Chat With us
Request Free Quote
Finding the right ghostwriter can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You have a story to tell, but translating your vision into a polished manuscript requires a professional who understands your voice and can bring your ideas to life. Collins Ghostwriting is a name that frequently appears in this space, and their reviews paint a compelling picture of a service that delivers for many clients while also highlighting some important considerations.
This comprehensive article examines Collins Ghostwriting reviews, exploring what clients praise, where concerns arise, and how to make an informed decision about their services.
What Is Collins Ghostwriting?
Collins Ghostwriting is a professional ghostwriting and publishing services company based in Los Angeles, California. According to their Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile, the company was established in June 2021 and has been in business for approximately three years. The company operates as a sole proprietorship and is BBB-accredited, with additional locations in Houston, Texas.
The company specializes in a range of services including ghostwriting, book editing, book formatting, book cover design, publishing assistance, and marketing support. Their goal is to transform ideas into engaging literature across various genres, from memoirs and thrillers to self-help and children’s books.
Collins Ghostwriting Reviews: The Positive Highlights
High Ratings and Client Satisfaction
On Trustpilot, Collins Ghostwriting has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating, classified as “Excellent”. This strong rating is supported by numerous positive reviews from clients who praise the company’s professionalism and quality of work. Similarly, on REVIEWS.io, the company maintains a 4.4 average rating from 58 reviews, and on the BBB website, they hold a 4.2 out of 5-star rating from 14 customer reviews.
Voice and Vision Capture
A recurring theme in positive Collins Ghostwriting reviews is the company’s ability to capture the client’s unique voice and vision. One client shared, “The ghostwriter I worked with was an absolute professional. They understood my vision and delivered a high-quality book that felt true to my voice. The whole experience was seamless and stress-free.”
Another reviewer echoed this sentiment: “Collins Ghostwriting has done absolutely fantastic work. To my mind, they created a masterpiece out of the bones of a fairly ordinary plot.”
Professionalism and Communication
Clients frequently mention the professionalism of the team. On the BBB website, Bradford T. gave a 5-star review stating, “The level of professional service has exceeded my expectations. They guided me clearly and walked me through the process which was followed by their team effectively and made everything very predictable and smooth.”
Christopher Morris praised the team manager specifically: “Thankful to the team of writers at Collins Ghostwriting, especially the team manager. The guy was a true team leader, his name was James Adams. Such a charismatic and educated individual who was polite in every interaction.”
Writing Quality and Creativity
The quality of writing is another area where Collins Ghostwriting receives praise. A Trustpilot reviewer noted: “Their writers genuinely get my vision and have a fantastic eye for detail. They distilled the core of my thoughts into an engaging story that far surpassed my hopes.”
The company’s ability to transform simple prompts into compelling narratives is also highlighted: “Collins Ghostwriting writers transformed my prompts into a remarkable literary piece! They were extremely innovative with the stories.”
Additional Services
Beyond ghostwriting, clients also appreciate the range of services offered. One reviewer noted: “The team of ghostwriters market themselves very honestly and did an amazing job marketing my book too. The writing services are also exceptional, really thorough editing.”
The book cover design service also receives positive attention: “The book cover designed by Collins Ghostwriting is absolutely fantastic. Their creative team took my ideas and turned them into a beautiful cover that stands out.”
Customer Concerns and Critical Feedback
Mixed Experiences
While many reviews are positive, some clients have reported negative experiences that potential customers should be aware of. On Trustpilot, one reviewer described their experience as follows: “They promised professional science fiction writers are on staff. Very poor writers with very little imagination… The last conversation I had with Chris, he told me that I got what I paid for and wanted more money. Bait and switch.”
A one-star review on Trustpilot simply stated: “I can’t give less than 1 star or I would. It’s a scam. I’m so not happy. This is a scam site. Go anywhere else or if you want your money stolen give it to them!!!”
Complaints on the BBB
The Better Business Bureau profile for Collins Ghostwriting shows 9 customer complaints filed against the company. The most recent complaint, dated August 8, 2024, stated: “I hired Collins Ghostwriting to finish a novel I was writing. It was clear after a while it was a scam and I refused to give them any more money (they are demanding I do) and they are refusing to refund the money I paid. I have been asking for it back for months.” This complaint was marked as “Unanswered.”
Project Management and Marketing Concerns
A detailed review on REVIEWS.io, written after nearly two years of working with the company, provides nuanced feedback about different departments within Collins Ghostwriting:
Strengths identified:
- The Writing Team was enjoyable to work with and produced quality work
- The Website Team built an amazing website
- Robert from Customer Service provided excellent guidance
- The Publishing Team was efficient and responsive
Areas of concern:
- The Marketing Team received a 1-star rating due to lack of communication and unfulfilled promises
- The Project Manager was described as frustrating, with poor follow-up
- There were issues with cross-departmental communication, including sending wrong summaries and book edits to different teams
- Hidden fees were mentioned in connection with the website team
- Services paid for (global publishing, articles for Google and Apex) had no status updates months after purchase
Refund Policy Issues
Several reviewers have expressed frustration with the company’s refund policy. One Trustpilot reviewer claimed: “They promised me a money-back guarantee. I asked for my money back after the extremely poor quality of work written in the first chapter. They pleaded for more opportunities to make it go better and I gave them another chance. This was a mistake that I found out later after receiving news from their accountant that time has expired to get a refund.”
The Importance of Ghostwriting Agreements
When considering any ghostwriting service, including Collins Ghostwriting, understanding the contractual relationship is crucial. According to the Authors Guild Writer’s Legal Guide, clear collaboration and ghostwriting agreements are essential to protect both parties.
Key considerations for any ghostwriting agreement include:
- Ownership and control of rights in finished and unfinished works
- Editorial control over the final product
- How earnings will be shared
- Authorial credit and attribution
- Responsibility in the event of legal liability
- Dispute resolution mechanisms such as mediation and arbitration clauses
The legal guide emphasizes that “under copyright law, the moment two or more creators begin working together on a single project, they might be subjecting themselves to legal obligations to each other that they do not intend.” This highlights the importance of having a written agreement finalized at the start of any collaboration.
Pricing and Service Packages
Collins Ghostwriting does not publicly list all of its prices, which is a common practice among ghostwriting services but can make it difficult for potential clients to budget effectively. However, from client reviews and industry comparisons, we can glean some insights:
The company offers a range of services including:
- Ghostwriting
- Book editing and proofreading
- Book formatting
- Book cover design
- Marketing services
- Publishing assistance
One reviewer mentioned that the company was “affordable” and “not cheap, but not expensive either,” suggesting competitive pricing relative to industry standards. Another reviewer noted that the company provided “three books this year at a fair cost and with great devotion to quality.”
For context, comparable ghostwriting companies often charge thousands of dollars for their services. Book cover design alone can start from $499 with some competitors, while comprehensive packages including ghostwriting, editing, and publishing can cost significantly more.
Comparison: Collins Ghostwriting vs. Other Services
Industry Context
The ghostwriting industry includes many players, and it’s important to understand how Collins Ghostwriting compares. A review of Book Writing Inc., a similar service, highlighted several red flags including non-native English speakers, spam-like contact, high prices, poor refund policies, and slow turnaround times. Collins Ghostwriting appears to avoid some of these issues based on available reviews, though the concerns raised by some clients about communication and refunds are notable.
Key Differentiators
- Native English Writers: Several positive reviews emphasize the quality of writing, suggesting that Collins Ghostwriting employs capable writers.
- Range of Services: The company offers comprehensive services from writing to publishing and marketing.
- BBB Accreditation: The company is BBB-accredited, which provides a level of accountability.
- Mixed Review Profile: Like many service companies, Collins Ghostwriting has both positive and negative reviews, which is important for potential clients to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Collins Ghostwriting
Q1: Is Collins Ghostwriting a legitimate company?
A: Yes, Collins Ghostwriting appears to be a legitimate company. They are registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and have been operating since 2021. They have multiple locations in Los Angeles and Houston. However, as with any service business, there are mixed reviews, so potential clients should do their own research and proceed with caution.
Q2: What is Collins Ghostwriting’s rating on Trustpilot?
A: Collins Ghostwriting has a 4.4 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, which is classified as “Excellent.” This rating is based on reviews from verified customers who have used their services.
Q3: Does Collins Ghostwriting offer refunds?
A: The refund policy appears to be a point of contention. Some clients have reported difficulty obtaining refunds. One review mentioned being told that time had expired to get a refund after giving the company additional opportunities to correct issues. It’s recommended to clarify the refund policy in writing before signing a contract.
Q4: How much does Collins Ghostwriting cost?
A: Collins Ghostwriting does not publicly list its prices. Costs likely vary depending on the project scope, length, genre, and additional services requested. Clients have described prices as “fair” and “affordable,” but exact pricing would need to be obtained through a consultation.
Q5: What services does Collins Ghostwriting offer?
A: Collins Ghostwriting offers a comprehensive range of services including ghostwriting, editing, book formatting, cover design, publishing assistance, and marketing services. They work across various genres including memoirs, thrillers, self-help, and children’s books.
Q6: How does the ghostwriting process work?
A: Based on client reviews, the process typically involves: 1) Initial consultation to discuss your vision, 2) Writing team assignment, 3) Collaborative development of content with regular updates, 4) Review and revision cycles, and 5) Final delivery of the completed manuscript.
Q7: Are the writers at Collins Ghostwriting native English speakers?
A: Positive reviews suggest that the quality of writing is high, with clients praising the professionalism and ability to capture their voice. However, the company’s exact hiring practices are not publicly detailed.
Q8: How long does it take to complete a project?
A: Project timelines vary based on the scope and complexity. Some reviewers noted that projects were delivered on time, while others reported delays. It’s advisable to discuss timelines and milestones in detail before starting.
Q9: Does Collins Ghostwriting maintain confidentiality?
A: Like most professional ghostwriting services, Collins Ghostwriting likely maintains confidentiality agreements with clients. However, specific privacy policies would be included in the service contract.
Q10: Are there hidden fees with Collins Ghostwriting?
A: Some client feedback suggests the possibility of unexpected costs. One reviewer mentioned hidden fees associated with their website development. It’s recommended to request full transparency on all costs upfront.
Q11: How can I avoid issues when working with Collins Ghostwriting?
A: Based on client feedback, here are some tips:
- Get everything in writing: Ensure all terms, pricing, and deliverables are clearly documented
- Clarify the refund policy: Understand the terms before signing
- Set clear milestones: Define what success looks like at each stage
- Keep records: Save all communications and agreements
- Start with a smaller project: Consider testing with a smaller engagement first
Q12: What if I’m not satisfied with the writing quality?
A: Reviews suggest that Collins Ghostwriting offers revision opportunities. One client mentioned that they “requested a revision and it was done quickly.” However, if satisfaction still isn’t achieved, the refund policy may come into play, which has been a point of concern for some clients.
Q13: Is Collins Ghostwriting worth the investment?
A: Many clients say yes, praising the quality of work and professionalism. However, others have expressed dissatisfaction. The value likely depends on factors such as the project manager assigned, the team you work with, and how clearly expectations are set from the beginning.
Q14: How does Collins Ghostwriting ensure my voice is captured?
A: Multiple reviews highlight the company’s ability to capture the client’s voice. This is likely achieved through a thorough discovery process, interviews, and iterative feedback during the writing and revision stages. As one reviewer noted, “They distilled the core of my thoughts into an engaging story that felt true to my voice.”
Q15: Does Collins Ghostwriting help with publishing?
A: Yes, Collins Ghostwriting offers publishing assistance. One review noted: “James is wonderful and on top of everything. He got my electric and paper books published on Amazon and Barnes and Noble quickly.” However, as with other services, experiences vary, and careful communication is advised.
How to Choose the Right Ghostwriting Service
Based on the Collins Ghostwriting reviews and broader industry insights, here are key factors to consider when choosing a ghostwriting partner:
1. Check Multiple Review Sources
Don’t rely on a single platform. As shown in this analysis, Collins Ghostwriting has reviews across Trustpilot, the BBB, and REVIEWS.io. Each provides a slightly different perspective.
2. Understand the Contract
The Authors Guild emphasizes the importance of clear collaboration agreements. Ensure you understand:
- Ownership of the final work
- Author credit and byline
- Rights to use excerpts or derivative works
- Termination clauses
- Payment terms and refund policies
3. Start with Clear Expectations
Set specific goals, milestones, and deliverables before work begins. This is especially important when working with a company that has multiple departments, as coordination issues can arise.
4. Request a Sample
While not mentioned in reviews, many professional ghostwriters will provide a sample based on your content to demonstrate their writing style and ability to capture your voice.
5. Check for Hidden Fees
Ask specifically about all potential costs, including revisions, formatting, marketing services, and publishing fees. One Collins Ghostwriting client mentioned a $2,000 fee suddenly being requested for website issues.
6. Evaluate the Department You’ll Work With
As the detailed REVIEWS.io post shows, different departments within Collins Ghostwriting may provide different experiences. If possible, communicate directly with the team that will handle your project.
Common Ghostwriting Scams and Red Flags to Avoid
When researching ghostwriting services, including Collins Ghostwriting, be aware of these industry-wide red flags:
- Unrealistic promises: Guarantees of overnight success or “bestseller” status
- Vague pricing: Companies that won’t give a clear quote without a sales pitch
- Poor communication: Inability to explain processes clearly in English
- Pressure tactics: Urging you to sign quickly or pay upfront without time to review
- No sample work: Refusal to share examples of previous work
- Unclear refund policies: Avoiding discussion of what happens if you’re dissatisfied
Final Verdict: Is Collins Ghostwriting Right for You?
Based on the comprehensive analysis of Collins Ghostwriting reviews, the company appears to deliver quality work for many clients. Their 4.4/5 star rating on Trustpilot and BBB accreditation are positive indicators.
Pros of working with Collins Ghostwriting:
- High quality writing that captures client voice
- Professional, responsive team members
- Range of services from writing to publishing
- Competitive pricing relative to industry standards
- BBB-accredited with 3 years in business
Cons to consider:
- Some client complaints about refunds and unfinished work
- Mixed reviews of marketing and project management departments
- Potential for communication breakdowns between departments
- Hidden fees reported by some clients
Bottom Line:
Collins Ghostwriting appears to be a legitimate and capable service for many authors, particularly when working with the writing and publishing teams. However, as with any service, due diligence is essential. Get everything in writing, clarify all costs upfront, and maintain clear communication throughout your project.
If you’re considering Collins Ghostwriting, start with a smaller project or a clear, milestone-based agreement. This allows you to assess the quality of work and communication before committing to a larger engagement. For those who have had positive experiences, the company has proven to be a valuable partner in bringing stories to life.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available reviews and information as of 2024-2025. Individual experiences with Collins Ghostwriting may vary. Always conduct your own research and consider consulting legal counsel when entering into a contract for ghostwriting or publishing services.
