing, producing five books, including memoirs and sports-related works. His passion for storytelling is evident in his diverse projects, from ghostwriting memoirs to crafting articles and blogs. Michael’s dedication to capturing the essence of each story reflects his belief in the power of written expression to connect and resonate with audiences.


As we close the chapter on our exploration of California’s finest ghostwriters, remember that the right collaborator can turn your vision into a masterpiece that resonates with readers far and wide. Whether you’re at the seed of an idea or ready to polish your manuscript, these ghostwriters are your key to unlocking the full potential of your story, ensuring it finds its place in the hearts and shelves of readers around the world.