Ghostwriter / Co-Writer Needed for Literary Historical Fiction Novel (18th-Century Spain)

I'm looking for an experienced literary historical fiction ghostwriter to collaborate on the second novel in a planned two-book series. This is not a project starting from scratch. The complete story has already been developed, including the plot, characters, themes and ending. I have written approximately 50,000 words, and I'm looking for a talented writer to help expand the manuscript into a finished novel of around 110,000 words. The role is less about inventing the story and more about elevating it, adding texture, emotional depth, richer dialogue, stronger world-building, immersive historical detail and page-turning narrative momentum while remaining faithful to the established vision. I'm looking for someone who enjoys genuine creative collaboration. While the central story, philosophy and character arcs are already mapped out, you'll have considerable freedom in how scenes are expanded, secondary characters are developed and the world is brought vividly to life. The first novel is currently being published and will be available to shortlisted candidates, allowing you to fully understand the characters, themes and narrative before beginning work. About the Novel Genre: Literary Historical Fiction Setting: Spain, circa 1737, approximately thirty years after the events of Book One. The story follows Selene, a woman whose quiet wisdom, emotional resilience and unwavering independence increasingly place her at odds with the religious and political institutions of eighteenth-century Europe. Having inherited the philosophical legacy of Elira from the first novel, Selene becomes the guardian of ideas that challenge accepted beliefs about love, freedom, consciousness and truth. Without ever seeking conflict, her very existence exposes the fragility of the systems around her, attracting the attention of both Church and State. Rather than relying on conventional action, the novel builds tension through complex relationships, moral conflict, psychological depth and the gradual collision between personal freedom and institutional power. Themes include: Love and human connection Freedom and identity Religious persecution Consciousness and philosophy Truth versus dogma Memory, grief and resilience The search for meaning Although historically grounded, the novel is equally concerned with the inner lives of its characters. Atmosphere, emotional authenticity and the lived experience of eighteenth-century Spain are every bit as important as the plot. The Ideal Writer I'm looking for someone who: Has experience writing literary historical fiction Can write elegant, emotionally engaging prose Understands how to evoke the rhythm and atmosphere of the eighteenth century without sounding overly archaic Enjoys expanding existing material rather than creating entirely new plots Can naturally weave historical detail into the narrative Is confident developing dialogue, character relationships and emotional tension Can maintain a consistent narrative voice Experience with Spanish history or early modern Europe would be an advantage but isn't essential. Comparable Authors The tone and readership are similar to works by: Lauren Groff (Matrix) Emilia Hart (Weyward) Maggie O'Farrell (Hamnet) Geraldine Brooks (Year of Wonders) This project is intended for readers who appreciate immersive literary fiction, richly realised historical settings, psychologically complex characters and philosophical ideas that linger long after the final page. Budget I'm open to either an hourly arrangement or a fixed-price project, depending on your preferred way of working and level of involvement. When applying, please include: Examples of literary historical fiction you've written (published or ghostwritten, where possible) A brief description of your writing process Your availability Your preferred pricing structure (hourly or fixed fee) Why you think you'd be a good fit for this project I'm looking for someone interested in becoming a genuine creative partner in bringing this novel to its full potential, rather than simply editing prose. If that sounds like you, I'd love to hear from you.