Author Coaching
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.
Ghostwriting
A ghostwriter helps you say what you want to say.
Author Coaching
Too many authors start their book simply by writing, then get lost, become demoralized, and quit.
Manuscript Editing
Editing takes several forms. Book editing involves some or all of this work, depending on the shape of the manuscript.
Audiobooks
Audiobooks are now more popular than e-books and are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. market.
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.
Work With Hal
I work on a few books each year as an editor, ghostwriter, or author coach.
Avocet Books
Our imprint is Avocet Books, launched in 2023.
Who We Are
Our team is a well oiled machine consisting of masterfully honed parts.
Hal Clifford
Founder
Tom Lane
Ghostwriter, editor
Aleks Mendel
Ghostwriter, editor, author coach
Tashan Mehta
Ghostwriter, editor, author coach
David Caissie
Ghostwriter, editor
Jenny Shipley
Ghostwriter, editor, author coach
Rob Petersen
Ghostwriter, editor, author coach
Time Cooke
Ghostwriter, editor
John van der Woude
Designer
Anton Khodakovsky
Designer
Kevin Barrett Kane
Designer
Christina M. Taylor
Book Production Manager
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.
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.
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.
Vince Annable
Author of The Household Endowment Model and Your High-Performing Virtual Family Office.
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.
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