Marcia Ford
Author, editor, and professional ghostwriter offering manuscript critiques, developmental editing, line editing, and collaborative writing for memoir, nonfiction, and select fiction in both general and Christian markets.
Marcia Ford is a seasoned ghostwriter, editor, and author with extensive experience in manuscript critique, developmental editing, line editing, and collaborative writing for both secular and faith-based books. Her portfolio includes memoir, contemporary and historical fiction, narrative nonfiction, and book proposals aimed at traditional publishers.
While her current focus includes a wide range of general-market projects (with a special interest in memoir), Marcia is also highly regarded in the Christian publishing world. A former managing editor of Christian Retailing and Ministries Today magazines and a contributor to Publishers Weekly‘s religion coverage, she is well-versed in the dynamics of faith-based publishing. For several years, she also served as Gale Publications’ Christian fiction expert. She knows the kind of books Christian publishers are looking for today and understands the dramatic changes the industry has undergone—and continues to undergo.
As a professional ghostwriter, Marcia has helped numerous clients bring their stories and ideas to life, whether through full-length book collaborations or intensive manuscript development. Her ability to capture an author’s voice and intent makes her an ideal partner for those looking to create high-quality books with clarity, depth, and commercial appeal.
Marcia’s editorial style is clear-eyed, supportive, and thorough. She blends big-picture insight with meticulous attention to detail, helping authors strengthen narrative structure, clarify their voice, and resolve inconsistencies without losing creative control. Known for her encouraging tone and practical guidance, she excels at asking the right questions, offering honest feedback with empathy, and preserving the author’s intent while elevating the work. Whether editing or ghostwriting, Marcia brings both technical precision and a deep respect for the writer’s voice and vision.
Marcia is also a traditionally published author of 30 books—some ghostwritten, some under her own name—and brings a writer’s sensibility to every editorial and ghostwriting project. She understands the vulnerability involved in sharing a manuscript and offers a blend of editorial precision and empathetic support to help authors produce their best work.
Her career began in journalism at the Asbury Park Press in 1973, where she gained hands-on experience in nearly every newsroom department over an 11-year span. This included coverage of business, education, entertainment, and hard news, with a consistent focus on religion during a period of major cultural shifts. That foundation continues to inform her work today as a versatile editor and ghostwriter.
With a sharp editorial eye, a collaborative spirit, and deep insight into both Christian and general publishing markets, Marcia Ford offers invaluable support to authors at every stage of the writing and publishing process.
