David Ferris

David Ferris – Ghostwriter

I create business books and memoirs that turn authors into leaders and earn a ROI.

Overview

I’m David—a ghostwriter, editor, and writing coach with a Big Four publishing background and an Ivy League degree. I've penned over 30 books -- including a few bestsellers -- for entrepreneurs, CEOs, artists, coaches, and visionaries of all stripes.

I specialize in creating books that make an impact by connecting with readers on an intellectual and emotional level. Books that aren't just fun to read but which achieve YOUR personal and professional goals —whether that is increasing authority, expanding opportunity, personal healing, leaving a legacy, or all of the above.

I began my career as an editor at Little, Brown and Company (part of Hachette Book Group), where I learned what makes books marketable and hard to put down. Since then I’ve helped writers at every level—from first-time authors to seasoned professionals—shape their ideas, strengthen their voice, and finish manuscripts they’re proud to put their name on.

My background in filmmaking and screenwriting has also given me skills other ghostwriters lack: the ability to tell a story, whether business, memoir, or other nonfiction, in an exciting, cinematic way.

Clients often tell me they value my clarity, collaboration, speed, and calm guidance throughout the process.

I was born in Texas in a military hospital, grew up in Maryland, and now live in Los Angeles. I spent over a decade living overseas in Europe and South America. Outside of writing, I’m usually playing piano, exploring the city, or hanging out with my wife and son.

If you’re looking for a partner to help you shape a book idea, outline it with confidence, and bring it to life in your voice, let's connect.

TESTIMONIALS FROM PAST CLIENTS

"I’m happy I partnered with end result was an authoritative, as well as entertaining, book that is popular among clients. The investment has paid for itself by attracting new clients and winning me speaking engagements. David was the right man for the job."

- Patrick Rush, CEO of Triad Financial Advisers and author of "Gain Big and Give Back"

"David was a strong collaborator on my book and had no problem handling the technical nature of the content. He had the patience to see it through at every stage of the writing and editing process until it was perfect. I am pleased I chose to work with a pro, which paid off in terms of timeliness and quality, and also helped me earn a CEO role at my current company."

- Doug Reed, author of "Start a Movement" and CEO of Meridian Associates.

"David is an outstanding ghostwriter. When it comes to memoirs, business books, or whatever you need, David will deliver an excellent product. You will love working with him."

- Michael Levin, NY Times Bestselling Author

Services
Non-Fiction
Biographies & Memoirs Business & Management Self-Help & Self-Improvement
Fiction
Literary Fiction Plays & Screenplays
Awards
  • Los Angeles Crime and Horror Film Festival - Best Horror Feature Screenplay
  • Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest - Quarterfinalist
  • PAGE International Screenwriting Competition, Second Rounder
  • Screencraft Comedy Competition, Semifinalist
Certifications
  • B.A. in Political Science, Columbia University
  • M.A. in Documentary Film Directing, LUCA School of Arts (Belgium)/Academy of Film and Drama (Hungary)

Work experience

Forbes Books

Sep, 2018 — Apr, 2022 (over 3 years)
Ghostwriter of business books for CEOs, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders in various industries.

Michael Levin Writing Company (formerly Business Ghost)

Jul, 2017 — Present
Ghostwriter of business books and memoirs.

DDF Creative LLC

Jul, 2012 — Present

Little, Brown & Company (Hachette Book Group)

Oct, 2009 — Sep, 2011 (almost 2 years)
• Read and evaluate proposals and recommend projects for acquisiton (fiction and memoir). • Collaborate with authors to develop, revise, edit, and proofread acquired manuscripts. • Liaise with design and marketing teams to shape and execute vision for new titles.

Portfolio

Book Ghostwriting
Book Ghostwriting
Book Ghostwriting
Book Ghostwriting
Book Ghostwriting
Book Ghostwriting

David has 8 reviews

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

Jose A.

Jose A.

Sep, 2025

Pinned
I cannot thank David enough for his editing and ghost writing skills. I truly believe he turned my memoir into a cinematic masterpiece in such a short amount of time.
chiala M.

chiala M.

Aug, 2024

Pinned
David provided top-notch expertise through the whole ghostwriting process, from planning to writing to editing. It was clear he took great care with the project and was eager to create a great book that met our goals. He has a strong understanding of not just how to write beautifully and tell a g...
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Cindy W.

Cindy W.

Mar, 2023

Pinned
I hired David for a developmental review. His seven page report and suggestions helped move my project toward the finish line. He responded to my communication almost immediately and has made himself available for additional help, should I need it. He was very professional and I would highly re...
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Rita B.

Rita B.

Jan, 2026

Working with David has been invaluable in bringing my book to life. He quickly adapted to my style while offering insights that strengthened the overall structure of my book. His patience through refinements never wavered. Most importantly, he truly saw my vision, CARED about it, and treated it l...
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Dana P.

Dana P.

Oct, 2025

Working with David was tremendously helpful. He took a deep dive into my story and helped me develop the characters, enhance the plot, and add key details to make the book stronger, more professional, and more appealing to readers. I look forward to future collaborations and would recommend him s...
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