Better writing comes from deeper thinking

We help life-changing ideas get written and published

Every thought leader needs a book
to communicate their message

Yet they don’t know where to start.
They’re not sure how to get from their big idea to a book that will sell. 
What they need is a plan and a guide—someone who has traveled
from idea to a bestseller list before.

Our process helps you . . .

1

define
your book’s question

2

develop
your writing plan

3

determine
your publishing path

Manuscripts completed

Authors helped

NYTimes Top 5

Million books sold (and counting)

Recent Blog Posts

Read our most popular thoughts on writing, publishing, and whatever inspires us.

I knew others that
had more talent,
and a better background.
If persistence could not
do it for me,
I was doomed.
So I always listened,
and worked harder. 

—Jack Bickham

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Others had more talent…

I knew others that had more talent, and a better background. If persistence could not do it for me, I was doomed. So I always listened, and worked harder.  —Jack Bickham

read more

Don’t compare yourself
with others except
to learn from them—
compete only with yourself,
maintaining the highest
standards of excellence
with yourself.

—Rosemary Daniell

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Don’t compare yourself…

Don’t compare yourself with others except to learn from them— compete only with yourself, maintaining the highest standards of excellence with yourself. —Rosemary Daniell

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When you read early
Hemingway stories,
you’re reading very fluidly—
and when you’re finished,
you’re not sure what it means. . . .
It’s somewhat like a riddle,
so you read it again.

And that’s, I think,
what art is—
art makes us go back
to it a second or third time.
It seems as if it’s accessible,
but maybe it’s not so simple.

—Joyce Carol Oates

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Art makes you…

When you read early Hemingway stories, you’re reading very fluidly— and when you’re finished, you’re not sure what it means. . . . It’s somewhat like a riddle, so you read it again. And that’s, I think, what art is— art makes us go back to it a second or third time....

read more

What I have learned in time,
in 32 years of writing,
is that it’s a lot of work,
and if I just show up,
and I work and work,
there is a moment,
a magical moment,
at some point,
when it gives. 

—Isabel Allende

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If I just show up…

What I have learned in time, in 32 years of writing, is that it’s a lot of work, and if I just show up, and I work and work, there is a moment, a magical moment, at some point, when it gives.  —Isabel Allende

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Testimonials

Melissa and Rick are a dynamic duo that will absolutely help you produce your best work. From framing a concept into a compelling narrative, to structuring the chapters, editing, writing and supporting authors, their experience, compassion and savvy make all the difference.

Jessica Hartung

Founder, Integrated Work

As a publisher and publishing services company serving both indie authors and other trade publishers, it’s critical to find writing and editorial partners that are professional, cool under pressure, and responsive to the needs of clients. Killian Creative checks off all three of these boxes. We worked with Rick in serving a client on a tight-turn revision schedule for a novel, and he was a complete pro every step of the way, translating the client’s requests into solid prose on the page. I’m glad to work with Rick and recommend Killian Creative to others looking for professional writing and editorial services.

Matt West

Founder and CEO, Dexterity Books

Rick and Melissa are a truly dynamic team! Their combined creative writing and editing abilities are second to none. They have a unique ability to find the voice of each author and express ideas consistent with each author’s style and personality.

Ronda Ranalli

Former Director of Content and Author Relations, Destiny Image Publishers

Rick is both an accomplished writer and editor—and in the publishing world, people with both competencies are rare animals indeed. When I’m in need of a great writer or book doctor, “Killian” comes first to mind.

Kyle Duncan

Former Writer in Residence, The Fedd Agency

Working with the Killians was a joy for me. My book was so personal and to be comfortable enough with them to be open and honest with the pain in my life made this journey a successful one for me. They are professional, thorough, detailed, and most important—kind.

Staci Boyer

Founder and CEO, Motiv8n'U Personal Training & Wellness Coaching

I was a reluctant writer! Rick coached me into a love and confidence of writing that has made the whole experience enjoyable. Rick’s ability to preserve your thoughts and stories while adding an easy reading style and ordering the material to best flow for the reader is something I could not have done without him.

Jon Petersen

Founder and CEO, CityForce

All our experiences with Rick have been great. He’s easy to work with. His research is outstanding, and he masterfully incorporates it into his writing.

David Horton

Former Vice President of Editorial, Bethany House Publishers

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