FAQs

How do I start the process?

Can we have in-person sessions?

Remote sessions often work just as well (sometimes better!). These usually take place via Zoom, but they can also be conducted on the phone. We can sometimes consider in-person sessions; these will incur an additional charge if your location is outside of Bristol. We can discuss this during our introductory call.

Is my story worth telling?

100%! We firmly believe that everyone has a story worth telling.

I’m nervous about sharing my story. Can you reassure me?

Of course. It’s totally normal to feel apprehensive. When we have the introductory chat, we can discuss this and also address any concerns you may have. We have worked with clients who have experienced a wide range of issues including domestic abuse, depression, anxiety, bereavement, drug and alcohol addiction, refugee status, homelessness and PTSD. Our approach is a gentle one. We are never forceful or probing. This is your time and your story, and we need to work in a way that feels right for you. We will always take our cue from you.

Who owns the copyright?

The copyright remains with us until you have paid in full. The copyright then passes to you and remains with you.

Can I arrange my own printing?

Of course. We can agree this at the outset, and we will deduct the printing costs from the total project fee.

Can I order extra books or request books with a bespoke finish?

Yes. We will need to agree these changes with the designers and printers, and agree/settle any extra costs.

What are your payment terms?

We take a third of the full project fee after we have agreed to work together, a third on approval of the draft outline and sample chapter, and the final third on approval of the book draft. Other payment plans can be discussed and agreed.

Are there any cheaper options?

You can provide us with a draft manuscript, and we can work with you to polish and improve it. This work can be charged hourly, and we can provide a quote after reviewing your material.

Some clients crowdfund for the costs of their book. We can’t advise on crowdfunding processes, but this could be worth pursuing.

We can also offer a text-only service, and we’ll deduct the design/printing costs from the fee.

We can occasionally offer reduced rates for clients in financial difficulty. Do contact us if you wish to discuss this.

Who will be my writer?

Rosia (our founder) will be your writer, unless she doesn’t have capacity. If that is the case, she has other trusted writers that she works with, all of whom have considerable experience in this field. We can discuss all of this when we speak, and we will make sure that you are happy with your writer.

You can find out more about Rosia here: https://www.rosiacurtis.co.uk/about

Do you use AI?

We do not use AI to generate books outlines or book drafts. AI is only ever used to transcribe interviews and to generate book title ideas. We will always be fully upfront about our use of AI.

What if I’m not happy with it?

You will be. We will agree on the style and tone of the book. You will then assess the draft outline and sample chapter; if you feel that adjustments are needed to the tone/structure, we will make these changes when we write the full draft. You will be able to make one round of edits when the draft is complete, and you will also be able to approve the book proof before it goes to print. Each draft will also be professionally proofread.

I have a book project in mind, but it’s not a biography or memorial book? Can you help?

We have also worked on other types of books. Get in touch to discuss your idea!

Can you help me self-publish?

This isn’t something that we currently offer, but we hope to be able to offer guidance on this in the future!