Author Coaching

piece

Too many authors start their book simply by writing, then get lost, become demoralized, and quit.

A good author coach can prevent this.


We will set you up with an organized structure for your book so you know what you are trying to do, who you are trying to do it for, and how to do it.


Or maybe your book requires research, interviews, even travel. We can do all of it.


As you write, we’ll read your first chapter, giving you tips to keep moving forward and improve as you go.


When you are done, we’ll read your manuscript and come up with a plan for your next steps on the way to publishing a book that makes you proud.

Schedule a Call

What We Do

See our curated list of services.

headshot

Ghostwriting

A ghostwriter helps you say what you want to say.

headshot

Author Coaching

Too many authors start their book simply by writing, then get lost, become demoralized, and quit.

headshot

Manuscript Editing

Editing takes several forms. Book editing involves some or all of this work, depending on the shape of the manuscript.

headshot

Audiobooks

Audiobooks are now more popular than e-books and are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. market.

headshot

Design & Publishing

We’ll pair you with an experienced book designer who will create a cover you love—and keep working with you until you do.

headshot

Work With Hal

I work on a few books each year as an editor, ghostwriter, or author coach.

headshot

Avocet Books

Our imprint is Avocet Books, launched in 2023.

See What We Do

Who We Are

Our team is a well oiled machine consisting of masterfully honed parts.

headshot

Hal Clifford

Founder

headshot

Tom Lane

Ghostwriter, editor

headshot

Aleks Mendel

Ghostwriter, editor, author coach

headshot

Tashan Mehta

Ghostwriter, editor, author coach

headshot

David Caissie

Ghostwriter, editor

headshot

Jenny Shipley

Ghostwriter, editor, author coach

headshot

Rob Petersen

Ghostwriter, editor, author coach

headshot

Time Cooke

Ghostwriter, editor

headshot

John van der Woude

Designer

headshot

Anton Khodakovsky

Designer

headshot

Kevin Barrett Kane

Designer

headshot

Christina M. Taylor

Book Production Manager

Meet The Team

See Our Work

See how we redefine excellence.

reviewer
reviewer
reviewer
reviewer
reviewer
reviewer
See Our Work

What Authors Say

See testimonials and endorsements from bestselling authors.

My collaboration with Rob Wolf Petersen on two books was an incredibly positive experience. His ability to understand and articulate my ideas with precision cultivated a deep trust and efficient partnership. Rob's attention to detail, allied with his empathetic listening, enriched my voice and helped hone the effectiveness of my message. Rob's expertise allowed my ideas to resonate deeply with readers, He is an invaluable asset for any author seeking to leave a lasting imprint with their work.

bookbook
reviewer

Bob Glazer

Author of Performance Partnerships: The Checkered Past, Changing Present & Exciting Future of Affiliate Marketing and Elevate: Push Beyond Your Limits and Unlock Success in Yourself and Others

Hal was the exceptional editor on both Can't Hurt Me and Never Finished, and is a pleasure to work with.

bookbook
reviewer

Adam Skolnick

Ghostwriter for David Goggins, author of New York Times Bestsellers Can’t Hurt Me and Never Finished

Tom Lane has assisted me in writing two Amazon best sellers. [He] was instrumental in creating both books. His ability to grasp what we were doing and the message we wanted to convey was very professional and hit all the high points we were seeking. My recommendation to anyone who has an opportunity to work with Tom is to do it. He is professional and has the unique ability to work with you and convey your message exactly as you want.

bookbook
reviewer

Vince Annable

Author of The Household Endowment Model and Your High-Performing Virtual Family Office.

See What Authors Say

Bring your book into the world.

Whether you have an idea or a finished manuscript, we make your book the best book you can publish.

Schedule a Call
logo

© HCA Associates. All Rights Reserved.

Built by Degtyar Consulting